MEDIATION SERVICES

Standard custody mediation generally centers around the parents' preferences and attempts to reach agreements primarily between them, though with consideration of the child’s best interests.  

Avoiding the adversarial nature of court helps individuals and families manage stress more effectively and preserves a sense of dignity and mutual respect.

Practical Focus: Standard mediation focuses on creating a parenting agreement within the legal framework, prioritizing fair division of time and responsibilities between parents. 

Role of the Mediator: The mediator focuses on facilitating discussions and negotiations between the parents, with no direct input from the child.

Impact on Parenting Plans: In standard mediation, parenting plans are crafted primarily by the parents with the mediator’s guidance and may not fully incorporate the child’s specific wishes.

Emotional Support and Developmental Considerations: Standard mediation, on the other hand, does not usually involve direct child participation, considering parents' perspectives about their child’s well-being.

Long-Term Benefits: Standard mediation keeps the focus on reaching an agreement between the parents rather than involving the child in the dispute.  Standard mediation keeps the focus on creating a plan that serves the children's best interests, which contributes to more stable and supportive co-parenting relationships.

This approach often streamlines the negotiation process by centering on logistical matters such as scheduling, decision-making authority, and financial responsibilities, helping parents reach a resolution more quickly.

Child-led custody mediation differs from standard custody mediation by focusing directly on the child's perspectives, needs, and feelings, integrating these insights into the mediation process.

Child-Centered Focus: In child-led mediation, the child’s voice is central. Trained mediators create an environment where children feel comfortable expressing their views on parenting arrangements, family dynamics, and personal needs.

Role of the Mediator: The mediator in child-led sessions acts as an advocate for the child's voice, ensuring that the child's views are appropriately relayed and respected during discussions. This approach emphasizes empathy and understanding the child’s perspective. 

Impact on Parenting Plans: Parenting plans developed in child-led mediation are often more tailored to fit the child’s unique needs, as the child has a direct say in arrangements like visitation, routines, and communication preferences. This personalization can improve compliance and satisfaction, as children feel more valued and respected. 

Emotional Support and Developmental Considerations: Child-led mediation places an emphasis on the child’s emotional development and mental health. Mediators trained in child-led methods often use age-appropriate techniques to help children articulate their feelings in a safe, non-coercive way. 

Long-Term Benefits: Children who participate in child-led mediation are more likely to feel empowered and validated, which can lead to better adjustment post-divorce. This method can also foster healthier family dynamics over time, as it encourages parents to prioritize the child’s expressed needs. 

Child-led mediation is ideal for families seeking a more holistic, child-focused approach where their child's voice can be heard and centered.  This service is most appropriate for families with older children (age 10+).