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Mediation

Dispute Mediation

ADR Options mediators are trained, experienced neutral professionals who provide a safe, productive atmosphere in which to discuss difficult, complex, highly emotional issues.  Our mediators provide parties in dispute the opportunity and framework to understand each other, expand choices and generate effective solutions. ADR Options maintains a high rate of successful dispute resolution because we are highly skilled at facilitating all steps of the process, from beginning discussions with the parties during intake to the final settlement. 

We have a range of mediation styles and match them to suit the needs and expectations of the parties.  For instance, needs and expectations may differ greatly among parties who are having interpersonal or behavioral problems, and parties who are disputing legal, program or policy issues.  While all of our mediations are based on the proven principles of interest-based dispute resolution -- that is, effective problem solving that resolves conflict by fostering communication, identifying the true issues, and addressing the real needs of the parties to create durable, mutually satisfactory outcomes -- very different mediator skills, ranging from  “gentle guidance” to a more directive approach, can be the key to successful resolution versus failure.  ADR Options is comprised of a diverse group of highly qualified professionals who offer decades of experience in law, government, labor-management relations, public policy, organization development and a host of specific subject matter areas, to meet the needs of most disputing parties.

Mediation usually progresses through these stages:

• Establishing ground rules—At the outset, the mediator will ensure that all parties have a clear understanding of the purpose of mediation, their roles, and how the mediation will proceed. The ground rules, to which each party must agree, are designed to provide an orderly, fair, and productive dispute resolution process.
  
  
• Exploring perspectives and determining the issues—During this phase, the parties will each have the opportunity to present their perspective on the matter that brought them to mediation.  The mediator will help the parties to clarify and identify all issues that need resolution by asking questions, facilitating discussions, holding private meetings with each side if necessary and being responsible for maintaining a constructive atmosphere.
  
  
• Generating options and problem solving—During this phase, the parties each will brainstorm ways in which to meet both parties' needs, uncovering new ideas and beginning to refine possible solutions.
  
  
• Agreement writing and closure—The mediator will help the parties put agreements in writing and will work to ensure that the agreements are realistic and will be durable.  The mediator also works to help the parties gain a sense of closure and determine next steps, whether or not an agreement is reached. 

Our mediators have extensive experience dealing with specialized conflict situations. For example, ADR Options provessionals frequently deal with workplace issues such as discrimination, conduct and discipline, and communication among and between different layers of an organization, which gives us the ability to help craft the best possible solutions for all involved. Our training and experience in family mediation will help parties move forward when it is especially important to maintain an ongoing relationship, or when there are difficult emotions involved.

40-Hour Mediation Skills Training

ADR Options offers a comprehensive 40-hour mediator training program designed to teach participants the skills necessary to conduct mediations within their organization or as a part of their professional practice. Participants learn the principles of interest-based dispute resolution, the steps involved in the mediation process, and the communication and organizational skills that will qualify them to serve as neutrals. Our 40-hour training program can be tailored to the particular needs of an organization's conflict management program, and adapted for various types of conflict resolution, including legal disputes, labor-management and workplace issues, or public policy matters such as siting, zoning, or funding allocation.

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