Resolving the Causes of Conflict
Mediation is a voluntary process. It is collaborative rather than adversarial. Parties are free to make their own decisions as they are guided through the process. Our approach allows participants to address damaged relationships and reach a mutually agreeable resolution of substantive issues with the assistance of an impartial mediator. An important Conflict to Peace distinctive is our use of a male/female team of mediators, in marital cases and in any other case involving both men and women. We encourage parties to identify and deal with root causes of conflict as an essential element in reaching a lasting resolution of their conflict as well as reducing the potential for future conflicts. Our process begins with the mediators meeting separately with each party to understand each party’s perspective of the circumstances, and continues through coaching (in potentially multiple coaching sessions) and homework to help them uncover root causes, identify their own contributions, and prepare to productively move toward reconciliation and resolution. We encourage each party to accept his or her responsibility for the problem and for its solution. After this preparation there is much better potential for productive engagement as we begin joint sessions. During this joint phase there is opportunity for additional coaching as we guide parties towards peace with each other and the outcome.