Mediators Without Borders® 

Mediation and conflict resolution offer a welcome alternative to the traditional legal system, with real solutions negotiated more cost effectively and in less time.

In mediation, a neutral third party works with both sides of a dispute to reach an agreement based on their own terms. Given the opportunity and the means to craft solutions to their own problems, many people find the process to be empowering, and hostile measures traditionally pursued unnecessary.

Mediation is used in virtually all disputes, from disagreements between governments to child custody conflicts. As more people choose mediation and conflict resolution to settle their differences, there is an increasing need for skilled mediators. This core training is a first step to acquiring the knowledge, values, and skills necessary to mediate and resolve conflict effectively. Chief executive officer of Mediators Without Borders®, Shauna M. Ries, teaches us to:

• Adapt mediator neutrality, impartiality, and ethical standards
• Apply effective communication and relationship skills in negotiations
• Understand the significance of power, gender, and culture in mediation
• Identify hidden interests in conflict
• Facilitate the resolution of conflict and reach agreement
• Apply advanced dispute resolution skills for conflict situations

Professionals and others wishing to build negotiation skills, including mental health professionals and coaches, are welcome. Upon completion of this conflict resolution training, participants receive a certificate in mediation from Mediators Without Borders.

Shauna M. Ries, LCSW, MFT, is a certified mediator and alternative dispute resolution specialist, lecturer, and educator. She is chief executive officer of Mediators Without Borders and IADR Global. She is coauthor of Quality of Life. mediatorswithoutborders.com