Every family encounters some degree of conflict. Our innate differences, generational viewpoints, life experiences and personal belief systems all contribute to the potential for disagreement. In many cases, these disagreements represent a “bump in the road.” Unfortunately, some conflicts intensify to a point that can damage relationships. Family Mediation is especially helpful under these circumstances.
“Mediation offers a safe environment for communication with a structures process to promote a behavioral change from within the family members, as well as an opportunity to ‘think outside of the box’ in terms of looking at creative problem solving and resolutions.” – Susan Petryshyn, Director of Conflict Resolution Systems in Canada
The strength of mediation lies in its problem-solving, practical approach to the issues at hand. The mediation process enables individuals to better understand and listen to what the other person is saying. A mediator acts as a neutral third party assisting family members in validating their individual interests and needs. In Family and Blended-Family Mediation, this promotes understanding and often helps family members set aside their differences and focus on fashioning effective agreements.
The following issues represent areas that may be addressed in Mediation:
- Sharing Household Responsibilities
- Discipline and Parenting Plans
- Managing Sibling and Step-Sibling Rivalry
- Blended Family and Step-Parenting Issues
- Recurring Conflict with In-laws or Extended Family
- Family Income, Savings and Financial Obligations
When considering Family Mediation involving children and teenagers, you should verify that the mediator has completed a Juvenile Mediation program approved by the G.O.D.R. (Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution). Olive Branch Mediation only uses mediators who have completed the required training necessary to assist families in these areas.
Olive Branch Mediation is dedicated to serving our clients with a facilitative approach. We believe in the value of developing open communication between family members and helping individuals recognize each other's perspective. Mediation empowers individuals to generate their own solutions. Consequently, mediation can help to preserve and strengthen family relationships.
For additional information regarding the services of Olive Branch Mediation, please do not hesitate to contact us.
