Mediation can be a challenging process ~ and this is particularly true of Family Mediation, where feelings are often frayed, and there is little trust to speak of. Separation frequently brings the most raw of emotions to the surface, and tempers have a tendency to flare when difficult subjects need to be addressed.

Family Mediation is a process during which conversations about challenging subjects are encouraged and importantly, in this context, they take place in a moderated, structured setting that permits a respectful dialogue, giving each side an opportunity to say their piece. Whether a mediation takes place in a single session or over the course of multiple meetings, the process can be draining and sometimes it may feel like no progress at all is being made.

How a mediation unfolds, in other words how it happens in practical terms, depends on a whole host of factors including the level of conflict/tension between the mediating parties. These days, many mediations are conducted virtually (and I offer that option too) ~ the parties and the mediator connect through their devices using platforms like Zoom. The comments about caucusing that follow are relevant to both mediations taking place in physical premises and those that are virtual.