http://www.facebook.com/pages/CFR-Mediation/271140287576
A standard offering of all of our mediation services is “coaching” by a CFR Mediation Coordinator. This is more commonly referred to as “conflict coaching”.
CFR Mediation Coordinators have a minimum of a masters degree in a behavioral health field. They are not providing therapy or counseling, but are providing coaching to facilitate the success of every CFR mediation as needed.
Coaching focuses on addressing the emotions that can act as a barrier to successful resolution. For example:
Sarah and Peter are divorcing. Getting to this decision has been difficult and although both partners agree, the hurt feelings linger and their communication seems to have ground to a halt. Sarah is so fearful of incurring Peter’s disapproval, she avoids telling him about plans she makes for the children. She hates having to explain things later, but at least she avoids the confrontation as long as possible.
Unfortunately poor communication breeds poor communication – and can have a negative impact on mediation. CFR Mediation Coordinators work to empower participants to advocate for themselves and communicate in a manner that avoids triggering old problematic patterns of communication.
Sarah worked with the CFR Mediation Coordinator to address her apprehension about sharing plans and co-parenting with Peter. They planned a strategy that allowed Sarah to advise Peter of her plans without triggering the emotional response she found so upsetting. The coaching was brief and targeted – focusing solely on issues related to mediation and creating a co-parenting plan.
In addition, CFR Mediation Coordinators can assist in connecting to outside services if needed. By having qualified behavioral health experts available to intervene if needed, CFR is able to ensure that client needs are met and mediator neutrality is not affected.
Not everyone chooses to access CFR coaching services, and they are never forced on a person. However, for those who choose to access the coaching – services are available and part of the mediation package.
Additional Reading:
- Role of Emotions in Conflict
- Communication Tip: Avoid Personal Attacks
- Barriers to Engagement in Mediation
- Wanting To Hurt
Related Posts:
Tags: CFR, child custody, coaching, Communication, conflict coaching, divorce, Divorce Mediation, emotions, Mediation, Mediation Coordinator, Parenting, parenting plan
