A mediator is crucial to the mediation process.  A mediator is a neutral facilitator who helps participants resolve disputes amicably and effectively.  Unlike a judge or arbitrator, a mediator does not make decisions for participants, but instead, guides the participants in reaching their own mutually acceptable agreement.

A primary role of a mediator is to facilitate open and constructive communication between the participants.  A mediator should create a safe and respectful environment where the participants can freely express their concerns and viewpoints, which often helps clarify misunderstandings and identify common ground between the participants. A mediator should help the participants have a civil dialogue about the topics that need resolution.

Importantly, a mediator must remain neutral.  A mediator does not take sides or show favoritism.  This neutral stance helps ensure that a mediator is trustworthy and hopefully helps all participants feel heard and respected, which is vital for effective negotiation and resolution.

Although a mediator does not make decisions for participants, a mediator can help frame disagreements in a way that promotes problem-solving. A mediator should help the participants explore potential solutions and weigh the pros and cons of each.  A mediator should guide the discussion to focus on the interests and needs involved, rather than positions.  A mediator can then help the participants create more satisfactory outcomes.

A mediator should structure and manage the mediation process, set the agenda, and establish ground rules.  A mediator is there to keep the discussions on track, ensuring that the process remains productive and that time is managed effectively and efficiently.  Further, even though a mediator is not a counselor or therapist in the mediation process, a mediator often times acknowledges that emotions can run high and the participants may be frustrated and distressed.  A mediator may talk through the source of the emotions in order to foster reduced tension during the process, which may ultimately lead to an agreement created by the participants.

In summary, a mediator’s role is to guide, support, and facilitate the mediation process.  A mediator maintains an neutral role in the process to help participants reach mutually acceptable resolutions.  Please contact Ann at 317-732-8585 or ann@thrashermediation.com if you have questions about a mediator’s role or other aspects of mediation.