Mediation training should give students the opportunity to practice their new skills with others.
The process of becoming a family mediator requires a combination of formal post-secondary education and related experience. Many people interested in psychology, family law, or law enforcement want to become family mediators. This type of work can be demanding and rewarding. The burnout rate is quite low when compared to that of social workers or lawyers who practice family law.
A family mediator must be well trained to defuse emotional situations.
The first step to becoming a family mediator is to complete a minimum degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Many fully trained attorneys switch to family mediation after 10 to 14 years of practice. This work primarily focuses on helping families overcome differences, come together, and face adversity as a unit. This is a much better alternative to the combative nature of family law.
Mediation helps families overcome differences, come together, and face adversity as a unit.
Experience that may be helpful when trying to make this career transition includes career counseling, discussion facilitation, team building, and conflict management. All of these roles require excellent listening and communication skills. The ability to encourage people to speak up and train them in active listening is an important part of becoming a family mediator.
The attrition rate for a family mediator is quite low.
Many people who want to become family mediators find that personal experience with family matters is all they need. However, this is not the case. A professional mediator must be able to provide objective assistance to the family, following an accepted methodology. Some people turn to their religious leader for family mediation, drawing on their extensive counseling training to help solve problems.
Some states have licensing requirements for anyone who wants to become a family mediator. He or she must complete a specific training program, mediate under the supervision of a trained family mediator, and attend a psychological evaluation. There are often annual educational requirements to maintain this license, ensuring that all mediators are actively learning and keeping their skills current.
There are several different job opportunities for a family mediator, including a position with a family counseling agency, a mediation center, or a government agency. Many divorce attorneys actively refer clients to family mediation centers as a first step in resolving their problems. Some states and countries have already changed family court laws to make meditation mandatory for certain types of family problems or disputes.
Many family mediators have their own professional counselor whom they trust. The confidential nature of the work prevents the mediator from releasing stress when he discusses his day with family and friends. Talking with a professional counselor can be a way for a family mediator to release pressure and stay focused.