Mediation offered to cultivate and strengthen traditional ways

By Roxana Colman-Herak, DHRD

PABLO - The Department of Human Resource Development (DHRD) recently changed Department Heads and amidst the changes, DHRD staff would like to extend their appreciation, gratitude and support to Teresa Wall-McDonald whose daily presence will be missed by all. They would like to welcome and extend their support to Arlene Templar who is officially DHRD's Social Service Department Head. There will no doubt be challenges and obstacles ahead and as a department, we are looking at ways to improve and better address and serve the growing needs of families here.

Conflicts occur at every level, in every organization and within each individual desiring to communicate and be understood. The need for families to express and feel connected continues to breakdown. We are utilizing mediation as an avenue to help families begin to resolve conflicts with the help of trained mediators.

Conflicts arise when parties have differing views or opinions. For whatever the reasons, pride, self-preservation, fear, blame, doubt, guilt or shame, parties find themselves caught in a maze of conflicting messages, signals and beliefs.

When communications break down, confusion sets in and drugs and alcohol are often sought in an effort to numb the emotions and feelings that so desire to be heard and understood. Mediation between disputing parties can only work if it is voluntary, not mandated. The mediator will work with all the parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Mediation is as much about the parties feeling resolved as much as it is the problem being settled.

When should mediation be considered?
Mediation is an option if a dispute has been ongoing or you are thinking about taking your dispute to court.
*If the dispute is upsetting and affecting daily life
*If you cannot afford the time and costs involved with litigation
*If you wish to speak to the other party so they may hear your concerns.
*If you would like to resolve the dispute without a third party judgment.

What is the mediator's role?
The mediator's role is to facilitate communication between the parties. Mediators do not advise, take sides or render judgment. Mediators do not decide who is right or wrong, but help parties reach their own agreements by creating constructive space for jointly examining underlying interests (needs, hope, fear, frustration, concerns).

Who is the mediator?
Mediators are certified and trained professionals from diverse backgrounds including:
*Attorneys
*Social Workers
*Community Member
*Human Resources Specialists
*Therapists
*Executives
*Ministers
*Consultants

What are the qualifications of the mediator?
Mediators must participate in rigorous skills training and pass a series of performance based situations before they are able to mediate.

How long does mediation take?
The length of mediation is determined by how much time is needed to work through the issues. Additional mediation sessions may be necessary.

Where do mediations take place?
Mediation locations are typically determined by who is scheduling the mediation session. Once a mediation session is needed to work through the issues. Additional mediation sessions may be necessary.

Who participates in mediation?
Participants in mediation are the parties involved in a dispute or conflict.

Mediators keep a record of the session?
Mediators may take notes to assist in keeping track of issues and agreements reached by the parties in conflict. Parties may request a copy of the signed agreements reached by the parties during a mediation session.

How to schedule a mediation session
You may contact Roxana Colman-Herak, Beverly Swaney or Arlene Templar (888) 835-8766 or (406) 675-2700 if you would like more information about mediation