Culture has a huge impact on conflict in family relationships.  In my work with couples and families, I have seen issues of culture play a large role in how parties interact and communicate. 
Within a marriage context, culture can often divide a couple when it comes to issues of extended family.  Many cultures expect the oldest [...]

Occasionally, I will meet with a couple in a mediation consultation who are undecided about the fate of their marriage.  Usually, one of the parties is not sure they want to end the marriage.  While the other person may think they want to divorce, there may be some doubt in their mind as well.  They [...]

“Attitudes are more important than facts.”  Norman Vincent Peale
Our thoughts about an event, our current situation, another person, our work, etc. have an incredible impact on our lives.  What happens to us is one thing.  How we react to it is another.  When you are going through a difficult time such as divorce, you may [...]

I am often asked how I can work with people in conflict and remain calm and neutral.  How do I listen to angry, upset, frustrated people all day and find fulfillment in my work?  How do I have the patience to deal with other people’s conflicts?  Many people have told me they wouldn’t want my [...]

Many people confuse mediation and arbitration.  I heard a very interesting story about the two processes at the annual conference of the Association for Conflict Resolution last year.  The keynote speaker related an incident that happened to him on an airplane.  Two people began to squabble about the overhead bin space.  The flight attendant tried [...]

Did you know that when you hire attorneys and go to court you give up your voice in the divorce process?  The attorneys and the judge will now make most of the decisions for you.  You lose your power to be part of the process and make your wants, needs, and concerns known to the [...]

“Nothing in life is to be feared.  It is only to be understood.”  Marie Curie
When you are going through a divorce, one of the strongest emotions is fear. Fear of the process, fear of the unknown, and fear of the future are common feelings that surface.  How do you overcome your fears and move forward?
It [...]

Did you know that the average time to go through a divorce process in litigation is two years?  If you go to court for hearings and then a family law trial, it could be even longer.  You become dependent on the court’s schedule as well as your attorneys’ schedule.  Divorce cases have been known to [...]

“The world breaks everyone and afterwards many are strong at the broken places.”  Ernest Hemingway
Going through a separation and divorce can make you feel like you are broken.  If you go through the court system, you will be emotionally and financially drained.  You may resent the decisions that are made for you by your attorney [...]

“Always believe in yourselves as parents.  You are the best your children have.”   Anonymous
How can you be there for your children when your world is turned upside down by divorce/separation?  How can you co-parent effectively when you’re emotionally drained by the divorce process?
Divorce is a very difficult time that shakes you to the core.  Going [...]