Oftentimes issues arise after a divorce is final.  They could be issues about child and/or spousal support, child custody, parenting timeshare, co-parenting, and other financial issues.  Should a couple run to the nearest family law attorney and file court papers?  Is there another option? 
Sitting down with a mediator provides the parties with a less expensive, less [...]

About three weeks ago, a new TV show debuted on the USA Network.  It takes place in San Francisco and chronicles the daily life of a mediator.  Who does she encounter and how does she help them?  The show depicts the mediator intervening whenever conflict arises, but is it accurate? 
As you can imagine, mediators are [...]

“When you’re frightened don’t sit still, keep on doing something.  The act of doing will give you back your courage.”  Grace Ogot
Are you paralyzed with fear about the end of your marriage?  Are you feeling completely overwhelmed at the thought of divorce?  Are you fearful about your future and your children’s future? 
These are all very [...]

“Every tomorrow has two handles.  You can take hold of the handle of anxiety or the handle of enthusiasm.  Upon your choice so will be the day.”  Anonymous
I am convinced that our thoughts create our reality.  How we think about the upcoming day becomes the day.  If we are filled with anxiety and fear for [...]

How does mediation transform your life?  What can your life look like after mediation? 
If there is conflict in your life, you know the emotional and financial pain you are experiencing.  Whether it is a failed marriage, difficulty with a business partner or vendor, or fighting among your siblings about the care of an aging parent, [...]

“We are so often caught up in our destination that we forget to appreciate the journey, especially the goodness of the people we meet on the way.  Appreciation is a wonderful feeling, don’t overlook it.”  Anonymous
It is so important to remember the power of gratitude.  Being grateful lightens your spirit and brightens your day.  You [...]

As I reflect on the New Year, I am making many important decisions about the direction of my mediation practice.  One of them is to get back to my blog.  When I went on vacation in August of last year, I took a break from my blog, e-mail, office, etc.  However, when I came back [...]

How do couples end their marriages and divide their households during these difficult economic times?  I have encountered numerous couples in this last year who have been faced with the daunting task of splitting the household pot of money into two to set up their separate households. 
This has always been difficult for couples to do [...]

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 [...]