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 [...]

Recently, I saw an inspirational quote about life experience that I would like to share with you.  Eleanor Hibbert, an American Author, said “I never regret. It it’s good, it’s wonderful. It it’s bad, it’s experience.”  What a great way to view life.  Everyday we make decisions about hundreds of issues, etc. How we look [...]

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 [...]

“A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” Lao-Tze, Chinese Philosopher
When you’re going through a divorce, it may feel like a thousand miles until you reach your new destination – a life of peace and renewed hope.  It can feel like that point in your life will never come.  It can [...]