What does your training cover?
We emphasize mediation skills. You will have many opportunities to learn mediation skills, see them in action, and then practice them yourself in role playing scenarios. You will receive constructive feedback and encouragement in how to develop and use your own strengths.
What is unique about your divorce mediation training?
DMTA has been training divorce mediators since 1989. We help you realize the potential of your own background and skills.
How does your training help me become a mediator?
This 5-day training accelerates your entry into the mediation field. You will receive a divorce mediation manual which will be quite useful as you evolve your own mediation practice. We provide suggestions and guidance in what to do after the training. In addition we include a list of hundreds of people who have already taken this training.
Can I take part of the course now and part at a later date?
Individual training groups are small. Members develop a deep sense of trust and cohesion that supports a level of participation and learning far beyond a more casual grouping. However, we recognize that life sometimes require your presence, and we allow for make-up dates.
Is there a need or market for more divorce mediators?
Yes. Assuming that one third of the approximately 21,000 couples who divorce each year in Massachusetts have a desire to reach an agreement in a cooperative and inexpensive manner, you have potentially 7,000 couples looking for you.
Will I be certified after this training?
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts does not regulate or certify mediators in any way. You could be a mediator tomorrow if you wanted. There are no requirements. However, by statute (MGL c 233 sections 23C) you cannot offer confidentiality to your clients until you meet three tests:
- You have a signed agreement with your clients (a Mediation Contract);
- You have at least 30 hours of mediation training;
- You belong to a dispute resolution organization, such as the statewide Massahusetts Council on Family Mediation(MCFM) or the national Academy of Professional Family Mediators (APFM).
Will I be eligible to receive court-referred mediations?
By court rule (SJC Uniform Rules of Dispute Resolution), you can receive mediations from the court if you are part of a Massachusetts court-approved program.
What makes a good divorce mediator?
Here are some ideas:
- You were born a good listener.
- You are a good problem solver.
- You can see both sides of an issue.
- You can be patient.
- You are not afraid of dealing with emotions.
- You can explain issues clearly.
- You are a fair person who wants a fair resolution.
- You get further training such as our DMTA program.
You can then add mediation to your repertoire and build a mediation practice.