For those interested in becoming a professional mediator, earning a mediation certificate can be the first step in playing an active role in the mediation process. However, many budding mediators may not understand what being a certified mediator means for their careers or how to access the mediation field. Others may wish to complete mediation skills training, but they have no idea where to start when it comes to programs. Other professionals may feel that they need to attend law school to become a mediator.
This article will outline the mediation training that can be found in a mediation certificate program and how this type of program can be beneficial in a conflict resolution practice. Although conflict is a common aspect of daily life, after completion of a course, a mediator will have the techniques to resolve conflict in the workplace or within the community.
The Certificate Program
Before a mediator can begin a certificate program, they must understand what the program will provide and what to expect from it. To complete a training program, a student does not need to complete law school or even have knowledge about the law, although it could be helpful. Each course will have a unique spin on the practice, such as a specialization in workplace conflict or certification with a national association.
However, the core elements of the certificate program will be the same. The course should teach participants the skills necessary to thrive in mediation and conflict resolution. Participants will also often learn about the ethics of mediation and how to prepare for and resolve ethical dilemmas. Many courses will also help prepare their students for the business aspects of running a mediation practice, ensuring that students are prepared to create winning marketing strategies. Finally, at the end of the program, the students will be certified mediators, which often helps parties choose to have them mediate their disputes in the future.
The Benefits of Mediation Skills Training for Dispute Resolution
Certificate programs can be expensive and time-consuming, so it is important to understand the benefits of becoming a certified mediator. Some benefits of mediation certification include:
- Training: One of the biggest motivators for programs is the ability to complete a large amount of mediation skills training in a condensed setting and time frame. This allows certified mediators to gain the necessary mediation skills and techniques to start their practice quickly and advance their practice. The bulk of these courses will be understanding and perfecting the mediation process.
- Membership: A perk of many of the programs is access to a national association or other organizations. Through membership, mediators have access to engage with clients and contact other mediators when they have questions. The communication between mediators at courses can set up a lifetime of referrals and contacts.
- Lessens Litigation: Mediation is a way for the parties to explore their dispute and facilitate a resolution. This helps lessen the burden on the court system and allows the necessary litigation to happen. Because it allows people exposure to alternative dispute resolution, it can also be helpful to encourage further participation, such as arbitration, if no resolution is found in mediation.
- Ethics: One of the main aspects of a mediation certification course is an ethics course or class. This means that a mediator who has completed a course understands the ethical implications of mediation and will ensure that a dispute is resolved ethically and effectively.
There are many other benefits to mediation training, but understanding these benefits will help illustrate why education and these courses are so important.
The Top Five Things Professional Mediators Look for in a Certificate Program
Because mediation is a popular dispute-resolution technique, many ADR programs have begun to provide mediation certification and training. When you are starting the process of identifying the right program for you, it can be helpful to have a list of considerations that can help narrow down the field and choose the program best suited to your needs.
- Skills and Interest: Not all programs are created equal, and many of them will be tailored to fit a certain type of professional. Some courses will focus on family law, while others will be more of a generalist program. Others will offer training for new mediators, but some may require a level of mediation skills that a newcomer may not have. Some programs may also train professionals to handle arbitration as well. Evaluating your skills and interests may help facilitate learning and engagement.
- Professionals: The people that create and lead the coursework for a program are just as important as the course and skills themselves. Learning mediation from a professional with knowledge and expertise will help students to feel confident in their training. Exploring courses with professionals at the top of the mediation world can help identify the best training program.
- Location: Another important consideration is the location of the course. Many schools and universities will offer both on-campus and online options for students to explore. Making sure that a course is within a reasonable distance for you is key. It can also be beneficial to go to a local program if accessible because the networking benefits with local mediators may help you grow your practice. However, online programs offer accessibility that can be difficult to ignore.
- Tuition: Most certification programs will require tuition or an investment in the course, and some of these will be higher costs than others, especially when attached to a school or university. Some may offer financial aid to participants who are unable to pay for the cost upfront, but understanding the cost and the options is an important consideration.
- Time: The final consideration is the time commitment that a course will take to complete. Some programs will be full-time for a week and then it is over, while others will be self-guided and can be finished at your leisure. Understanding how a program will fit into your schedule and how much time is required is vital to choosing the right program.
Choosing to obtain a certificate is a big step in the process of becoming a mediator, and finding the right training program to fulfill the needs of any professional can be difficult. However, when a party keeps these tips in mind, they can identify and contact the right organizations for their education.
Next Steps to Beginning Your Conflict Resolution Journey
If you are hoping to begin your journey to resolving disputes, identifying a possible training program can be the first step in dispute resolution. If you are looking for an online option with fantastic professionals, please click here.
Mark holds a Ph.D. in Leadership (Alliant's Marshall Goldsmith School of Management), an MBA in Finance (Pepperdine’s Graziadio School of Business), a Master's in Dispute Resolution (Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law) and a BSc in Urban Planning (Cal Poly Pomona).
[email protected]
- Average Settlement Offers During Mediation - March 12, 2024
- What is Business Litigation? - March 8, 2024
- Solve vs. Resolve: What’s the Difference? - February 7, 2024