Couples use a neutral third person - typically a mediator - to resolve ongoing disputes and work through issues. The focus is on relationship dynamics, emphasizing cooperation and understanding. 

• Focuses on the relationship dynamics rather than adversarial outcomes. It aims to improve trust, strengthen communication and develop mutual understanding while identifying what is important to you to resolve.

• Marital mediation is designed to work through marital issues whether facing separation or reconciliation, while supporting the integrity of the relationship. It aims to improve trust, strengthen communication and develop mutual understanding. Couples focus on the underlying relationship dynamics rather than disputing individual positions. 

This approach emphasizes:

• Identifying and shifting unhelpful interaction styles.

• Encouraging recognition of unmet emotional needs that contribute to conflict.

• Fostering mutual empathy to that each partner can better understand the other's perspectives.

• Collaborative problem solving to strengthen the couple's bond, regardless of whether the goal is to repair the marriage or manage a respectful separation.

• Treats the marital relationship as an interconnected system where both partners' behaviors and emotions influence the overall dynamic, aiming to heal and rebuild trust rather than assign blame.

Domestic mediation is a conflict resolution process used to help individuals within a household or family resolve disputes in a constructive, non-adversarial way. As the neutral person, I facilitate communication, help clarify issues, and guide participants toward mutually acceptable agreements as decided by the participants. The goal is to promote cooperation, reduce conflict, and maintain or improve relationships within the family unit.

Domestic Mediation is not a service covered by insurance.

As an associate of Baltimore Mediation and in conjunction with Louise Phipps Senft, Esq, I work with the couple in a way that centers on preserving or improving the quality of the relationship even as it ends. I see the separation as an opportunity to redefine rather than sever the relationship. I do this through prioritizing emotional and relational health, focusing on long-term interactions, transforming HOW the parties handle conflict and interrupting ineffective communication patterns, tailoring agreements based on the parties needs, and helping the parties build resilience for a good post-divorce relationship. By working through conflicts and feelings during mediation, the couple feels better equipped to move forward maintaining independent lives while preserving positive aspects the relationship has brought. With mutual understanding, there are better outcomes for all involved.