Efficiency:
You work through conflict in a cost-effective way, putting the children’s needs as a priority, in a way that minimizes your pain. Don doesn’t want to drag it out any more than you do.
Quality of the Experience:
Don is a therapist-mediator. What that means is that he has worked with many couples since 1989 who were struggling with staying married, getting divorced, unsure and having a hard time communicating. He works with them to build relationships and improve communication so that no matter the outcome, they can be at the very least be civil, tactful and move forward. He continues to help clients navigate this process and develop positive co-parenting, when needed.
Mediation is not counseling and his goal would be to help you come up with a plan that is the best possible outcome for both of you.
He helps you talk your situation through in a way that each person is respected and no one has the upper hand or an unfair advantage. Couples feel respected, heard and understood- which ultimately prevents many conflicts from escalating. If the couple has a disagreement, there are ground rules that help it stay respectful. There are also ways to come back from a disagreement so as to not derail the gains made.
Additionally, Don has taught Conflict Resolution to many different audiences over the years, using the best research available. Don also has several CDs to help with anger management and letting go.
Skills/ Future Oriented:
You will walk away with new or improved tools to continue good listening and tactful communication, resources to help you on your journey.
He will, however, encourage you to take responsibility for your life.
His primary purpose is to facilitate your voluntary agreement, not provide professional advice, no promises and not make guarantees of results.