With the technology available today, any part of the Mediation process can be conducted virtually or in person. Some mediations may be better served in person or online and best options can be explored.

After interested clients contact Harmonia Mediation Services, an initial intake interview is conducted to determine whether Mediation is a suitable resource for the dispute in question. Once the Mediator takes on the case, a Pre-Mediation takes place between the Mediator and each party individually – during this conversation the Mediator is learning more from each party about the dispute and understanding what topics need to be discussed. The Mediator also takes this time to prepare each party for what to expect in the Mediation and to have the parties begin thinking about what they need to be heard and understood on and how to express those thoughts, concerns and needs. The next step is the Mediation, where the Mediator and all parties involved sit down together and take a deep dive into the issues brought forward. Each step of the Mediation process can be conducted virtually or in person and the best approach can be determined on a case by case basis.

Mediation is an entirely confidential process. The mediator is bound by confidentiality guidelines and a discussion will take place in the beginning of the mediation where each party will identify who they feel the context and/or outcome of the mediation needs to be shared with, the mediation will not continue until all parties are in agreement. 

A mediator takes and maintains a neutral position throughout the entire mediation process, their job is not to take sides, pass judgment or make decisions for the parties. The Mediator is present to help facilitate a civil, productive conversation, assist parties in both listening to understanding different perspectives and expressing underlying needs and concerns and to guide the process of drafting an agreement.