family mediation.
Trauma-Informed Family Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where a skilled, neutral mediator helps family members navigate difficult conversations, understand each other’s perspectives, and find solutions to resolve conflicts. The goal is to help families reach agreements that are in the best interest of everyone involved, especially children, while supporting healing and reducing further trauma.
Talia, as a trauma-informed mediator, creates a safe, supportive space for each family member to express their thoughts and feelings. She approaches each situation with empathy, understanding, and respect, acknowledging the impact that past experiences may have on current dynamics. Talia focuses on resolving issues efficiently and compassionately, ensuring that the process is fair, cost-effective, and minimizes any emotional or psychological harm. She works to reduce conflict, promote healthy communication, and strengthen the family’s ability to work together positively in the future.
Talia practices both family mediation, and child-inclusive family mediation. Child inclusive family mediation is family mediation augmented by a dedicated professional connecting with the child(ren) and then expressing their point of view to the family members and Talia throughout the mediation process.
get started.
steps to family mediation
Please note that Talia practices solely in a shuttle format when it comes to mediation. She does not at any time have family members in the same room (in-person or virtually). There is no reason that family members who are in the midst of conflict need be in the same room across from one another to build a functional plan to move forward from that conflict.
Consultation (free)
A family member may reach out to Talia at any time to discuss potentially working together. Consultations are not sessions where all details of the family’s circumstances are shared. They are brief explanations of what the family member is experiencing and what they would like assistance to resolve. Consultations are also where a family member can see if Talia would be a good fit to support their family and visa versa.
Agreement to Mediate (one time $299 administrative fee per family member)
Each family member signs an Agreement to Mediate. This Agreement initiates the mediation process, and details the expectations of all involved. Once in place, all conversations that are had with Talia will be in a closed mediation format, and part of the close mediation process with her.
Intake Session (1 hour per session, $199 per hour per family member)
Each family member has a virtual/online intake session with Talia where she gains insight into the family’s circumstances and history. During this session, family members are welcome to freely disclose and discuss what they feel necessary. The intake session discussions and disclosure are not shared with other family members.
Pre-mediation Sessions (1 hour per session, $199 per hour per family member)
Talia may request pre-mediation sessions prior to the mediation session(s). Pre-mediation sessions allow for the family members to prepare for mediation by understanding how to put forward proposals, how to navigate their own emotions, and where to gain support when necessary. If pre-mediation sessions are requested they are mandatory of both parties.
Mediation (2-4 hours per day, $299 per hour total)
Talia conducts family mediation solely in the shuttle format. This means that family members are never in the same room as one another, and she will go back and forth between the rooms to facilitate the conversations that need to occur. She does not conduct mediation that is longer than four (4) hours per day, and every two (2) hours at minimum, the family members will have a short break.
Mediation Summary Report (one time $199 fee per family member)
A Mediation Summary Report provides only the agreements that were reached in the closed mediation. This means that there will be no other commentary about what was discussed in the mediation, family member’s thoughts or preferences etc. Once received, the family members take the Mediation Summary Report for independent legal advice. Following independent legal advice, the family members can solidify the agreements formally. This is most commonly done by a consent order via court.
trauma-informed mediation.
Simply put, separation/divorce and/or court involvement is a traumatic experience. Family members experience trauma in uniquely personal ways. Talia works with each family member to ensure that they are supported, heard, and empowered throughout the mediation process.
Trauma-informed family mediation is a specialized form of conflict dispute resolution that takes into account the impact of trauma on individuals' behaviors, emotions, and interactions. The process focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where family members can address their issues in a way that acknowledges and minimizes the potential for re-traumatization. Here’s how it typically works:
Understanding Trauma
The mediator is trained to recognize how trauma—whether from abuse, neglect, loss, mental health challenges, or other adverse experiences—can affect a person's responses in conflict situations. Trauma may lead to heightened emotions, a strong fight-or-flight response, difficulties with trust, or a tendency to avoid conflict altogether. In a family setting, this can manifest in various ways, such as intense anger, withdrawal, or difficulty communicating.
Creating a Safe Environment
A trauma-informed mediator ensures the space is safe for all participants. This involves setting clear boundaries, making sure everyone has a voice, and establishing ground rules that prioritize respect, confidentiality, and sensitivity to each person's emotional state. The mediator may also help participants feel empowered by giving them a sense of control over the process. This can help to mitigate feelings of helplessness or vulnerability that may stem from past trauma.
Pacing and Flexibility
The mediator is attuned to the emotional pace of the family members involved. If a particular topic is too triggering, they might slow down the conversation, give individuals space, or allow time for deep breathing or grounding techniques. This ensures that participants aren’t overwhelmed or retraumatized by the mediation process. Flexibility in the process allows the mediator to adjust the session to accommodate emotional needs without rushing the resolution.
Empowerment and Choice
A trauma-informed approach prioritizes empowering participants to make their own decisions and solutions. This is particularly important for individuals who may have experienced powerlessness due to past trauma. The mediator may use open-ended questions, offer options, and encourage collaborative decision-making, all while ensuring that participants feel in control of the outcomes.
Post-Mediation Support
Sometimes, after the mediation session, additional support or referrals to trauma-informed therapy, counseling, or other resources may be recommended. This ensures that family members have the tools they need to heal and cope with the emotions that arise from conflict resolution. Post-mediation follow-ups or check-ins may also be arranged to ensure the agreements are being honored and to offer further support if needed.
Clear Communication
Trauma-informed mediation fosters clear, non-confrontational communication between family members. Mediators help participants express their feelings and needs without escalating conflict. They can assist in reframing negative language or behaviors in a more neutral or constructive way, which helps keep discussions productive and minimizes emotional reactivity.