The Mediator Training
Interested in becoming a volunteer mediator? Get involved today by attending Introduction to Mediation Training in one of two mediator training formats:
- The 30-hours classroom/role play – Prepares you to use conflict resolution skills in the workplace and community. You will receive a certificate for completing the 30-hours training, but will not be qualified to be a mediator.
- The 40-hours training includes the 30-hour classroom instruction and 10-hours of observation and co-mediating. After completion of the 40-hours, you are qualified to serve as a mediator.
You will receive a certificate of award for completing 40-hours training, qualifying you as a mediator. Volunteering with MMC and other agencies will increase your mediation skills. The more you mediate, the better you become at the process and the practice. We recommend individuals continue to volunteer as mediators until they are comfortable with the process.
Midlands Mediation Center provides “The Introduction to Mediation Training” course three times a year. The class is open to 10-20 individuals and is well-suited for business, non-profit, human service, human resources, and law enforcement professionals. Training is available for a fee of $1,000 per individual or $495 for individuals with a desire to volunteer after the completion of the training. We also provide scholarship for individuals who desire to mediate in their local community. To register for training, please visit our “Event” page.
MMC’s goal is to offer three sessions per year, depending on the number of trainees registered. A minimum of 10 trainees is required to hold training. Generally, the course schedule is winter (December-January), Spring (March-April), and fall (September-October). The Spring classes are usually scheduled for Saturdays to accommodate individuals unable to take off during the week for the course. In 2021, we are considering an evening session. The specific dates and times are on the website’s “Event’ page.
An MMC volunteer mediator’s volunteer application is available for individuals interested in volunteering with MMC. Please complete a Volunteer Mediator Application with a resume and relevant certifications attached.
Disclaimer: This training is not a certification in mediation and does not provide an expectation of employment from mediation.
Mediator Qualifications
MMC mediators meet eligibility requirements for the type of mediation they provide. Civil Mediators provide mediation in civil court, i. e., Magistrate Court, community, employee, landlord-tenant, and other disputes, after they complete the MMC Introduction to Mediation 40-hour training.
MMC has experienced volunteer family attorneys and other professionals supporting Family Mediation. Many volunteering attorneys have their private law practice, and some are private family mediators. Regardless of profession, all family mediators have completed Family Mediation Training. Mediators may have additional training or certifications in their field of expertise.
MMC mediators enjoy the satisfaction of guiding parties in conflict to a mutually agreed-upon solution. They are passionate about mediation and seek opportunities to help individuals, families, and the community.