When should I use mediation?

Of course, I do not recommend mediation for all conflicts. Most of the time we don’t need support to clarify misunderstandings, to resolve differences, to tolerate differences and to stay in conversation with each other. Or the decision of a superior or the advice of a colleague or friend helps. However, if this remains unsuccessful and the conflict becomes a psychological, emotional or financial burden, it may be worthwhile to call in a mediator as a neutral third party: My guidance of the conversation and my presence then help to bring everything important to the table, to disentangle feelings, to think of already existing resources, and thus to keep the person in focus and to simultaneously work towards solutions.

How does a mediation work?

A mediation is a guided conversation. First, I offer a free 20-30 minute preliminary meeting during which we clarify the parameters. In the mediation sessions themselves, which take place e.g. in a weekly rhythm, I make sure that the perspectives of everybody get heard equally, that we focus on what is essential and that in the end we find clarity and solutions which fit the conflict parties and their specific case. If it is beneficial to the process, I use a complementary conflict management method that helps to reflect, interrupts the conflict logic or creates space for new ideas.

Is mediation always successful?

Mediation has a very good chance of success, but I cannot promise that it will always lead to the desired quality of a relationship and to simple solutions. The crux of the matter is this: Solutions to a conflict be mandated, for example by a court of law; however, the solutions are especially satisfactory and sustainable if the parties agree on them themselves. This is the crucial idea behind mediation. And if we then find in the process that we cannot resolve all the contentious points, we can at least work on some of them and prepare you for how you want to deal with your conflict in the future.

How much is a mediation?

Mediation is available at a fixed hourly rate, which I am happy to tell you on the phone. Of course, the total price also depends on the duration of the process, but this cannot be determined at the beginning of a mediation. What is certain, however, is that you retain full cost control. If you feel like you have progressed far enough, you are free to end the mediation at any point.

How long does mediation take?

Many, but not all conflicts can be successfully resolved in two to five sessions, with one session lasting an hour and a half. Conflicts involving multiple people, such as work teams, often take one to three days to resolve, with sessions of half or full days. I would be happy to consider with you how we can integrate the mediation into existing formats or change processes. I make the process as efficient as possible, but it may happen that certain issues take more time.

Do you have another question? Feel free to contact me by phone or email.