Defining Mediation
This program is presented in workshop format as a 40-hour program over five weeks. Learning derives from lectures, group discussions, hands-on activities, and mock mediation exercises. The course culminates with the presentation of a 鈥淐ertificate of Mediation鈥� issued by 番茄社区 in recognition of successful course completion.
- This training fulfills the requirements for mediator credentialing in Texas, meeting the standards outlined in Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 154, and may also satisfy foundational criteria for mediation in other states.
- Meets the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association (TMCA) training criteria, enabling you to apply for a credential upon course completion.
This course will cover the basic principles and concepts of Mediation:
- Defining mediation
- Federal and state recognition of mediation
- History of mediation
- Understanding the role of a mediator
- Understanding the dynamics of conflict
- Differing definitions of neutrality
- Understanding confidentiality
- Communication skills in mediation
- Ethics required of mediators
Mediation promotes personal empowerment and prepares people in conflict with opportunities to resolve their conflict.
Intra- and Inter-Personal Skills and Development Training:
- Conflict Management
- Neurology and Conflict
- Dynamics of Conflict
- Effective Conflict Communications
- Building Trust
- Leadership Development
- Team Development
- Understanding Working Styles
- Understanding Conflict Management Styles
- Interest-Based Problem-Solving
- Mediation Methodologies and Skill Sets
This course is designed for and benefits everyone interested in reducing personal and/or group stress, resolving conflict, and constructively engaging others in dealing with, rather than avoiding or escalating conflict.
Virtually anyone can benefit from learning conflict-prepared skills in an ever-increasing conflict-prone world; however, Mediator training would especially advantage those serving in professional career paths such as:
- Legal Profession
- Education
- Law Enforcement
- Public Administration
- Human Resources
- Union Leaders
- Organizational Management
- Business Leaders
Emerging Career:
Mediator
Background
The career outlook for mediators is strong, especially in the state of Texas. Texas ranks for total number of mediators employed. Nationally, mediator positions are expected to grow by . In Texas, mediator positions are forecasted to grow , triple the national projection.
Industries
Mediators work in a variety of industries including: government, non-profits, education, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and finance.
Marketable Skills
- Use mediation techniques to facilitate communication between disputants, to further parties' understanding of different perspectives, and to guide parties toward mutual agreement.
- Confer with disputants to clarify issues, identify underlying concerns, and develop an understanding of their respective needs and interests.
- Conduct initial meetings with disputants to outline the arbitration process, settle procedural matters, such as fees, or determine details, such as witness numbers or time requirements.
- Apply relevant laws, regulations, policies, or precedents to reach conclusions.
- Conduct hearings to obtain information or evidence relative to disposition of claims.
Program Schedule
The Mediator Certificate Program is delivered virtually over five weeks for a total of 40 hours. Learning derives from lectures, group discussions, hands-on activities, and mock mediation exercises.
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Introduction to Mediation, Tools, & Styles
In this session you will learn the challenges in dispute resolution, an overview of the mediation process, the power of self-awareness, and sources of conflict.
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Stages of Mediation
Review of the entire 7 stages of the mediation process: planning, mediator鈥檚 opening statement, client鈥檚 initial statement, agenda building, negotiations, caucus (optional), and agreement/closure.
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Practice and Implementation
Participate in mock mediation exercises.
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Final Review and Wrap-Up
Final review and wrap-up.
Meet the Instructor
Nancy Boyle
Nancy is the managing partner of Forward Mediation庐, Conflict Rescue庐, and Ask a Mediator庐, serving communities throughout Texas and New Mexico. She is a member of the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association, the TX Chapter of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and is an Approved Trainer through the Texas Mediator Training Roundtable.
As a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator [Texas Mediator Credentialing Association] and a Certified Advanced Practitioner [Academy of Professional Family Mediators], Nancy is best known for her ability to supportively and efficiently help parties keep their conversation moving forward towards a resolution they can live with. She draws on years of high-quality mediation and facilitation experience to ensure thoroughness when handling the most difficult and contentious cases.
July 10 - 19, 2026
Fridays, 5:30-9:30pm CST
Saturdays, 7:30am-4:30pm CST
Sundays, 7:30am-4:30pm CST
Virtual Classroom
Discounts available for 番茄社区 Paralegal Program Alumni.
Students should bring a tablet, laptop, notebook, or other note-taking means.