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Helping Parents Approach Mediation with Clarity, Confidence, and a Child-Focused Mindset

Mediation is an important opportunity for parents to resolve custody and parenting issues outside of the courtroom. Preparing for mediation with the right guidance can make a significant difference—both in the outcome and in your ability to advocate for your child’s needs. As a child psychologist with expertise in family dynamics and co-parenting, I offer focused mediation preparation to help parents approach the process with clarity, emotional readiness, and a child-centered perspective.

Mediation preparation is a supportive, structured process that helps parents get ready to participate effectively in a custody or parenting-time mediation. While the mediator is a neutral third party, preparation gives you a chance to explore your goals, anticipate challenges, and think through how to communicate in ways that reduce conflict and prioritize your child’s well-being.

This service is not legal advice, but rather psychological and practical guidance to help you approach the process constructively.

Mediation preparation can be especially useful if you:

• Feel anxious or overwhelmed about the mediation process
• Want to better understand your child’s emotional needs in the context of co-parenting
• Are unsure how to express your concerns in a calm, productive way
• Want help staying focused on what matters most—your child’s best interests

Whether you're preparing for a court-ordered mediation or a voluntary process, thoughtful preparation can help you participate more effectively.

Mediation preparation typically involves:

• Reviewing common topics discussed in custody mediation
• Clarifying your parenting goals and concerns
• Learning strategies for effective communication and conflict management
• Exploring your child’s developmental and emotional needs
• Identifying potential compromises and realistic expectations

These sessions are confidential, supportive, and tailored to your unique family situation

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Emotions often run high during custody discussions, but preparation can help shift the focus away from conflict and toward cooperation. My role is to support you in showing up as the best version of yourself—clear, composed, and child-focused—so you can help build a plan that works for everyone, especially your child.