Mediator Tips
The Importance of Practice

Just like riding a bike or learning to swim, mediating takes practice. Some may take to it more quickly than others, but always it requires that one continually keep in shape. That is one reason the Virginia Judicial System requires that mediators be recertified every couple of years, and thus why the Center offers recertification classes on various topics.

The best way to get practice is to try reframing, summarizing, etc. in everyday life. When talking to a friend, instead of trying to think of something to say in response to what they are saying, practice summarizing what they said and how they feel. Use the transformative approach. Thus, if a friend is talking about a run in he or she had with their old barber, say something like "So, I hear that you are happy because you got to connect with someone who you had lost touch with."

Mediation is a fascinating topic with many different aspects and avenues for learning. It is worth studying these avenues and keeping them in practice. You will be a better mediator because of it.