Are there different types or styles of mediation?
Yes, skilled mediators are trained in and apply different styles of mediation. Ask and consider the style that best suits the circumstances, situation, case, issues and personalities involved. The most common styles are: 1. Facilitative Mediation. The goal of facilitative mediation is to facilitate negotiations and communications between parties and to guide the parties so that they may reach amicable and mutual solutions to their disputes. 2. Evaluative Mediation. In evaluative mediation, the mediator uses his/her experience, education, training and knowledge and provides the parties with an assessment and oftentimes a recommendation as to an appropriate resolution. 3. “Muscle” Mediation. In “muscle” mediation, the mediator uses his/her stature, position and experience to persuade, cajole, recommend and urge parties to resolve their disputes by accepting a proposed or recommended settlement proposal. 4. Transformative Mediation. In transformative mediation, the emphasis is to restore,
