Family mediation is a voluntary process where parties work with a neutral third party to resolve issues related to parenting, separation, and/or divorce. The approach is non-adversarial in nature, recognizing that high conflict disputes are damaging and hurtful, especially to children caught in the middle. Rather, the mediator helps facilitate effective communication in a neutral environment where creative problem-solving can take place. The mediator’s role is to assist parties in creating agreements that respect their family’s unique needs. The mediator does not take sides, nor does she/he make decisions for the parties.