Mediation Services
Dr. Lorri Yasenik provides a range of family mediation services to clients interested in alternative ways to solving family problems. Dr. Yasenik specializes in a Child-Centered Mediation Model for Separating and Divorcing Families (see Child-Centered Mediation Agreement pdf download at the bottom of this page).
Why Mediate?
- Separating and divorcing couples have the opportunity to control the decisions that affect their lives
- Children and family members benefit from decreased conflict
- Mediation is less costly than litigation
- Communication and cooperation is promoted by mediation
- Mediation facilitates effective negotiation
- Mediated agreements are often met with more compliance
- Family matters– in separation and in family business - are resolved without the divisiveness created by court systems. Families must continue to function with some contact due to kinship ties.
Family Mediation
Family mediation is a process in which a third party (trained mediator) assists separating couples, families, and family businesses to develop solutions to a variety of presenting issues. The mediation process can enhance cooperation and communication which facilitates the development of personalized oral and/or written agreements.
Mediators
Mediators are professionals with specific training in mediation who come from a variety of backgrounds such as law, social work, psychology and conflict resolution. In the province of Alberta, those with extensive experience and training have a Registered Family Mediator designation with the Alberta Family Mediation Society.
Common Issues Addressed By Family Mediation:
- Divorce and Separation
- Mediation Reports
- Family Business Plans
- Multi-party family issues
- Adult children of aging parents (planning)
- Adoption
- Parenting Plans, property, financial
Mediators have expertise in developmentally sensitive parenting plans where infants and young children are involved.
Pre-Mediation Sessions
Interested parties may book an individual pre-mediation session. The individual session helps the mediator to assess safety and comfort of the parties and the ability of each person to negotiate on their own behalf.
To learn more about the child therapist's role with children of divorce click here.
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Click here to view the Requirements for Registered Parenting Coordinator and Arbitrator from the Alberta Family Mediation Society.
All parents attend an individual session initially and then they attend joint sessions thereafter.
Click here for the Child-Centered Mediation Agreement (pdf)
To review the Agreement to Mediate, please click here. (pdf)