Ohio residents who are going through a divorce may wish to consider mediation. This process can be a form of conflict resolution that differs from therapy in that it does not focus on systems of behavior and mental health. Instead, mediation focuses specifically on identification of goals and reaching those goals in a way that satisfies both parties.
Mediation means individuals must focus on getting past any anger to listen to and communicate what they feel. This means that the person who is communicating can use tools like body language to convey a more relaxed position when they speak. The person who is listening can focus on hearing what is being said without being defensive.
Mediation is used with organizations as well as with individuals. After a divorce, people may wish to seek further mediation if conflicts continue to arise. Some mediators find that mediation helps couples look at the big picture and make better long-term decisions as a result.
People who are contemplating a divorce may wish to speak to their attorneys about using mediation. Whether they are struggling to negotiate issues like child care, visitation, support or division of property, individuals may benefit from mediation rather than litigation. Mediation may lead to a swifter, less expensive and more satisfactory resolution and may also provide individuals with tools they can use if any further conflict arises down the line. Through mediation, divorcing couples may agree to compromise. For example, one parent might insist on physical custody prior to mediation, but after mediation, the parent might agree to share custody. Individuals might disagree about what to do with a shared property such as a house. After mediation, one might agree to buy out the other or they might work out an agreement in which one relinquishes the house in exchange for other shared property such as a retirement account.