MEDIATION & CONFLICTCOACHING

Private Mediation & Coaching FAQ

Welcome! This page is here to answer the most common questions people have about private mediation and coaching. My aim is to give you clarity, build trust, and help you decide if this is the right fit for your situation.

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Understanding My Accreditation & Services

Q1: Are you an accredited FDRP?

No, I am not an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner. This means I cannot issue s 60I Certificates under the Family Law Act. My services focus on private, non-legal mediation and conflict coaching.

I help families, couples, and individuals resolve disputes and strengthen communication without needing to go through the court system.

Q2: Can you help intact families?

Yes, absolutely. Many intact families use mediation to improve communication, reduce tension, and create healthier dynamics before conflicts escalate.

Working with Separated Parents

Q3: Can you help separated parents?

Yes, I work with separated parents who want to avoid the court system and resolve matters privately. While I cannot provide a s 60I Certificate, I can help you create practical parenting plans and agreements that support cooperation.

My approach focuses on building sustainable communication patterns and creating agreements that work for your unique family situation, without the formality and stress of court proceedings.

Private Mediation vs Court-Based FDR

Q4: What's the difference?

Understanding the distinction between court-based Family Dispute Resolution and private mediation helps you choose the right path for your family.

Legal Considerations & Agreements

Q5: Are agreements legally binding?

Agreements reached in private mediation are not automatically legally binding. However, you can choose to formalise them with legal advice or through the court system if you wish.

Q7: Do you provide legal advice?

No, I do not provide legal advice. My role is to guide the mediation process, improve communication, and help you explore solutions. If you need legal advice, I encourage you to consult with a lawyer alongside mediation.

What If We Can't Agree?

Q6: Understanding Your Options

1

Attempt Mediation

We'll work through the process together to find common ground and explore creative solutions.

2

If Agreement Can't Be Reached

I can provide referrals to accredited FDR practitioners or lawyers if you need to explore other options.

My commitment is to help you exhaust all possibilities for resolution before considering more formal processes. Many families find that with patience and the right support, they can reach agreements they didn't think were possible.

Timeline & Process

Q8: How long does mediation take?

Each situation is unique. Some families resolve issues in one or two sessions, while others may need more time. I'll recommend an approach tailored to your needs.

The timeline depends on factors like the complexity of issues, the level of conflict, and how quickly both parties can engage in the process. What matters most is creating lasting solutions, not rushing to a quick fix.

During our initial consultation, I'll give you a realistic sense of what to expect based on your specific circumstances.

Types of Conflict I Work With

Q9: Who can benefit from private mediation?

Intact Families

Intact families and couples wanting healthier communication

Separated Parents

Separated parents seeking cooperation outside court

Extended Family

Extended family and intergenerational disputes

High-Conflict

High-conflict personality dynamics

Workplace

Workplace or community conflicts

From Mediation to Legal Agreement

Q10: What if we want to go to court later?

If you decide to pursue court action later, you'll need to see an accredited FDRP to obtain a s 60I Certificate. The work we do here, however, often makes that step unnecessary – and if it does happen, you'll already be better prepared.

01

Parenting Plans

Flexible and not legally enforceable – great for families who want adaptability

02

Consent Orders

Legally enforceable and carry the same weight as a court order – processed "on the papers" without attending hearings

03

Binding Financial Agreements

For financial/property matters – requires independent legal advice for each party before signing

Click here for more information about legally binding vs morally binding agreements

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you still have questions not covered here, please reach out – I'd love to have a conversation about how private mediation might support you.

"Every family is different. I can help you understand your options so that the agreements you reach in mediation support lasting peace and clarity – with or without a legal stamp of approval."

Personalized Support

Tailored mediation approaches designed for your unique family dynamics and conflict situation

Flexible Process

Work at your own pace with shorter wait times and direct booking for your convenience

Lasting Solutions

Focus on building communication skills and agreements that create long-term peace and cooperation