A contributing factor allowing counsellors to become exceptionally good mediators is the skills set that both disciplines demand. Many of the skills demonstrated by a counsellor on a daily basis are easily transferred to mediation. Some of the necessary skills include maintaining impartiality, communication, understanding boundaries, but above all the ability to listen and reflect is paramount.
During the initial mediation meeting with each party, you need to demonstrate listening skills and understand the situation from the viewpoint of each individual. Employing this skill helps to deduce whether each party is looking for a genuine solution, as well as the likelihood of reaching a workable agreement. Having said this, the ability to allow individuals to arrive at their own agreements is essential in mediation because the mediator should not direct disputants to a resolution, it is down to the parties in conflict. Refraining from directing the disputants and allowing them to work matters out in their own time is similar to the counselling philosophy, and is another skill that you can call upon from your prior experience. Although the ultimate outcome from mediation is a workable solution, getting to this point requires firm control and an element of sensitivity.
The mediation process might be slightly different to how some counsellors currently work. Being able to employ the step-by-step mediation process provides guidelines for operating in a safe and fair manner for all parties involved. Sometimes undertaking workplace mediation cases without a set process or procedure can unintentionally make matters worse, adding extra stress to the dispute.
Mediation can therefore be a professional tool added to any Counsellor’s repertoire and professional services. With accredited training you will be able to offer mediation, knowing that you are operating in a safe and productive way.
