Practice Integration — Responding to Mediation Challenges

Mediation looks straightforward in theory. Then you get into the room and one party won't stop interrupting, the other has just dropped a bombshell, and you're trying to work out whether you're hearing a position, an interest, or an impact.

This session is about closing the gap between what you've learned and what actually happens at the table. Joanne Law, Director of Mediation Institute, works through the mindset shifts and practical tools that turn knowledge into skilled practice.

Topics covered:

• The advisor-to-mediator mind shift — letting go of the urge to solve
• Applying the Thomas-Kilmann conflict styles in real mediations
• Recognising cognitive biases — yours and theirs
• Curious questioning — asking without leading
• Reframing that lands, not the kind that annoys people
• Dealing with difficulties — interruptions, escalation, stuck conversations
• Extracting issues, interests and impacts — and knowing which is which
• And more

Who it's for:Mi COT students, Members, and practising mediators wanting to sharpen their practice.

Come ready to engage in an interactive session, share your insights, and take part in active exercises.