FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I try to keep things transparent, fair, and flat-fee. Before we begin, I offer a free consultation so we can talk through your situation and I can estimate cost. Usually, my estimates are spot on, but it does depend (how many issues there are, how much prep, how many sessions). I invoice in advance for sessions, and canceling with sufficient notice won’t cost you. My aim: you should never feel surprised by hidden fees.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Here’s the usual flow (but I’m flexible if your situation needs it): Free consult — 15–20 minutes by phone. We talk about your goals, struggles, and see whether mediation is a good fit. Intake & agreement — If you move forward, I send you some documents: an intake form, a mediation agreement, and instructions on what to prepare (finances, parenting info, etc.). First session(s) — We hold sessions (usually 3-hour blocks) where I facilitate the conversation, help you name issues, and assist you both in creating options. Draft agreement — Once you’ve found terms you both can live with, I facilitate you writing up a final agreement. You can choose to file it yourself, or bring in counsel. Follow-up / check-in — Sometimes I’ll check in (or you can ask) to ensure what you agreed to is working, or help revise if life changes intervene. Throughout, I stay neutral, keep conversations grounded and safe, and let you guide what’s important to work on
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was a practicing attorney for about five years before shifting full-time to mediation. That gives me solid legal appreciation (especially around divorce, estate, business) without being an advocate for either party. My co-founder (Kate) is a trained restorative mediation practitioner and Rule 114 Qualified Neutral, specializing in family systems. I’ve also trained in transformative mediation, facilitation, and conflict resolution practices (listening, structure, de-escalation). In couples mediation, I draw on research-backed frameworks like Gottman Method and Internal Family Systems (IFS).