What is facilitative mediation?

AMDRAS courses are based on the facilitative model of dispute resolution

Facilitative mediators are taught the theory and skills necessary to guide parties through a process where they will explore the dispute and underlying conflict, speak with each other directly, and prepare to make decisions regarding solutions or next steps (self-determination)

Facilitative mediators do not provide advice, pressure parties to make or accept offers, or suggest ideas for solving the matter

Parties may or may not be legally represented, or may have other support people in attendance, as appropriate (e.g. HR, union representatives, support persons). However, facilitative mediation is a party-led process

How is our course different? Psychologically-informed training

Unfortunately, a lot of mediation theory is now somewhat outdated

Our training has been developed by practitioners with psychological training and extensive mediation experience, and is delivered by Dr Darren Moroney, who holds a PhD in psychology, is a registered psychologist, Nationally Accredited Mediator (AMDRAS), and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)

We believe that effective approaches to dispute resolution require contemporary thinking and the incorporation of theoretically driven and evidence-based psychological concepts into a mediator’s skill-base and understanding

We have found that these psychological concepts complement and elevate the facilitative mediation process, and provide a framework for understanding what might sit behind the challenging and complex behaviours exhibited when under stress 

These concepts can also guide the intentional selection of specific and helpful interventions, and offer insights as to why certain aspects of practice might be effective, or where new approaches or processes might be beneficial

What is the Qualification?

The Australian Mediator and Dispute Resolution Accreditation Standard (AMDRAS) accreditation covers all relevant areas of mediation, excluding parenting matters related to family separation where a certificate to file in the Family Court may be required (these matters are mediated by registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners)

For eligibility to apply to be an AMDRAS Accredited Mediator, and to be listed on the AMDRAS Board’s National Register, participants must:

1. Successfully complete the Certificate of Training (COT) and Certificate of Assessment (COA) requirements, and

2. Meet the good character requirements, and

3. Meet the indemnity insurance requirements under the Standards (see AMDRAS website):

AMDRAS website

Coaching, Assessment, and Accreditation with the UWA Mediation Clinic

After successful completion of the Certificate of Training (COT) portion of the course, members of the UWA Mediation Clinic’s Certificate of Assessment (COA) team will assess participants who wish to be considered for National Mediation Accreditation

The assessment includes an assessed mediation simulation (role-play) and a written component

Certificates and Accreditation are issued and administered by the University of Western Australia