Many people come to Evölve for mediation after therapy does not achieve a resolution to their conflict. Mediation is a litigation-free alternative for conflict resolution that provides impartial facilitation and a process focused on resolution. It works to help the couple or even 2 individuals struggling to compromise with their differences.

Is mediation the same as therapy?

Therapy and mediation are both valuable ways to resolve conflict, and in some cases, can even complement each other when used in combination. Understanding the difference between the two processes can help you determine which approach would best resolve the specific issues you are facing.

Therapy is an open-ended process that focuses on digging into the past causes of current problems. It is a long-term commitment and it can take months to effect change. On the other hand, Mediation focuses on quickly resolving a current problem, with the goal of improving the future.

Mediation is a rapid approach focused on identifying where each party stands; why they feel the way they do; and most importantly, how they can reach a resolution together. Mediation’s goal is to find practical ways to make positive changes that everyone can agree on, so that participants get immediate help. Once a resolution is agreed upon, the process is complete, and the parties can move on.

What are the key differences between therapy and mediation?

Impartiality. A mediator is highly trained in the art of impartial facilitation. Their role is simply to guide participants through a calm and focused conversation. Mediators ensure that each party has their say and understands the other’s stance, while counselling focuses on emotions. Focusing on emotions can emphasize feelings of hurt, frustration, and defensiveness, which prolongs the process.

Process. Mediation is a process that follows a series of steps, which allows participants and the mediator to measure their progress toward resolution. Therapy tends to be unstructured, which is one reason why it can take a long time to resolve a specific issue.

Focus On Resolution. Therapy’s end goal is to help people through conflict. However, it rarely results in a written, formal document stating the results. Mediation allows for closure because it has a set endpoint. It is also common for each party to walk away with a written agreement detailing the next steps.

Cost. Because mediation is a short-term process with rapid results, it is typically far less expensive than therapy or litigation.

If you and your partner are going through a separation and require mediation to reduce the cost of litigation with lawyers and increase the level of understanding, compassion and guidance, as well as working with a mental health professional to decrease the emotional upset caused by the separation, please contact Evölve today to schedule your first appointment.

If you would also like to explore individual, couples or family therapy, check our Therapy and Mental Health Services here

To learn more about Family Mediation in Ontario, click here.