Program Certificate in Separation & Divorce Mediation

The creators and instructors of the Program Certificate in Separation and Divorce Mediation are Judith Lake C.Med., Rachel McDonald C.Med., and Joanne Munro C.Med.

Together, they have helped thousands of clients work collaboratively through separation and divorce as well as issues of guardianship and grandparent time. All three provide family mediation through their private practices and through Alberta Justice Resolution Services. They have been actively involved in teaching and mentoring mediators for well over a decade. 

The well‐researched course content and extensive student manuals are evidence of their passion for ethical practice and continuous learning. Their goal is for mediators taking the program to be well‐equipped to work safely and skillfully in this highly charged and emotionally intense field.

• Learn which federal and provincial legislation governs separation and divorce and when they apply, including the Divorce Act, Family Law Act, Matrimonial Property Act, and Alberta’s Child Support Guidelines.
  
• Understand the ethical considerations specific to divorce and separation
  
• Explore the emotional impact of separation and divorce on partners, parents and children, and the impact on mediation
  
• Know how to screen clients and prepare them for mediation, including how to identify situations of domestic violence and how to put safety procedures in place
  
• Draft parenting plans and calculate child support
  
• Calculate spousal support and facilitate division of property
  
• Practice techniques to work with high conflict personalities and situations
  

Experienced mediators and advanced mediation students interested in working in the separation and divorce field.

  Certificate Application Fee: $25 (upon completion of all courses)

Course materials include a Learner's Manual for each module and a Reference Manual. The Reference Manual includes copies of the applicable legislation, and samples and templates for all the issues common to this work, as well as a list of resources and referral agencies to help clients prepare for mediation. All materials are provided in class.

This Certificate Program is 9 days (68 hours) of training, the program courses include lecture, video, personal reflection, group discussion, and small group activities and role-playing with a coach providing feedback. Instructors are available for consultation regarding assignments throughout the course and to ensure student success.

Upon completion of all three courses and the additional assignments, please download and complete the Program Certificate Application form.