Alternative Dispute Resolution is a relatively new and growing field. It is important to understand that ADR is unregulated, and anyone can say they are an ADR practitioner.
Part of the ADR Institute of Alberta (ADRIA)’s role is to support high standards and professional conduct. In addition to providing nationally-recognized training to practitioners, all of our members pledge to uphold a Code of Ethics and are subject to our complaints and discipline process.
Learn about the Different Types of ADR
Mediation and Arbitration may be among the best known ADR practices, but there are many others.
ADR practitioners are neutral third-party facilitators and include mediators, arbitrators, restorative practitioners, conflict coaches, workplace investigators, and interest-based negotiators.
Most involve bringing in an independent third party to oversee a negotiation and resolution between the people involved. But each is a unique process designed to be used for different purposes and in different types of situations.
Look for a Professional Designation
In partnership with the ADR Institute of Canada (ADRIC), ADRIA administers the only official designations for practicing mediators and arbitrators in Canada.
These designations show that the practitioner meets specific professional criteria, keeps current in the field, and adheres to a professional Code of Ethics.
There are five types of designations available to practitioners in Canada:
- Chartered Mediator (C.Med)
- Qualified Mediator (Q.Med)
- Chartered Arbitrator (C.Arb)
- Qualified Arbitrator (Q.Arb)
- Chartered Mediator-Arbitrator (C.Med-Arb)
A “Chartered” designation is a senior-level designation that indicates an advanced level of training, experience and competency in cases of moderate to high complexity.
A “Qualified” designation is an entry-level designation that indicates a minimum standard of training.
Search our Directory
Use our searchable directory to find an ADR practitioner anywhere in Alberta.
The ADR specialists profiled in this directory are vetted and have their qualifications verified before being included. They are members of the ADR Institute of Alberta, bound by a Code of Ethics, and subject to our complaint resolution process.
You can search by designation, area of practice, location including those who work online, and services offered.
Questions to Ask When Hiring a Mediator or Arbitrator
- Do you have a professional designation?
- What is your training?
- What is your experience in this area?
- What style of ADR do you use?
- Are you a member of a professional organization?
- Do you follow a code of ethics?
- What recourse do I have if I am unhappy with the service I receive?
- Do you carry professional liability insurance?
