How to Choose a Mediator

Because there is currently no legislation in Alberta governing mediators, there are several things to consider when selecting one:

-Experience
-Training
-Specialized Knowledge

 

Here is a checklist that may help:

  • The mediator has experience mediating in this environment

  • The mediator has experience handling the level of complexity required

  • The mediator has trained as a mediator

  • The mediator is able to explain the mediation process he or she will use.

  • The mediator has the parties sign an agreement to mediate

  • The parties are comfortable with the mediator

  • The mediator holds a National Designation of either Qualified Mediator (Q.Med) or Chartered Mediator (C.Med) through the ADR Institute of Canada or has completed his/her certificate in conflict management through educational programs such as those offered by the Alberta Arbitraion and Mediation Society and which include rigorous assessments to determine competency.

What is a Mediator?

A Mediator is a person who plays an impartial role and is chosen by the parties involved in a dispute to help them build understanding and to negotiate a solution to their conflict.  The Mediator has no decision making power and does not provide advice to the parties.  The Mediator assists the parties to voluntarily reach their own mutually acceptable resolutions in a timely manner by:

  • structuring the communication process
  • maintaining the channels of open communication
  • facilitating each party's expression of their needs
  • helping the parties identify and frame their issues in dispute; and
  • supporting the parties to find solutions that are lasting and meaningful.

 

The ADR Institute of Canada (ADR Canada) is a national non-profit organization that provides leadership in the development and promotion of dispute resolution services in Canada and internationally. It provides members with recognized practice designations that include the Chartered Mediator (C. Med.), Chartered Arbitrator (C. Arb.), and Qualified Mediator designations.

These designations assist the public to choose a practitioner who is practising at a specific level and whose qualifications have been reviewed by a professional body for enhanced quality assurance.


www.adrcanada.ca/resources/designation.cfm 

The Alberta Arbitration and Mediation Society (AAMS) is a provincial affiliate of the ADR Institute of Canada, Inc., and retains jurisdictional responsibility for recommending candidates to the national organization for the designations, "Chartered Arbitrator", "Chartered Mediator" and "Qualified Mediator."

AAMS maintains a directory of ADR practitioners practicing in Alberta.

www.aams.ab.ca