Conflict isn’t pathology — it’s often a natural response to inequality, unmet needs, and structural oppression. Rather than suppressing conflict or rushing toward superficial resolution, my approach to mediation seeks to understand the deeper conditions that create tension and work toward transformative solutions that address root causes.
Further, as a General Civil Mediator in Michigan and trained in restorative justice practices, I bring a critical analysis framework to conflict resolution that centers relationship repair, systemic accountability, and community healing.
Ready to move beyond band-aid solutions toward lasting transformation?
Contact me to discuss how mediation can serve your situation.
Understanding Transformative Mediation
Traditional mediation often focuses on “getting to yes” — when did sales-speak become a part of conflict resolution? — without an ecological examination of what’s brought the parties to this point. My approach is grounded in transformative justice principles that seek to:
- Address structural causes of conflict rather than just surface-level disagreements
- Center the voices of those most impacted by harm
- Build capacity for ongoing relationship navigation rather than one-time resolution
- Challenge systems that perpetuate cycles of conflict and harm
Theoretical foundation in: Social Theory and practical application through Trauma-Informed Practices
Specialized Mediation Services
Mediation
Mediation addresses conflict between parties, and seeks management and/or resolution. I provide mediation for private parties who need a third person in the (usually virtual) room, or within workplaces and organizations.
Michigan General Civil Mediation
As a General Civil Mediator in Michigan, I function as a neutral third party in a formal dispute between a plaintiff and a defendant (and/or their representatives), providing confidential facilitation within this legal process.
Conflict Management
Whereas mediation is about working between two distinct parties, conflict management is more broad — it’s not necessarily about being neutral, nor is it only about one (or more) “sides.” I provide one-on-one support for individuals navigating complex conflict situations, within organizations enduring crisis, or when Employee Experience is faltering and someone needs to step in.
Enhanced by:Â Coaching Services for individual capacity building
Restorative Practices
Facilitating processes that center those harmed while creating opportunities for accountability and community healing. This approach is particularly relevant for organizational shortcomings and community conflicts.
Critical Analysis in Conflict Resolution
Power Mapping and Structural Assessment
In non-neutral conflict management scenarios, we examine:
- Disparities between parties
- Institutional power differences (employer/employee, majority/minority status)
- Historical patterns of oppression or marginalization
- Systemic barriers to equal participation in resolution processes
Trauma-Informed Approach
Recognizing that conflict often re-traumatizes those who have experienced systemic oppression, process should be designed with:
- Safety-first protocols for vulnerable participants
- Choice and autonomy in process design and participation
- Cultural responsiveness to diverse communities’ conflict resolution traditions
- Healing-centered practices that address emotional and spiritual dimensions
When Mediation May Not Be Appropriate
Following trauma-informed and social justice principles, I do not facilitate mediation when:
- Active abuse or safety concerns exist
- Significant power imbalances cannot be adequately addressed
- One party lacks capacity for meaningful participation
- Systemic oppression requires advocacy rather than neutrality
In some of these cases, it is better to use Conflict Management or Restorative Practices to achieve a justice-oriented starting point and end point.
Investment and Accessibility
Mediation fees are structured to balance community accessibility with professional sustainability.
Sliding scale options available for:
- Community-based conflicts affecting marginalized populations
- Nonprofit organizations with limited resources
- Individual parties demonstrating financial need
Standard rates apply for:
- Corporate and institutional conflicts
- High-income individual disputes
- Complex multi-party mediations requiring extensive preparation
Ready to Transform Conflict?
If you’re facing a conflict that requires more than surface-level resolution, let’s explore how transformative mediation can serve your situation.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your conflict and potential resolution approaches.
Stay informed about conflict transformation and social justice through my Spotlight on Society newsletter:
Conflict is information—let’s listen to what it’s telling us and work toward real solutions.
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