Why a Psychology Background Is So Valuable for a Divorce Mediator
Why a Psychology Background Is So Valuable for a Divorce Mediator
When it comes to selecting a divorce mediator, budget sometimes overtakes strategy. Couples facing legal separation or divorce are likely have an array of existing concerns regarding assets, income and spending, and all too often they turn to less expensive, but also less experienced, professionals to aid them in divorce mediation.
Conversely, some couples facing mediation turn to “big names” or a retired judge. While this may work in some cases, many couples find that mediators with psychology backgrounds prove most effective when working through divorce mediation. Here’s why.
They Can Help Minimize Discomfort and Reduce Emotional Outbursts
If you’re about to separate from your spouse, sitting across the table from them for an extended period of time is probably not at the top of the list of things you want to be doing. However, doing so in the company of a professional trained in psychology will likely help smooth things over when emotions run high, and it can also help you and your spouse work through issues with minimal conflict and aggression.
They Can Help Make Things Easier for the Children
Divorce is often tough on children, even when both parents have the best intentions. Having a mediator with backgrounds in psychology as well as law to assist you through your divorce mediation is a great way to ensure that an impartial third party has your kids’ best interest at heart. While you and your spouse likely want what’s best for the children, too, anger, resentment and bitterness can sometimes cloud judgment and impede one’s ability to make rational decisions. Furthermore, children can sense when tension exists between their parents, and continuous conflict between parents can lead to a broad array of social and emotional problems down the line. Mediators with expertise in both law and psychology are best suited to help divorcing couples keep the best interest of their child/ren in mind.
They Can Help You Avoid Making the Same Mistakes in Future Relationships
Because emotions run high throughout divorce mediation, having someone well-trained in the inner-workings of the human mind can help you recognize what went wrong in your marriage in the first place. Maybe you were at fault, or maybe your spouse was to blame. Maybe both of you played an equal role in the demise of your marriage. Regardless of who may have been at fault, however, a mediator trained in both psychology can help you recognize your role in the matter and also help you avoid making the same mistakes in future relationships moving forward.
If you’ve already made the decision to mediate, you’ve shown a willingness to work through the separation process with minimal conflict, stress and strife. A mediator trained in psychology as well as law can help you do so effectively while paying special attention to the emotions and well-being of everyone involved.
