Center provides mediator training opportunities this fall

For anyone intrigued by the idea of being a mediator or seeking additional mediation training, Oakland Mediation Center (OMC) is the local mediation training expert. OMC offers 40-Hour Domestic and Civil Mediator Trainings as well as Advanced Mediator Training to any individual who wishes to learn and enhance their skills to help others workout their disputes. Participants in mediation training will enhance their current skill set and marketability, become eligible for the court roster list of approved mediators, and improve their own communication and negotiating skills personally and professionally. The "40-Hour Domestic Relations Mediator Training" teaches participants the skills necessary to act as mediators in facilitating the resolution of divorce and custody disputes from the initial consultation to writing the mediation agreement. This training will be offered Oct. 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The training cost is $1,390 and includes the SCAO required 8-hour Domestic Violence Screening Training, Mediation Manual, and Reproducible Forms. The "Mediator's Toolbox: Working as a team in managing conflict and dispute resolution" training will be held on Oct. 24 with Judith Bridges, JoAnna DeCamp, and Susan Lebold. How mediators handle conflict and the resulting tension and stress it creates, can either negatively or positively impact the outcome of the mediation. In this interactive 8-hour advanced mediation training, participants will learn why conflict happens, useful strategies for managing disagreements, and practical skills that mediators can use to diffuse the level of emotion, acknowledge hurt feelings, and take steps toward building lasting agreements. The training cost is $295. OMC's Trainings are approved by the State Court Administrative Office and are designed to be highly interactive and skill based. The trainings take place at the Oakland Mediation Center in Bloomfield Hills and include continental breakfast, lunch, snacks, and course materials. "OMC's mission is to help the community peacefully resolve conflict through mediation and education," said Bonnie Hanes, OMC executive director. "These trainings teach powerful skills and techniques to resolve conflict and prevent escalation. By resolving conflicts, we are creating a more peaceful community." For additional information about the trainings, contact the Oakland Mediation Center training department at 248-338-4280, ext. 216. Published: Fri, Oct 4, 2013