Mediation for Couples
at Impulse Treatment Center

Mediation is a voluntary and private dispute resolution process. It differs from couples counseling in that it offers immediate solutions to specific disputes.

In mediation, a neutral mediator helps couples open and strengthen channels of communication, clarify positions, identify underlying interests, separate out negotiable from non-negotiable issues, and explore possible solutions to differences.

Traditionally, mediation provides an alternative to the win-lose approach of the adversarial legal system. It empowers you to take control of your disagreement or dispute and creatively arrive at a solution tailored to the needs of you and your family, rather than having one imposed by a judge or jury.

At Impulse Treatment Center we believe mediation in the early stage of recovery may help move couples out of “stuck” places and problem-solve at a time when they may not yet have the emotional resources to work through their pain. The mediation process can provide solutions while minimizing the risk of re-traumitization at a vulnerable time.

Mediation can be especially effective when conflict and anger are high, and communication has broken down. Virtually all kinds of disputes, including separations, parenting and custody agreements, dissolution of marriage, child and spousal support, dividing property and debts, pre-marital agreements, co-habitation agreements, stepfamily and elder care issues, are suitable for mediation.

In joint sessions the mediator will help you to clarify the issues, communicate clearly, understand the other party’s point of view, identify fundamental interests, consider options for settlement and offer guidance in moving toward compromise and resolution. To ensure closure, written agreements are prepared where appropriate or desired.

For those of you who are interested in the transformative aspects of the process, you will learn new and more effective communication skills and ways to stay centered even in the midst of conflict.

Impulse Treatment Center does not provide legal representation to its mediation clients, but encourages each party to consult with an independent legal representative.