*This course fulfills 21 hours of the specialized mediation and related training education requirement for the Q.Med designation (40 total are required) and is accredited by The ADR Institute of Canada (ADRIC) and The ADR Institute of Ontario (ADRIO). Live Session Schedule — Tuesdays and Wednesdays 6:30 – 8:30 PM EDT–

Mediators want to provide services that all clients with diverse abilities and exceptionalities can fully and safely participate in.  Mediators must be aware of the barriers faced by persons with disabilities and non-dominant cultures so that clients are empowered and able to participate meaningfully and actively.

Successful mediators can connect with a diverse client base. They ensure an inclusive process by developing insight as to when and how their own biases affect their neutrality; attuning to their clients’ strengths, needs, and vulnerabilities; and utilizing active listening skills to improve rapport and clients’ sense of belonging.

This course will employ reflection assignments and case studies from both popular culture and the instructors’ anecdotal professional experiences. The course will examine skills conducive to facilitating mediation processes that incorporate justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI-B) principles. Required textbook: “Conflict Across Cultures: A Unique Experience of Bridging Differences Paperback – Illustrated“, Nov. 2 2006, by Michelle Lebaron (Author), Vanashri Pillay (Author).