High Conflict Couples

Even high conflict couples can often mediate satisfactorily.  Perhaps surprisingly, couples who are court-ordered have the same success rate as voluntary couples.  This may be because the mediator starts with the opposing positions each person takes,and works to tease out the underlying interests of the two people.  When this happens, it is often possible to brainstorm and craft a plan that addresses the needs of both.

When domestic violence has occurred in the family, or one person does not feel safe to mediate, the conflict may be inappropriate for mediation.  This is often decided on a case by case basis depending on many pertinent factors, but most importantly, the comfort level of the person who has been victimized.

Roslyn Zinner, LCSW-C is also an experienced Parent Coordinator, trained to help in high conflict situations.