WDRC Virtual Mediator In-Service Event
The WDRC has an expansive program and community of mediators, practicum students, and mediators in training. Each month, we hold an in-service opportunity to promote continued learning and connection for our cohort of mediators. We all look forward to this monthly connection and hoped that physical distancing would not keep our community socially distant. In response to this desire to continue these regular gatherings, Gayle, our Mediation Program Manager, designed our first virtual mediator in-service event. Twenty-six of our wonderful mediators and staff members were able to gather together to see familiar faces and to collaborate on how they can continue to promote healthy and creative conflict resolution within the community.
During the Zoom In-Service event, after an initial large group gathering, mediators and staff members were separated into break-out sessions to hold in-depth discussions with a small group. Discussion topics focused on recognizing and highlighting the ways that our mediators have been able to utilize their mediation skills in their own lives. Conversations centered around the skills and advice that these individuals hold to support one another to continue to promote healthy conflict resolution skills during these unprecedented times.
There were many skills that our mediators felt were important to rely on during this time including the skill of identifying the needs of those around you. Understanding that while individuals may respond differently to crises, many of our underlying needs remain the same. This is a healthy and reliable place to start. Another skill that was heavily emphasized by our mediators was the importance of staying curious. Asking questions allows you to better understand how the people around you are doing and helps them feel that you care about them. Without asking questions about how someone is feeling, many of our mediators expressed that it can be easy to assume that the other person is feeling or handling their emotions differently than they really are. We all know that making assumptions easily leads to miscommunications and misunderstandings.
Another piece of wisdom offered was to take breaks when they are needed. When emotions run high it is often difficult to understand the other person and to listen to their needs and remain present in the moment. By taking the time to step away from the conflict, it can allow both you and the other individual to come back together after you’ve both had the time to allow those intense feelings to settle. Our mediators know from experience that time away from the situation often provided space to move forward in a healthier and more productive manner.
Our mediators also expressed that staying present can really help when facing conflict. When you take the time to remain in the moment and focus on the experience of others, it is much easier to understand how those around you may be reacting to the stress in their lives. Many of our mediators also highlighted that it can be a challenge to not have as much access to one another’s lives during this time. Reaching out to others in small ways can also be a huge encouragement in their lives and allows both you and the other individual to maintain an important connection.
Here at the WDRC we know that conflict has not ended during the Stay Home and Stay Healthy order. Recognizing that some of the conflict we are experiencing has even increased due to the heightened stress that we are all feeling, it is important to highlight the value of connection. We are deeply appreciative of our staff and our team of mediators for coming together to hold such a meaningful space for connection and conversation. We look forward to our next in-service opportunity to connect at the end of May.