Telemediation & You
It is no surprise virtual mediations are becoming more popular these days. The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted our perspective when it comes to what we can achieve in the comfort of our own homes. When it comes to mediation, there are particular benefits of mediating behind the screen. There are also specific considerations. Here are a few items to consider before meeting at the virtual negotiation table:
1. Telemediation can lower the temperature- If you and your spouse (or ex-spouse/partner) have a tense relationship, sitting physically within that person’s vicinity may be less than ideal! Having to be in the same room could mean picking up on that person’s mannerisms and energy (something you likely desire to avoid at this point). Sometimes the screen creates a more comfortable barrier between you and the other person. You do not have to hear them tap their feet or physically be in their presence when they sigh, for instance.
2. Mediating virtually means comfort-You can mediate in your sweatpants! So long as you adhere to being respectful to all involved, many mediators do not require business attire nor a formal dress code for their mediations or telemediations. Grab your chamomile tea, a comforting pet, and your slippers for your next mediation session. Surrounding ourselves in comfort can relax us, allowing us to be more present, creative, and call on our own wisdom when in the mediation room.
3. Internet mediations just makes sense- When your busy family calendar has recitals, soccer practice, and speech therapy appointments, the last thing you likely want to do is set up another in-person commitment. Mediating from home means no commute, less time waiting in another professional’s office, and more time with your family (likely the whole reason you are opting for mediation in the first place!). Basically, mediating virtually is beyond convenient.
Although telemediation offers wonderful advantages, here are some possible downsides/items to consider when opting for virtual mediations:
1. Requires an internet connection- Not all clients possess their own private and quality internet connections. Mediating virtually at another location, such as on a public library’s computer, might offer less privacy.
2. Client preference- Not all clients enjoy meeting online and prefer face-to-face interaction with their mediator as well as with their partner, co-parent, or ex-spouse.
3. Confidentiality/Privacy concerns- As with all internet use, internet safety and client confidentiality/privacy are always top concerns. Despite a mediator’s best efforts, cyber hacks can happen. One way to possibly minimize such breaches is to use services that are encrypted. It might benefit clients to ask their mediator if their virtual mediation platform is encrypted, and how they address internet safety.
