Family mediators intervene in the resolution of conflicts at the specific behest of a couple with unresolved issues, or at the suggestion of a judge, in order to help re-establish communication between the parties and reach a peaceful solution to the conflict, avoiding or facilitating subsequent resolution through legal proceedings. The figure of the mediator acts to attempt to reduce the tension, restoring calmness to the situation, developing clients' self-esteem and mutual trust.

• Establish the framework for the mediation.
  Convene both members of the couple around a negotiating table (when one of the members of the couple made the first contact, the mediator is responsible for contacting the other member).
  Thoroughly outline the details of the mediation process, how long it is expected to last and how the information generated will be used, setting the record straight with regards to all issues related to confidentality, each party's rights and voluntary participation.
  Inform the couple of the procedures involved in and consequences of contested legal proceedings, to give them an appreciation of the space offered by mediation.
  Agree on a working agenda with both members of the couple and draw up a contract.
• Gather and organise the information.
  Tailoring their stance to be more or less directive, question the members of the couple about the issues that have brought them to mediation.
  Where necessary, also interview the couple's children and new partners, where one or both members have entered into a new relationship.
  Allow each member to speak without being uninterrupted.
  Lead the conversation, ensuring it concentrates on the most relevant issues.
  Strive to ensure the balance of power is maintained.
  Organise and systematize the information obtained.
• Identify the points of dispute, or issues.
  Identify and organise areas of conflict.
  Distinguish and clarify irreconcilable issues.
  Identify misunderstandings and iron them out.
  Identify standards of justice for decisions made.
• Develop possible options.
  Draw out ideas and options from both parties.
  Contribute their own ideas without putting pressure on their being accepted.
  Examine the strengths and weaknesses of the different options, and their consequences.
  Identify transitional areas and design a suitable strategy to get through them.
• Renforce the agreement.
  Choose the apposite moment for decision-making time.
  Facilitate the push and pull involved in reaching an agreement.
  Outline what has been agreed, and deal with any areas of disagreement.
  Record the agreements in writing.
  Together with the members of the couple, decide how the agreement is to be executed.
  Contact the couple's lawyers, where necessary.
• During the mediation process, the mediator takes on various different roles: they coordinate the process, facilitate communication, facilitate an analysis of the situation and represent external reality. In this regard, family mediators do not judge, determine who is guilty or innocent or decide who is right or wrong. Family mediators do not give therapy or offer advice.

Regulated training and graduates

• Grau: Educació social
• Grau: Treball social
• Grau: Dret
• Grau: Pedagogia
• Grau: Educació infantil
• Grau: Educació primària
• Grau: Psicologia

Complementary training

Initiative: Level 3

Self-control: Level 2

Orientation within reach: Level 2

Empathy: Level 3

Analytical thought: Level 2

Negotiation: Level 3

Social community worker

Individuals related to the social/community field have an interest in working to improve people's social well-being and quality of life, as well as enhance their integration into their social, family and/or work environment. The professional activities that are common in this field include providing special support and aid to people at risk of social exclusion, designing programmes and implementing resources for the social and cultural stimulation of an area, and acting as mediators for conflict resolution in family, social or interpersonal environments. These activities involve constant interaction with people in order to improve their psychological and social well-being.

Mediator

Educator in technology for the blind.

Diversity and inclusive education teacher

Migration advisor

Job placement specialist

• Work hours

  At present this occupation is usually carried out on a part-time basis, in combination with other professional activities linked to the training required to perform this role.

• Salary

  Salary varies depending on whether you work in the public or private sector.