MII Code of Ethics and Practice Tuesday 9th March and Thursday 11th March 2021

Presented by Karen Erwin. 

ONLINE
3 CPD Points

MII Code of Ethics and Practice Training

Dates:  Delivered over two online sessions on Tuesday  9th March  1730-19.00 AND Thursday 11th March 1730-19.00
             Each session is  1.5 hours long with a 5 minute break in the middle of each session. 

Venue: Online via Zoom 

Time:     1730-19.00 This course is two sessions in the same week.

Cost:      €75.00

Trainer: Karen Erwin. Advanced MII member; Past President The MII and an experienced trainer. For further information and testimonials on the trainer www.erwin-mediation.ie

CPD: This  training qualifies for 3 CPD points and fulfils the MII requirement for completion of the mandatory MII Code of Ethics and Practice training which must be completed every 3 years to retain membership of the MII. It has full MII approval.

Training content: The training, which is based on the Code of Ethics and Practice of the MII, is an interactive training using practical examples to illustrate points; it updates the Code where appropriate with the provisions of the Mediation Act 2017; it allows for participants’ experiences to be shared and questions to be asked and answers discussed.

Outcomes of the training:

By the end of the training you will have an in-depth understanding of ethical and practical issues that might arise in practice; you will know the implications of the Mediation Act 2017 as it affects the Code; you will have had the opportunity to raise issues from your practice and be informed of issues that other mediators have; you will have refreshed your mediation knowledge.  

Testimonials on the training:

“Excellent presentation – obviously very well prepared and knowledgeable”

“This was one of the best training sessions learning events I have attended in the field of mediation. Karen was easy to listen to and a font of knowledge”

“Excellent presentation. Really useful discussion of the materials. Kept group alert and focussed. Gave examples for clarity and invited and responded to all questions.”

Booking Form:  training@erwin-mediation.ie

Payment: Payment by interbank transfer.

Training materials provided.

Payment secures booking

Email training@erwin-mediation.ie for a booking form

For further enquiries call 0872 415 844.

Places are allocated on a first come and paid first served. Max 15 people.

Cancellation: If you cancel 14 days before the course you will get a full refund less an administration cost of €20.00. You will not be entitled to any refund if you cancel less than 14 days before the course. A substitute person may attend in your stead with an administration charge of €20.00.

The trainer retains the right to cancel or postpone the course in the event that there are not sufficient numbers booked.  

GDPR: As this is mandatory training to retain membership of the MII the Trainer will be liaising with the MII in relation to attendances on the course and the booking form will seek permission under GDPR to provide attendance information to the MII as well as anonymised evaluation comments to assist their quality assurance.

Online Training

based on the book:

‘The Mediator’s Toolkit: Formulating and Asking Questions for Successful Outcomes’
Author and Trainer: Gerry O’Sullivan

Training course to radically sharpen, focus, and improve your mediation questioning skills to help you facilitate parties to successful and sustainable outcomes.

Presented by Gerry O’Sullivan, O’Sullivan Solutions

Online using Zoom
28 CPD Points 

Detailed information and booking:

https://www.osullivansolutions.ie/shtml/training_S_questions.shtml

This information includes a video advertisement as well as a complimentary video from Module 1.

Dates:

February/March course: 24, 25 February and 3, 4 March 2021

1.30pm - 5.30pm GMT

Cost: €429 - four half-day sessions

Venue: Online via Zoom 

THEMES COVERED IN THE SEVEN MODULES

Each module starts with delivery of the theory behind the question type, then film footage of a role-played mediation demonstrates the use of that question and this is followed by a presentation of its application to mediation practice. Workbooks with comprehensive notes, exercises and discussion points are also provided.

Introductory Module 1

Module 1a: The Context for Creating a Paradigm Shift

• This module shows the goals that need to be achieved when asking questions in mediation. You will learn how the distortion, deletion and deficit of communicated information can hinder or block conflict solution and the physiological changes that occur when parties are in conflict.

Module 1b: Use of 'The S Questions Model' and its application

• This module gives an overview of the framework of the S Questions Model and the four dimensions of questions within that model. It also introduces the Film Case Scenario that will be used as the context for all the filmed role plays in the other modules and the Practice Case Scenario that will be used in exercises post learning.

Module 2

Shift Thinking: Journey of Inference Questions

• The film contained in this module sets the context for the dispute, giving the interpretations and assumptions that parties made about the conflict situation and how this led to their misunderstanding of each other and to the positional stance that they took. These Journey of Inference questions make an unconscious thinking process conscious and introduce new insight to the parties that creates understanding between them. They shift a party's perspective from their old narrative towards a new and more healthy narrative.
  (Demonstration film is done with both parties in the room)

Module 3

Shift Thinking: Other People Questions

• The first film in this module illustrates how to challenge Kathy’s Journey of Inference (interpretations, assumptions and conclusions) by using Other People Questions and demonstrates how this can be done in a safe way. The second film uses Other People Questions with both parties in the room together at a later phase of the mediation. These questions broaden the perspectives of parties and make it easier for them to respond to questions which might otherwise invoke a feeling of threat. They facilitate a party to think cognitively, rather than from an 'avoid-threat reflex' state and they create understanding and illustrate empathy between parties.
  (Demonstration films are done with one party and both parties in the room)

Module 4

The two films in this module cover separate meetings with one of the characters, Kathy, during which a paradigm shift starts to take place as a result of the questions she is asked. As a result, Kathy starts to become more congruent in her communication and will be better prepared for the joint meeting.

Module 4a: Shift Thinking: Neuro-Linguistic Programming based Questions

• These questions bring clarity and explore subjective realities, reconnecting a party's language, along with its deletions, distortions and generalisations, with their actual experience.  They separate a party's 'fears' from the 'facts' and support a party to move from a place of intransigence. These questions lead to an adjustment of a party's subjective reality and a paradigm shift in their thinking and approach.
  (Demonstration film is done with one party at a separate meeting)

Module 4b: Distinctions and Differences Questions

• These questions also bring clarity and explore subjective realities. Specifically. they enable a party to step back from the conflict and view it with an alternative perspective. The questions bring clarity, relevance and boundary to a conflict. They bring measurement regarding something that requires more precise information such as the extent of an impact on parties; the level of understanding reached; the progress made during the mediation process; the appropriateness of solutions etc. These questions lead to an adjustment of a party's subjective reality and a paradigm shift in their thinking and approach.
  (Demonstration film is done with one party at a separate meeting)

Module 5

Shift Thinking: Cognitive Elements Based Questions

• This film demonstrates a private meeting with Tom and it shows how to identify clashing cognitive elements resulting in cognitive dissonance within him. The mediator demonstrates how to use this knowledge as a means for a party to identify future actions in order to return to a state of cognitive consonance. By returning to this state, a party can start to think logically and make rational decisions. These questions gently and safely challenge a party that is strongly defending their position or who appears to be in 'denial'. They facilitate a party to explore their dissonance so that they can get to the root of their inner conflict, and make decisions about how they need to address their conflict in the joint session.
  (Demonstration films are done with one party at a separate meeting)

Module 6

Shift Thinking: Underlying Interests Questions

• The two films in this module show how asking questions that go below the surface of a party’s position can lead to the core of their conflict and lead to their underlying interests and needs. Once this is done, parties become less emotional and are able to think cognitively and make decisions. Identifying these conscious or unconscious underlying interests provides a platform from which appropriate and sustainable agreements that meet a party’s underlying interests, rather than their positional demands, can be reached.
  (Demonstration film is done with both parties in the room)

Module 7

The two films in this module cover separate meetings with one of the characters, Kathy, during which a paradigm shift starts to take place as a result of the questions she is asked. As a result, Kathy starts to become more congruent in her communication and will be better prepared for the joint meeting.

Module 7a: Future Focus Questions

• Future Focused questions can change the state of a person so that they begin to think logically rather than emotionally. This allows them to safely think through the kind of agreements that could meet their underlying interests and needs. These questions paint a possible hypothetical, conditional or consequential picture on which parties can reflect and make decisions, from outside their current paradigm. These questions move a party off the conflict treadmill and lessen the chance of a party having an amygdala hijack and thinking from an emotional perspective.
  (Demonstration films are done with one party on their own as well as with both parties in the room)

Module 7b: Shift Thinking: Reflective Connecting Questions

• Reflective Connecting questions facilitate a party or parties to see the cycle of conflict that developed between them and how each of their actions may have led to a reaction from the other.  They enable parties to make connections and links between various facets of a conflict, thus broadening and expanding their thinking. These questions increase understanding and facilitate the parties to agree actions should an incident like this arise in the future. 
  (Demonstration film is done with both parties in the room)

Testimonials

"Excellent course, Gerry’s warmth and enthusiasm was infectious."
                                                                                                Declan McBrearty, Irish Prison Service

"An essential next step for anyone who has done the theory of mediation and anyone who wants to up-skill."
                                                                               Muriel Walls, Walls & Toomey, Solicitors, Dublin

"If you want to learn from somebody who knows their job and loves it, this is the course for you. Gerry’s honesty and enthusiasm is infectious. Brilliant facilitation and invaluable knowledge."
                                                                                                                                Ken Quinn, Wexford

"This training is exceptionally informative and revealing - enlightening the possibilities of good practise in mediation."
                                                                                   Tracey Thompson, Tipperary County Council

"It is essential information for anyone mediating."
Mary Smyth, State Valuation Office, Dublin

"Attend."
                                                   Chris Dunne, Hannah Carney & Associates, Solicitors, Dublin

Detailed information and booking:

https://www.osullivansolutions.ie/shtml/training_S_questions.shtml

                    WORKSHOP SERIES: MIND COACHING SOLUTIONS

                  Key Mediation Skills – ‘Bringing it all together’

Skills, Techniques & Strategies to enhance your mediation/coaching practice  

As mediators we develop a unique approach based on our own training, experience and personal qualities. Over this online workshop series, you will identify your key strengths and capabilities providing a sharper focus to your mediation practice. You will gain new insights and the opportunity to reflect on and practice the key skills required during the mediation process. This online workshop series is experiential and interactive with plenty of opportunity for group discussion.

Methodology

This is a series of 5 online interactive workshops with practical exercises, examples and group discussion.

Duration: Each workshop will take place online on Zoom from:  10.00am – 12.30pm  

Workshop1: Wednesday 24^th February 2021 THIS COURSE IS NOW FULLY BOOKED

Mediation – An integrative process

We are all aware of the key processes in the mediation process. Going deeper you will get the opportunity on this workshop to explore the relative benefits and inter-related nature of different styles of mediation and coaching through topics such as:-

Is there an opportunity to transform the relationship between your clients?

Would a story-telling narrative help?

 Is there a need for your clients to problem solve?

 Can restorative justice help to repair and restore relationships?

Would the application of NLP and process work strengthen your mediation practice?

Workshop2: Tuesday 2nd March 2021

 Application of NLP skills in the mediation process

Neuro Linguistic Programming is a psychological approach to how we think, communicate and behave. In this workshop you will learn how to create rapport; challenge limiting beliefs and understand patterns of human behaviour during the mediation process. Regardless of your previous knowledge in this area you will gain a deeper understanding of practical ways to enable and empower your clients.

Workshop3: Wednesday 10^th March 2021

Self-care, embodiment, triggers and process work

You will learn to recognise your own and others’ triggers through process work and experience how we hold conflict in our bodies. We will also examine our self-care practices and areas such as perspective taking and forgiveness.

Workshop4: Tuesday 23^rd March 2021

Framing, Influence & Persuasion

 Pre-framing, framing and reframing are some of the most important skills available to mediators. In this workshop we will explore through group discussion and practice the different ways in which framing, influence and persuasion, when used ethically, can facilitate the mediation process. This is a skill that when developed can be used both in our personal and professional lives.

Workshop5:  Wednesday 31^st March 2021

Bringing it all together’ – Learning Lab

In the final workshop we will bring everything covered on the course together through the use of mediation role play. You will also learn how to use a useful 6-step process in mediation. You can empower your clients to resolve conflict by creating rapport, eliciting information, labelling emotions, asking relevant questions, using loss aversion and challenging limiting beliefs. You will gain an understanding of these concepts and an opportunity to practice these skills.

Feedback from previous attendees:

'The course content was excellent, so interesting and opened up new possibilities for practice. Brian’s presentation skills - listening, commenting, explanation, handling of discussion etc. made today altogether an excellent learning experience'

'The workshop fully met my expectations’

‘It was an enjoyable course; I learned a great deal’

‘In particular, I wanted to let you know that your calm and open professional approach contributed considerably to putting participants at ease, thereby creating an environment online that was conducive to positive learning and to free expression. I think this is one of the reasons why the course was so successful, opening up safe and trusted space for people to reflect, interact, learn and grow under professional and experienced guidance’

‘Thanks so much Brian for a great series of workshops. I really enjoyed the group and the topics covered’

‘Enjoyable and refreshing – great topics’

‘Great mix of participants and I learnt lots from the role plays. Many thanks’

‘The handouts were useful and will add to my practice’

Costs:

 Complete workshop series: €350: includes registration fee and course materials.

 15 CPD points

Places are limited to ensure transfer of key learning.

To book a place or for further information:

Please contact Brian O’Connell brianoconnella@gmail.com  mob.0863803610

Places are only guaranteed once payment is made

 Cancellation Policy: Cancellations up to 14 days in advance of the series  commencing will entail a 25% administration fee. Cancellations within 14 days of the series commencing are not subject to a refund.

About the Trainer

 Brian O’Connell has wide experience as an Advanced Mediation Practitioner, Conflict Management Coach, N.L.P. Master Practitioner, Mind Coach, Trainer, College Lecturer and Facilitator. He has integrated mediation skills with mind coaching, neuro linguistic programming & conflict management coaching to offer an effective and practical approach to enable mediators and coaches to enhance their professional practice.

MII Code of Ethics and Practice 

Presented by Karen Erwin. 9 Feb & 11 Feb

ONLINE
3 CPD Points

MII Code of Ethics and Practice Training

Dates:  Delivered over two online sessions on Tuesday  9th February 9.30 - 11.00 AND Thursday 11th February 9.30 -11.00
             Each session is  1.5 hours long with a 5 minute break in the middle of each session. 

Venue: Online via Zoom 

Time:     9.30 - 11.00 This course is two sessions in the same week.

Cost:      €75.00

Trainer: Karen Erwin. Advanced MII member; Past President The MII and an experienced trainer. For further information and testimonials on the trainer www.erwin-mediation.ie

CPD: This  training qualifies for 3 CPD points and fulfils the MII requirement for completion of the mandatory MII Code of Ethics and Practice training which must be completed every 3 years to retain membership of the MII. It has full MII approval.

Training content: The training, which is based on the Code of Ethics and Practice of the MII, is an interactive training using practical examples to illustrate points; it updates the Code where appropriate with the provisions of the Mediation Act 2017; it allows for participants’ experiences to be shared and questions to be asked and answers discussed.

Outcomes of the training:

By the end of the training you will have an in-depth understanding of ethical and practical issues that might arise in practice; you will know the implications of the Mediation Act 2017 as it affects the Code; you will have had the opportunity to raise issues from your practice and be informed of issues that other mediators have; you will have refreshed your mediation knowledge.  

Testimonials on the training:

“Excellent presentation – obviously very well prepared and knowledgeable”

“This was one of the best training sessions learning events I have attended in the field of mediation. Karen was easy to listen to and a font of knowledge”

“Excellent presentation. Really useful discussion of the materials. Kept group alert and focussed. Gave examples for clarity and invited and responded to all questions.”

Booking Form:  training@erwin-mediation.ie

Payment: Payment by interbank transfer.

Training materials provided.

Payment secures booking

Email training@erwin-mediation.ie for a booking form

For further enquiries call 0872 415 844.

Places are allocated on a first come and paid first served. Max 15 people.

Cancellation: If you cancel 14 days before the course you will get a full refund less an administration cost of €20.00. You will not be entitled to any refund if you cancel less than 14 days before the course. A substitute person may attend in your stead with an administration charge of €20.00.

The trainer retains the right to cancel or postpone the course in the event that there are not sufficient numbers booked.  

GDPR: As this is mandatory training to retain membership of the MII the Trainer will be liaising with the MII in relation to attendances on the course and the booking form will seek permission under GDPR to provide attendance information to the MII as well as anonymised evaluation comments to assist their quality assurance.

Family & Separating Couples Mediation 32 Hour Course (Online)

Presented by RoundTable. Mornings from 9th February to 12th March 2021 Available Online Nationwide: To respond to the changing landscape of remote working environments, this programme is presented in its entirety as an online programme.

Fee: €990 CPD Course – Mediators’ Institute Ireland Accredited 32 CPD Points

For registration form please contact: info@roundtable.ie Dublin: 01 5390212 Cork: 021 2339350

Course Dates:

• February 2021: 9th, 12th, 16th, 19th, 25th 
• March  2021: 4th, 10th & 12th. 

Course Timings: 9.15 a.m. – 12.45 p.m.

Modules include:

Module 1: Couple Dynamics - Engaging in the Process

• Understanding relationships and family dynamics • Conflict in family separation and divorce • Grief and loss during family mediation • Values of family mediation • Mediating in emotionally difficult environments

Module 2: Family Mediation Process

• The mediator’s role in family mediation • The family mediation structure and process • Preparing the agreement to mediate • Screening for safety and domestic violence • Family financial matters including family assets, maintenance, pensions and liabilities

Module 3: Children in mediation

• Direct consultation with children • The voice of the child • Parents and children’s needs through separation • Mediating parenting agreements • Family sessions

Module 4: Child Protection Issues

• Identification of child protection issues in mediation • Types of abuse • Mediator’s role and responsibility in child protection • Reporting procedures • Mediating parenting agreements in the context of child protection

Module 5: Family Law Matters • Separation and divorce legislation • Family and child protection legislation • Domestic abuse legislation • Drafting a mediation settlements (Agreement)

Module 6: Domestic Abuse and Screening

• Screening for domestic violence • Supporting victims of domestic violence during the mediation process • Mediation and domestic violence orders • Mediating with couples where domestic violence is present • Safe termination of mediation

Trainer – Ber Barry-Murray

Ber is an advanced accredited mediator with the Mediators Institute of Ireland, with 20 years experience as an active mediator, having qualified in the Family Mediation Service in 2000.

In addition to her extensive work in mediating with families, she is on the Council of MII, with responsibility for the family sector. She has led the team who developed the template and guidelines on Separation Mediation Settlements; Parenting Mediation Settlements and Child Support Mediation Settlements.

Ber is on the panel of assessors for Advanced Mediators with MII, on the panel of mediators for the Medical Council, and panels for mediation in some of the large universities. She has mediated cases in family separation/divorce, child issues (both direct and indirect work with children), foster and family law cases.

Ber designed the family separating couples mediation training for MII in 2010 and has delivered this programme since that time. She is currently involved in the revision of this course. She brings extensive experience to the training in working with families, and delivers a practical applied programme through case study application.

Click here for more information on Ber’s experience https://www.roundtable.ie/our-people

Admission Requirements

32 hours training is designed for Mediators who have successfully completed an MII recognised Certified Mediation Training Programme or similar certified programmes which meet the MII criteria, and are wishing to work in the area of Family (separating couples) mediation.

For further information please contact Myrtle@roundtable.ie, Telephone: (01) 5390212 (021) 2339350; or view our website http://www.roundtable.ie/

RoundTable is committed to protecting the rights and privacy of individuals in line with the Data Protection Legislation

Presented by ARC Mediation. From January 28^th 2021, 2 full days and 4 half days 

FULLY BOOKED

On-line

32 CPD Points

The Programme:

The primary aim of this course is to provide participant mediators with essential knowledge and skills to enable them to provide a competent and supportive mediation service to enable separating couples to address issues in dispute. 

Admission Requirements:   

The course is designed for mediators who have completed an MII accredited 60 hour mediator training programme, or equivalent, and wish to practise in this area. 32 hour Family (Separating Couples) training is a mandatory requirement for MII mediators who practise in this area.

Organisation; Arc Mediation, team of 3 trainers

Principal Trainer; Dr Róisín O’Shea, Dip BA (Hns) law, PhD, Mediator.

Region; Online - Ireland

Dates; (Week 1) Full days 28^th, 29^th January 2021 & (Week 2) Half-days 4^th, 5^th February 2021 (Week 3) Half-days 11^th , 12^th February 2021.

Duration; 32 Hours

Price; € 1,500

Price includes training materials

Venue; ONLINE via Zoom

Week 1
28th January - Full day (9:15am to 6pm) - Family Law Modules 1 & 2

29th January - Full day (9:15am to 6pm) - Family Mediation Processes (& associated Role-play)

Week 2

4th Feb - afternoon (2pm to 6pm) - Parenting (& associated Role-play)

5th Feb - afternoon (2pm to 6pm) - Child Protection (& associated Role-play)

Week 3

11th Feb - afternoon (2pm to 6pm) - Domestic Violence & Screening Processes (& associated Role-play)

12th Feb - afternoon (2pm to 6pm) - Couple Dynamics (& Final Role-play “Putting it All Together”)

Bookings and enquiries; training@arcmedlaw.com, 051 348336, 087 2184763

Terms;

Booking is on a first-come, first-served basis with limited places per course to ensure a low attendee/presenter ratio. To book your place a deposit of 20% is required, paid inter-bank or by cheque, payable to Arc Mediation. This deposit is non-refundable unless Arc has to cancel the course. The training fee balance must be discharged no later than 16 days before the start date. Once full payment has been received your place is secured and you will receive a confirmation email. Full terms and conditions available on application including our Data Protection policy. Preparatory work will be required prior to attending each day of training.

 About Arc Mediation

The Arc mediation training team have significant experience in the field of mediation, in public and private sector practise, lecturing at third level or carrying out research in the field, and delivering mediation and mediation skills training.  www.arcmedlaw.com

 About Dr O’Shea

Roisin is a Partner in Arc Mediation and an award-winning former Irish Research Council scholar, who was awarded a Ph.D. in 2014 for her doctoral research on Judicial Separation and Divorce in the Circuit Court, Ireland. She is an expert in Family Law and has recently been appointed to the Child Maintenance Review Group by the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection 2020-2021. She has significant experience as a mediator completing hundreds of cases since 2009 including family, work-place and commercial mediations. Dr O’Shea is a Director of the Mediators Institute of Ireland since 2015, and a member of the Family Mediation Committee engaged in developing training and template documents for members. She has been appointed a Regional Leader in the field of mediation in 2020/2021 by Waterford Chamber of Commerce, is an approved Skillnet trainer delivering courses on mediation skills to managers, she has delivered training on family law and mediation to Bar Councils since 2013, has delivered Friarylaw training for Civil & Commercial Mediation, and is an experienced family mediation trainer  http://arcmedlaw.com/wp/people/

The programme comprises the following modules;  

Family Law (8 Hours) Module 1

• Current family law practices and recent case law in the area of Family Law. Family law legislation, including Judicial Separation and Divorce and an overview and analysis of the Mediation Act 2017.
• Domestic Violence legislation, including an overview and analysis of developments under the Domestic Violence Act 2018.
• Guardianship and the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015
• Separation Agreements, the legal context.

 Family Mediation Processes (8 Hours) Module 2

• Mediation process and Mediator obligations under the Mediation Act 2017
• The Agreement to Mediate
• Dealing with the Family Home, division of Marital assets, Spousal and Child maintenance, pensions and tax implications.
• Understanding issues of Succession
• Negotiating and drafting agreements; the essential dos and don’ts
• Mediation and the Courts

Parenting (4 Hours) Module 3

• Facilitating parents drawing up parenting plans and negotiating future arrangements for their children, in the best interests of the child and based on best practice informed by international research.
• Child-inclusive mediation and hearing the voice of the child

Children protection (4 hours) Module 4

• Children’s wellbeing
• Child protection legislation, Ireland and EU
• Child protection policies and procedures, and how to implement them

Domestic Violence & Screening Process (4 hours)

• Screening for domestic violence
• Identifying domestic violence/abuse, mediating safely and protecting clients
• Understanding Domestic Violence legislation in the context of mediation
•  Identifying and dealing with power imbalances

Couple dynamics (4 hours) Module 5

• The psychological dynamics of separation
• The complexity of separating couple dynamics in mediation
• Dealing with anger, frustration, loss in the mediation process
• Positive steps to assist clients deal with the emotional context as they move though the process of mediation

 Course Objectives;

1. To provide sufficient legal knowledge, including an over-view of the Mediation Act 2017, to enable participant mediators to understand and navigate the legal context of separating couples.
2. To provide an overview of child-inclusive mediation, to include parenting in the best interests of the child, the legal context, child protection issues and children’s experience of family breakdown.
3. To provide information on family mediation structures and processes
4. To provide insight and knowledge on couple dynamics during the separation process.
5. To provide insight and knowledge on Domestic Violence/Abuse and screening processes

Online Training

based on the book:

‘The Mediator’s Toolkit: Formulating and Asking Questions for Successful Outcomes’
Author and Trainer: Gerry O’Sullivan

Training course to radically sharpen, focus, and improve your mediation questioning skills to help you facilitate parties to successful and sustainable outcomes.

Presented by Gerry O’Sullivan, O’Sullivan Solutions

Online using Zoom
28 CPD Points 

Detailed information and booking:

https://www.osullivansolutions.ie/shtml/training_S_questions.shtml

This information includes a video advertisement as well as a complimentary video from Module 1.

Dates:

January course: 19, 20, 26, 27 January 2021
2.00pm - 5.30pm

Cost: €429 - four half-day sessions

Venue: Online via Zoom 

THEMES COVERED IN THE SEVEN MODULES

Each module starts with delivery of the theory behind the question type, then film footage of a role-played mediation demonstrates the use of that question and this is followed by a presentation of its application to mediation practice. Workbooks with comprehensive notes, exercises and discussion points are also provided.

Introductory Module 1

Module 1a: The Context for Creating a Paradigm Shift

• This module shows the goals that need to be achieved when asking questions in mediation. You will learn how the distortion, deletion and deficit of communicated information can hinder or block conflict solution and the physiological changes that occur when parties are in conflict.

Module 1b: Use of 'The S Questions Model' and its application

• This module gives an overview of the framework of the S Questions Model and the four dimensions of questions within that model. It also introduces the Film Case Scenario that will be used as the context for all the filmed role plays in the other modules and the Practice Case Scenario that will be used in exercises post learning.

Module 2

Shift Thinking: Journey of Inference Questions

• The film contained in this module sets the context for the dispute, giving the interpretations and assumptions that parties made about the conflict situation and how this led to their misunderstanding of each other and to the positional stance that they took. These Journey of Inference questions make an unconscious thinking process conscious and introduce new insight to the parties that creates understanding between them. They shift a party's perspective from their old narrative towards a new and more healthy narrative.
  (Demonstration film is done with both parties in the room)

Module 3

Shift Thinking: Other People Questions

• The first film in this module illustrates how to challenge Kathy’s Journey of Inference (interpretations, assumptions and conclusions) by using Other People Questions and demonstrates how this can be done in a safe way. The second film uses Other People Questions with both parties in the room together at a later phase of the mediation. These questions broaden the perspectives of parties and make it easier for them to respond to questions which might otherwise invoke a feeling of threat. They facilitate a party to think cognitively, rather than from an 'avoid-threat reflex' state and they create understanding and illustrate empathy between parties.
  (Demonstration films are done with one party and both parties in the room)

Module 4

The two films in this module cover separate meetings with one of the characters, Kathy, during which a paradigm shift starts to take place as a result of the questions she is asked. As a result, Kathy starts to become more congruent in her communication and will be better prepared for the joint meeting.

Module 4a: Shift Thinking: Neuro-Linguistic Programming based Questions

• These questions bring clarity and explore subjective realities, reconnecting a party's language, along with its deletions, distortions and generalisations, with their actual experience.  They separate a party's 'fears' from the 'facts' and support a party to move from a place of intransigence. These questions lead to an adjustment of a party's subjective reality and a paradigm shift in their thinking and approach.
  (Demonstration film is done with one party at a separate meeting)

Module 4b: Distinctions and Differences Questions

• These questions also bring clarity and explore subjective realities. Specifically. they enable a party to step back from the conflict and view it with an alternative perspective. The questions bring clarity, relevance and boundary to a conflict. They bring measurement regarding something that requires more precise information such as the extent of an impact on parties; the level of understanding reached; the progress made during the mediation process; the appropriateness of solutions etc. These questions lead to an adjustment of a party's subjective reality and a paradigm shift in their thinking and approach.
  (Demonstration film is done with one party at a separate meeting)

Module 5

Shift Thinking: Cognitive Elements Based Questions

• This film demonstrates a private meeting with Tom and it shows how to identify clashing cognitive elements resulting in cognitive dissonance within him. The mediator demonstrates how to use this knowledge as a means for a party to identify future actions in order to return to a state of cognitive consonance. By returning to this state, a party can start to think logically and make rational decisions. These questions gently and safely challenge a party that is strongly defending their position or who appears to be in 'denial'. They facilitate a party to explore their dissonance so that they can get to the root of their inner conflict, and make decisions about how they need to address their conflict in the joint session.
  (Demonstration films are done with one party at a separate meeting)

Module 6

Shift Thinking: Underlying Interests Questions

• The two films in this module show how asking questions that go below the surface of a party’s position can lead to the core of their conflict and lead to their underlying interests and needs. Once this is done, parties become less emotional and are able to think cognitively and make decisions. Identifying these conscious or unconscious underlying interests provides a platform from which appropriate and sustainable agreements that meet a party’s underlying interests, rather than their positional demands, can be reached.
  (Demonstration film is done with both parties in the room)

Module 7

The two films in this module cover separate meetings with one of the characters, Kathy, during which a paradigm shift starts to take place as a result of the questions she is asked. As a result, Kathy starts to become more congruent in her communication and will be better prepared for the joint meeting.

Module 7a: Future Focus Questions

• Future Focused questions can change the state of a person so that they begin to think logically rather than emotionally. This allows them to safely think through the kind of agreements that could meet their underlying interests and needs. These questions paint a possible hypothetical, conditional or consequential picture on which parties can reflect and make decisions, from outside their current paradigm. These questions move a party off the conflict treadmill and lessen the chance of a party having an amygdala hijack and thinking from an emotional perspective.
  (Demonstration films are done with one party on their own as well as with both parties in the room)

Module 7b: Shift Thinking: Reflective Connecting Questions

• Reflective Connecting questions facilitate a party or parties to see the cycle of conflict that developed between them and how each of their actions may have led to a reaction from the other.  They enable parties to make connections and links between various facets of a conflict, thus broadening and expanding their thinking. These questions increase understanding and facilitate the parties to agree actions should an incident like this arise in the future. 
  (Demonstration film is done with both parties in the room)

Testimonials

"Excellent course, Gerry’s warmth and enthusiasm was infectious."
                                                                                                Declan McBrearty, Irish Prison Service

"An essential next step for anyone who has done the theory of mediation and anyone who wants to up-skill."
                                                                               Muriel Walls, Walls & Toomey, Solicitors, Dublin

"If you want to learn from somebody who knows their job and loves it, this is the course for you. Gerry’s honesty and enthusiasm is infectious. Brilliant facilitation and invaluable knowledge."
                                                                                                                                Ken Quinn, Wexford

"This training is exceptionally informative and revealing - enlightening the possibilities of good practise in mediation."
                                                                                   Tracey Thompson, Tipperary County Council

"It is essential information for anyone mediating."
Mary Smyth, State Valuation Office, Dublin

"Attend."
                                                   Chris Dunne, Hannah Carney & Associates, Solicitors, Dublin

Detailed information and booking:

https://www.osullivansolutions.ie/shtml/training_S_questions.shtml

Presented by ARC Mediation. From December 10^th 2020, 2 full days and 4 half days

On-line  FULLY BOOKED

32 CPD Points

The Programme:

The primary aim of this course is to provide participant mediators with essential knowledge and skills to enable them to provide a competent and supportive mediation service to enable separating couples to address issues in dispute. 

Admission Requirements:   

The course is designed for mediators who have completed an MII accredited 60 hour mediator training programme, or equivalent, and wish to practise in this area. 32 hour Family (Separating Couples) training is a mandatory requirement for MII mediators who practise in this area.

Organisation; Arc Mediation, team of 3 trainers

Principal Trainer; Dr Róisín O’Shea, Dip BA (Hns) law, PhD, Mediator.

Region; Online - Ireland

Dates; (Week 1) Full days 10th, 11th December & (Week 2) Half-days 17th, 18th December 2020 (Week 3) Half-days 7^th, 8^th January

Duration; 32 Hours

Price; € 1,500

Price includes training materials

Bookings and enquiries; training@arcmedlaw.com, 051 348336, 087 2184763

 Terms;

Booking is on a first-come, first-served basis with limited places per course to ensure a low attendee/presenter ratio. To book your place a deposit of 20% is required, paid inter-bank or by cheque, payable to Arc Mediation. This deposit is non-refundable unless Arc has to cancel the course. The training fee balance must be discharged no later than 16 days before the start date. Once full payment has been received your place is secured and you will receive a confirmation email. Full terms and conditions available on application including our Data Protection policy. Preparatory work will be required prior to attending each day of training.

 About Arc Mediation

The Arc mediation training team have significant experience in the field of mediation, in public and private sector practise, lecturing at third level or carrying out research in the field, and delivering mediation and mediation skills training.  www.arcmedlaw.com

 About Dr O’Shea

Roisin is a Partner in Arc Mediation and an award-winning former Irish Research Council scholar, who was awarded a Ph.D. in 2014 for her doctoral research on Judicial Separation and Divorce in the Circuit Court, Ireland. She is an expert in Family Law, and has significant experience as a mediator completing hundreds of cases since 2009 including family, work-place and commercial mediations. She was appointed a Regional Leader in the field of mediation in 2019/2020 by Waterford Chamber of Commerce, is an approved Skillnet trainer delivering courses on mediation skills to managers, she has delivered training on family law and mediation to Bar Councils since 2013, and has delivered Friarylaw training for Civil & Commercial Mediation. http://arcmedlaw.com/wp/people/

  Family Law (8 Hours) Module 1

• Current family law practices and recent case law in the area of Family Law. Family law

legislation, including Judicial Separation and Divorce and an overview and analysis of the Mediation Act 2017.

• Domestic Violence legislation, including an overview and analysis of new developments  under the Domestic Violence Act 2018.
• Guardianship and the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015
• Separation Agreements, the legal context.

 Family Mediation Processes (8 Hours) Module 2

• Mediation process and Mediator obligations under the Mediation Act 2017
• The Agreement to Mediate
• Dealing with the Family Home, division of Marital assets, Spousal and Child maintenance, pensions and tax implications.
• Understanding issues of Succession
• Negotiating and drafting agreements; the essential dos and don’ts
• Mediation and the Courts

Parenting (4 Hours) Module 3

• Facilitating parents drawing up parenting plans and negotiating future arrangements for their children, in the best interests of the child and based on best practice informed by international research.
• Child-inclusive mediation and hearing the voice of the child

Children protection (4 hours) Module 4

• Children’s wellbeing
• Child protection legislation, Ireland and EU
• Child protection policies and procedures, and how to implement them

Domestic Violence & Screening Process (4 hours)

• Screening for domestic violence
• Identifying domestic violence/abuse, mediating safely and protecting clients
• Understanding Domestic Violence legislation in the context of mediation
•  Identifying and dealing with power imbalances

Couple dynamics (4 hours) Module 5

• The psychological dynamics of separation
• The complexity of separating couple dynamics in mediation
• Dealing with anger, frustration, loss in the mediation process
• Positive steps to assist clients deal with the emotional context as they move though the process of mediation

 Course Objectives;

1. To provide sufficient legal knowledge, including an over-view of the Mediation Act 2017, to enable participant mediators to understand and navigate the legal context of separating couples.
2. To provide an overview of child-inclusive mediation, to include parenting in the best interests of the child, the legal context, child protection issues and children’s experience of family breakdown.
3. To provide information on family mediation structures and processes
4. To provide insight and knowledge on couple dynamics during the separation process.
5. To provide insight and knowledge on Domestic Violence/Abuse and screening processes

Family (Separating Couples) 32 Hour Course, Dublin 

Presented by ARC Mediation. From November 5^th – 20^th 4 full days

THIS COURSE IS NOW FULLY BOOKED. NEW DATES WILL BE POSTED WHEN AVAILABLE

Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley

32 CPD Points

The Programme:

The primary aim of this course is to provide participant mediators with essential knowledge and skills to enable them to provide a competent and supportive mediation service to enable separating couples to address issues in dispute. 

Admission Requirements:   

The course is designed for mediators who have completed an MII accredited 60 hour mediator training programme, or equivalent, and wish to practise in this area. 32 hour Family (Separating Couples) training is a mandatory requirement for MII mediators who practise in this area.

Organisation; Arc Mediation, team of 3 trainers

Principal Trainer; Dr Róisín O’Shea, Dip BA (Hns) law, PhD, Mediator.

Region; Dublin, Ireland

Dates; (Week 1) 5th, 6th November & (Week 2) 19th, 20th November 2020

Duration; 32 Hours (4 day course)

Price; € 1,500

Price includes training materials, lunch, refreshments and car-parking

Venue; Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley, Clondalkin, Dublin

Week 1

5th November: 9:00 to 6pm

6th November; 9:15 to 6pm

Week 2

19th November: 9:15 to 6pm 

20th November: 9:15 to 6pm 

Bookings and enquiries; training@arcmedlaw.com, 051 348336, 087 2184763

 Terms;

Booking is on a first-come, first-served basis with limited places per course to ensure a low attendee/presenter ratio. To book your place a deposit of 20% is required, paid inter-bank or by cheque, payable to Arc Mediation. This deposit is non-refundable unless Arc has to cancel the course. The training fee balance must be discharged no later than 16 days before the start date. Once full payment has been received your place is secured and you will receive a confirmation email. Full terms and conditions available on application including our Data Protection policy. Preparatory work will be required prior to attending each day of training.

 About Arc Mediation

The Arc mediation training team have significant experience in the field of mediation, in public and private sector practise, lecturing at third level or carrying out research in the field, and delivering mediation and mediation skills training.  www.arcmedlaw.com

 About Dr O’Shea

Roisin is a Partner in Arc Mediation and an award-winning former Irish Research Council scholar, who was awarded a Ph.D. in 2014 for her doctoral research on Judicial Separation and Divorce in the Circuit Court, Ireland. She is an expert in Family Law and has significant experience as a mediator completing hundreds of cases since 2009 including family, work-place and commercial mediations. She was appointed a Regional Leader in the field of mediation in 2019/2020 by Waterford Chamber of Commerce, is an approved Skillnet trainer delivering courses on mediation skills to managers, she has delivered training on family law and mediation to Bar Councils since 2013, has delivered Friarylaw training for Civil & Commercial Mediation, and is an experienced family mediation trainer  http://arcmedlaw.com/wp/people/

  Family Law (8 Hours) Module 1

• Current family law practices and recent case law in the area of Family Law. Family law legislation, including Judicial Separation and Divorce and an overview and analysis of the Mediation Act 2017.
• Domestic Violence legislation, including an overview and analysis of developments under the Domestic Violence Act 2018.
• Guardianship and the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015
• Separation Agreements, the legal context.

 Family Mediation Processes (8 Hours) Module 2

• Mediation process and Mediator obligations under the Mediation Act 2017
• The Agreement to Mediate
• Dealing with the Family Home, division of Marital assets, Spousal and Child maintenance, pensions and tax implications.
• Understanding issues of Succession
• Negotiating and drafting agreements; the essential dos and don’ts
• Mediation and the Courts

Parenting (4 Hours) Module 3

• Facilitating parents drawing up parenting plans and negotiating future arrangements for their children, in the best interests of the child and based on best practice informed by international research.
• Child-inclusive mediation and hearing the voice of the child

Children protection (4 hours) Module 4

• Children’s wellbeing
• Child protection legislation, Ireland and EU
• Child protection policies and procedures, and how to implement them

Domestic Violence & Screening Process (4 hours)

• Screening for domestic violence
• Identifying domestic violence/abuse, mediating safely and protecting clients
• Understanding Domestic Violence legislation in the context of mediation
•  Identifying and dealing with power imbalances

Couple dynamics (4 hours) Module 5

• The psychological dynamics of separation
• The complexity of separating couple dynamics in mediation
• Dealing with anger, frustration, loss in the mediation process
• Positive steps to assist clients deal with the emotional context as they move though the process of mediation

 Course Objectives;

1. To provide sufficient legal knowledge, including an over-view of the Mediation Act 2017, to enable participant mediators to understand and navigate the legal context of separating couples.
2. To provide an overview of child-inclusive mediation, to include parenting in the best interests of the child, the legal context, child protection issues and children’s experience of family breakdown.
3. To provide information on family mediation structures and processes
4. To provide insight and knowledge on couple dynamics during the separation process.
5. To provide insight and knowledge on Domestic Violence/Abuse and screening processes

MII Code of Ethics and Practice 

Presented by Karen Erwin. 22 and 24 Sept 2020

ONLINE
3 CPD Points

MII Code of Ethics and Practice Training

"A superb online training. I found it excellent and most informative"

Dates:  Delivered over two online sessions on Tuesday 22nd September  11.30 - 13.00 AND Thursday 24th September 11.30 - 13.00

             Each session is  1.5 hours long

Venue: Online via Zoom 

Time:     11.30 to 13.00

Cost:      €75.00

Trainer: Karen Erwin. Advanced MII member; Past President The MII and an experienced trainer. For further information and testimonials on the trainer www.erwin-mediation.ie

CPD: This  training qualifies for 3 CPD points and fulfils the MII requirement for completion of the mandatory MII Code of Ethics and Practice training which must be completed every 3 years to retain membership of the MII. It has full MII approval.

Training content: The training, which is based on the Code of Ethics and Practice of the MII, is an interactive training using practical examples to illustrate points; it updates the Code where appropriate with the provisions of the Mediation Act 2017; it allows for participants’ experiences to be shared and questions to be asked and answers discussed.

Outcomes of the training:

By the end of the training you will have an in-depth understanding of ethical and practical issues that might arise in practice; you will know the implications of the Mediation Act 2017 as it affects the Code; you will have had the opportunity to raise issues from your practice and be informed of issues that other mediators have; you will have refreshed your mediation knowledge.  

Testimonials on the training:

“Excellent presentation – obviously very well prepared and knowledgeable”

“This was one of the best training sessions learning events I have attended in the field of mediation. Karen was easy to listen to and a font of knowledge”

“Excellent presentation. Really useful discussion of the materials. Kept group alert and focussed. Gave examples for clarity and invited and responded to all questions.”

Booking Form:  training@erwin-mediation.ie

Payment: Payment by interbank transfer.

Training materials provided.

Payment secures booking

Email training@erwin-mediation.ie for a booking form

For further enquiries call 0872 415 844.

Places are allocated on a first come and paid first served. 

Cancellation: If you cancel 14 days before the course you will get a full refund less an administration cost of €20.00. You will not be entitled to any refund if you cancel less than 14 days before the course. A substitute person may attend in your stead with an administration charge of €20.00.

The trainer retains the right to cancel or postpone the course in the event that there are not sufficient numbers booked.  

GDPR: As this is mandatory training to retain membership of the MII the Trainer will be liaising with the MII in relation to attendances on the course and the booking form will seek permission under GDPR to provide attendance information to the MII as well as anonymised evaluation comments to assist their quality assurance.