Learn To Mediate
Interested in joining our team of volunteer mediators? Start by completing our Basic Mediation Training (BMT) or an equivalent training from another Dispute Resolution Center*. Once you have received your BMT certificate of completion, the next step is to apply to participate in our practicum.
Practicum & Certification
The practicum at CDR is one of the largest and most active in Washington State that meets and exceeds the state standards for certification set forth by Resolution Washington (the association of Washington State Dispute Resolution Centers – DRCs).
Practicum Requirements
This practicum is open to anyone who has completed an approved 40-hour basic mediation training. The fee is $500 for CDR training graduates and $700 training completed outside of the Center.
If you have taken or wish to take your basic mediation training somewhere other than CDR, specific documentation is required:
- Submit a copy of your Certificate of Completion for the 40-hour course
- Submit a copy of the agenda of the training
Applications and alternate basic training submissions must be reviewed and approved by the CDR. After completing the practicum, there is a continued commitment to:
- being an active volunteer mediator with the CDR over the next two-year period
- volunteering for a minimum of six mediations
- participate in at least four mediator In-Service trainings at CDR
Practicum Details
Each practicum is individualized and all will include:
- observing six to eight mediations
- solo mediating a simulated mediation, including a personal evaluation and feedback from an experienced proctor
- co-mediating a minimum of six cases with certified mediators
Certification Details
Once the practicum is complete, the applicant will:
- request formal certification from a certification committee member
- submit a narrative review of skill development through his or her practicum
- submit his or her plan for further skill development and commitment to CDR during your re-certification term
If skill goals are met, certification is awarded. Otherwise, additional opportunities for skill building are provided in a revised plan.
Practicum Application Process
- Mail the following to CDR:
- Internship application
- Resume
- Complete Practicum Entry Exercise
Address
Center for Dialog & Resolution
Attn: Practicum
717 Tacoma Ave. So.
Tacoma, WA 98402
- CDR will contact you to set up an appointment for an orientation/interview in which you will be asked to:
- Sign a Volunteer Commitment and Confidentiality form
- Sign a Drug-Free form
- Pay for the practicum ($500 for CDR trainees, $700 for others)
For More information Contact Us
“Mediation” is a voluntary process for bringing together, with a mediator, two or more parties who have a disagreement with one another. A mediator’s role is to facilitate communication between disputing parties, with a goal to peacefully resolve the conflict. The exact part a mediator plays looks slightly different for each type of mediation; however, it often includes all parties sitting in one space together, whether in-person or on-line, with two trained mediators helping to work toward a mutually agreeable solution.
All of the Center’s mediators have a certification in mediation, provided on site through our practicum, or at another location that meets the required standards put forth by Resolution Washington (the association of Washington State Dispute Resolution Centers). Our mediators come from a wide variety of backgrounds, all with one thing in common: a passion to serve and promote peace within the community.
* If your mediation Certificate Of Completion was taken elsewhere, please contact Associate Director Jen Unger to assess your basic mediation training; special conditions may apply.