Who we are
Services
Familhy Dispute Resolution
We offer a range of mediation services. These include family dispute resolution for separated couples seeking to resolve disputes regarding child custody, parenting arrangements and property settlements.
Child Inclusive Practice (CIP)
We also offer Child Inclusive Practice. While Child Focussed Practice is generally practiced by all mediators, and ensures that the child's interests are kept at the forefront in considering arrangements for the children, Child Inclusive Practice invludes the voice of the child in determining arrangements. This occurs through conducting interviews of each child in the family. The interview tool and resources used during the interview are chosen to suit the age and developmental stage of the child. The approach of the consultant is also crucial to maximise the development of trust and assist the child to feel comfortable and engaged n the interview.
Mediation
We also provide mediation services for civil disputes and to industry (including government departments, local government, NFP groups, business, clubs & associations). Matters can include civil, commercial, council related issues including planning, committee, board and stakeholder disputes, wills and estates and disability.
Counselling
We also offer counselling and life coaching for individuals, couples and families (including children and teens). This involves assisting clients to clearlhy identify their concerns and preferences (understanding what motivates them), to understand how the family as a system impacts the experiences and actions of it's members, how to communicate effectively and be heard (regardless of what you wish to communicate), and plan for positive and growthful change either for the individual or the family as a whole.
What is a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner?
A Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) is an independent, impartial person who assists separated or divorced couples to resolve disputes related to their separation - in particular regarding children's living arrangements and property. The FDRP assists through a process that guides the participants in clarifying the issues, understanding their origins and the differing perspectives of each party, to enable the identification of viable options for reaching mutually agreeable solutions. The process is also child focussed – meaning that in considering parenting arrangements, parents should focus on arrangements that are in the best interest of their children. The FDRP encourages greater involvement by both parents in the children's lives after separation; seek to ensure protection of children from violence and abuse and provides psychoeducation to help separated parents understand the source of their disputes. The FDRP helps the parties to improve their communication skills and ultimately provide a more healthy emotional environment (free of high parental conflict, violence or seriously dysfunctional behaviours) in which their children feel safe and have the opportunity to thrive.
Parenting Plans and Court Orders
Parenting plans, separation and/or financial agreements can then be prepared to document the agreed arrangements. The agreed arrangements can also be made legally binding through legal certification and/or lodging an application with the Family Court for Consent Orders. We can assist with this process by ensuring the arrangements are worded correctly and assist you to lodge your application.
Transparency and consistency in our service philosophy and delivery
We aim to provide transparency and consistency in our service philosophy and delivery.
Given that Family Dispute Resolution is a relatively new profession, research has shown that to date, there is little consistency in how the service is delivered or transparency in the philosophy held by individual practitioners. I believe it is important that new clients are aware of the practitioner's philosophy, practice procedures and method of delivery to ensure it fits with them comfortably so that the success of the process is maximised.
Our recent survey of the community has indicated what is important to clients to achieve from FDR or mediation. These include:
- understanding the problem
- help to find solutions to solve the problem, and
- learning new skills to resolve problems now and in the future.
Delivery methodology
Our delivery methodology varies according to client profile, disposition and situational needs, but underpinned by a broad range of scientifically proven processes and techniques learned through my training as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP), National Mediator Accreditation training (NMAS), background in psychology and experience.
Philosophy
The philosophy that underpins our services is based on a range of therapeutic concepts. These include:
- Communication skills - a strong belief that effective communication techniques are key to developing understanding of each others points of view and successfully resolving conflict and solidifying relationships.
- Family Systems Theory - a sound knowledge of how individuals are shaped by biological, environmental and cultural factors is crucial in understanding values, beliefs, expectations and communication patterns between individuals.
- Other approaches - Psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, developmental and humanistic perspectives.
Research & Actioning of Change Initiatives
Conciliate SA recognizes that Family Dispute Resolution Practice is a relatively new profession. We review studies that have been carried out [such as the Family Law Reform Commission (FLRC)] that highlight both successes and gaps in the quality and delivery of the service. The results are considered in terms of compliance with existing law and where gaps exist, recommendations are made for changes to or further promotion of policies under these laws.
If professionals or users of FDR services have any experiences of the system that they beleive are not satisfactory, or where gaps exist, please provide your comments via our 'Contact Us' form here
Getting in Touch
Feel free to call for a 30 min FREE no obligation discussion