Hosted by LESA in Alberta from 9:00 am on May 7, 2026 to 4:30 pm on May 8, 2026 (multi-day event)

Link: https://www.lesaonline.org/program/advanced-family-mediation/

*** START AND END TIMES AREN'T PUBLISHED YET, CHECK THE AGENDA BEFORE ATTENDING ***

With limited court availability, obligations under family law legislation and rules requiring ADR processes, and evolving court protocols, the need to be well-versed in family mediation has never been greater. Deepen your knowledge and take your mediation skills to the next level in this two-day advanced course. Topics will include:

What every mediator needs to know
– Integration of early brain and biological development and toxic stress effects
– Family, domestic, and intimate partner violence in mediation
– Appropriate screening for violence in mediation
Managing ethical and boundary issues
– What do you need to leave at the door?
– Bias
Managing high conflict clients and situations
– Mental illness
– Neurodiverse behaviours
– Safety and security
– Who is appropriate for mediation – cutting to the chase
Mediating with best interests
– Through what lens?
– Integrating the voice of the child
Putting it all together
– Communication skills generally
– Competency inclusive communication
– Cultural awareness
– Adaptation
– Sensitivity in mediation
Pre-Requisite: Prior completion of LESA’s Mediation of Family and Divorce Conflicts is a pre-requisite for registration in this course. Equivalents will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis (send inquiries to programs@lesa.org).

Digital course materials will be distributed prior to the commencement of the course. Advance preparation is expected.

This course offers both in-person and online registrations. In-person participation includes opportunities to discuss topics with course instructors during morning, afternoon, and lunch breaks. For those attending online, participation is required and your device will need to be equipped with a camera, microphone, and speakers.