Interested in becoming a mediator?
Upcoming VOLUNTEER MEDIATOR TRAINING
September 2023
We invite you to join our volunteer mediator training for our Visitation Program, where you can play a crucial role in helping families navigate the challenges of co-parenting. At CMS, we believe in the transformative power of mediation to facilitate constructive dialogue and support parents in creating effective parenting plans. Through this training, you will acquire mediation skills, gain valuable experience, and make a positive impact on the lives of parents and children in our community.
- Comprehensive Training:
The training program is about 40 hours in September( call or email the office for dates and times) and will be conducted primarily via Zoom, with the possibility of in-person sessions for additional role-playing exercises. Our experienced trainers will provide comprehensive instruction in mediation techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and the legal aspects of parenting plans. Through both classroom work and role plays, you will receive valuable insights and practical skills necessary for effective mediation.
- Make a Positive Impact:
As a volunteer mediator, you will have the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of families in our community. By helping parents reach consensus and prioritize the best interests of their children, you will contribute to the creation of sustainable co-parenting arrangements and promote more harmonious family relationships.
- Gain Professional Experience:
The skills and experience gained during this program can be invaluable for personal growth and your current and future career.
- Apprenticeship and Skill Development:
Upon successful completion of the training, you will engage in an apprenticeship with experienced mediators. This hands-on experience allows you to apply your skills in real-world scenarios, guided by seasoned professionals. The apprenticeship will continue until both you and the CMS staff are confident in your abilities, usually involving a few mediations.
We strongly encourage individuals with good communication skills, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others to join us. No prior mediation experience is necessary, but we do require references and a background check to maintain a safe and respectful environment for clients. You will need to attend all classes. There is a $35 fee to help offset expenses.
We also require partcipants to agree to mediate with CMS for one year, commiting to at least 6-8 hours per month. Generally mediations last 1-3 hours with the possibility for additional sessions.
Advanced Training Option and Opportunity for CME and CLE hours:
If you wish to to work toward becoming a listed Civil Rule 31 mediator and meet the state qualifications (Rule 31: section 14), the hours completed during this training can count towards the required training hours. After mediating with CMS for one year, you will have the opportunity to pursue additional training to complete the Rule 31 requirements at a reduced rate. ( additional fee required) If you need CLE or CME hours, you may acquire hours through this training at an discounted rate. Contact our office for details
To register for the training or obtain more information, please contact the CMS office at 865.463.6888 or email amyh@cms-tn.org. Please note that the class size is limited, so early registration is recommended. For more information on Visitation Mediation check out this link
