Going through a divorce does not have to be as stressful as depicted in many shows and movies. Spouses that can communicate and are willing to work together for a fair outcome are often able to go through the process outside of the courtroom.
Mediation has gained in popularity because of its many benefits. Integrative mediation may be even more helpful for divorcing spouses, as it is a collaborative process.
How mediation works
According to FindLaw, mediation generally consists of the two spouses and a neutral mediator. The mediator works with each side so they can come up with a divorce agreement together. Topics of discussion include debt and asset division, living arrangements, alimony and a parenting plan. The process encourages honest and collaborative conversations while minimizing conflicts. When there are conflicts, the mediator helps resolve them, often by offering alternative solutions.
Mediation is beneficial in that it is much cheaper and faster than litigation, the two parties are in greater control of the outcome, the outcome is equitable, there is less stress on families and it is a confidential process.
Benefits of integrative mediation
Even with traditional mediation, each side may confer with their own professionals, such as financial experts, attorneys or therapists, outside of the mediation process. Psychology Today discusses that with integrative mediation, these professionals take part in the actual mediation sessions.
With everyone working together, not only is there more collaboration, but there is also more coordination to come up with a win-win outcome. The types of professionals that take part in the discussions can also vary depending on the couple’s specific situation, such as if they are discussing child custody or are figuring out how to divide a jointly owned business.
