The practical steps to becoming a mediator in BC can seem confusing. Unlike law, dentistry or other professions, mediation is not a regulated field with a standardized entry process. There are various ways to develop expertise, gain practical experience, and build a thriving practice. Though this allows for a lot of flexibility and ease-of-entry, it also means the public is at risk. Anyone can call themselves a mediator and charge for their services, which could harm clients, damage the reputation of the mediation process, or in some cases, lead to violations of the law (particularly in separation/divorce cases).
Mediate BC exists primarily to overcome some of these challenges and to protect the public. Though mediators don't have to join a Rostering organization like Mediate BC, it is strongly recommended. It allows mediators to better serve clients and be responsible practitioners. To be listed as a Registered Roster Mediator (RRM), mediators have to be sufficiently qualified (see criteria for admission) and maintain various standards and expectations (see how we protect the public). To read more about the benefits of joining the Mediate BC roster, see the Applying to the Rosters page.
We recognize not all prospective mediators can or want to fulfill the relatively stringent Mediate BC admissions standards. That's why we've provided the following information to help you on your road to becoming a mediator.
Generally, the steps to becoming a mediator can be broken down to three parts:
Be sure to take courses that focus specifically on the process of mediation, especially ones that use roleplay exercises as they are often the most useful.
Here are a few of the common training organizations in BC:
For more options, including various online courses, visit Resources for Mediators.
As mentioned above, we recognize that not all prospective mediators hope to join a Mediate BC roster. That being said, it might be helpful to see the Mediate BC training requirements in our Applying to the Roster page to help provide direction as you plan your courses.
Learning to successfully apply the skills learned in training is a critical link in making the transition from being trained as a mediator to becoming a mediator.
Many people are gaining experience by co-mediating with Registered Roster Mediators and in some cases developing a mentoring framework. Both co-mediation and a mentorship framework require that mediators collaboratively plan their joint approach to each mediation. Gaining mediation experience through mentorship or co-mediation helps hone the application of the skills learned in training.
Our short blog series On Co-Mediation explores some of the issues that should be thought through when approaching a potential co-mediator.
This general term typically refers to safeguarding yourself and your clients along with a commitment to ethical behaviour.
Maintaining a professional reputation with your mediation clients is vital. Many mediators choose to do this by:
Being listed with a Rostering organization (like Mediate BC) represents a significant milestone in the development of a mediation practice. It means you have met their requirements for admission (typically encompassing training and experience requirements) and often provides you with access to Standards of Conduct and Complaints Processes. Some Rostering organizations also offer discounted group mediation insurance (like Mediate BC’s program with NFP Canada) and other options that may continue to help you grow and develop your practice. To read more about the benefits of becoming a Mediate BC Registered Roster Mediator, see the Applying to the Rosters page.
1. Get some training
2. Gain experience
3. Safeguard yourself through professionalism
Remember, mediating without training can be hazardous to your business, your clients, and possibly in violation of the law in some instances. We recommend you read this page carefully before embarking on your journey to becoming a mediator.