Interested in becoming a certified mediator?
“Why Become a Mediator?” video courtesy of Resolution Washington.
The Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center upholds rigorous mediator training standards to ensure our clients receive the highest quality services. The majority of our mediation services are provided by volunteers.
At minimum, all of our mediators have completed a 40-hour Professional Mediation Training and a practicum program that complies with the standards set by Resolution Washington and the Washington Mediation Association (WMA). Our Mediation Practicum Program is an approved WMA Practicum.
Family mediators have taken at least an additional 24-hour Family Mediation Training and completed an additional practicum program. Many of our mediators also have backgrounds in human resources, law, healthcare, education, and urban planning, which enhance their skills in mediating a variety of disputes.
To become a certified mediator, you must:
Complete 40 hours of Professional Mediation Training
Apply and be admitted to the Practicum Program
Complete the Practicum, including an evaluated final mediation
Once certified, actively mediate cases and fulfill annual continuing education hours
Our Mediation Practicum Program is a serious commitment. If you’re considering applying, please carefully review the program guidelines. Once admitted, most students take 18-24 months to complete the practicum and become certified. If you’re interested in family mediation or another specialized mediation certification, please note that advanced training and additional practicum hours are required.
Application materials:
Mediation Practicum Written Exam (download)
Exam Settlement Agreement Template (download)
If you’re interested in learning more or applying to the practicum program, please email Cynthia, our Mediation Program Manager, at cynthiaw@whatcomdrc.org.