The WDRC upholds stringent standards for mediators-in-training in order to ensure that the service our clients receive is high caliber and professional. The majority of our mediation services are provided by volunteers. At a minimum, all of our mediators have completed the professional mediation training, a practicum program in which they have been evaluated and certified according to the standards set forth by Resolution Washington and the Washington Mediation Association (WMA). Our practicum is an approved WMA Practicum Program. Family mediators have taken at least 24 additional hours of Family Mediation Training, and completed an additional practicum program. Many of our mediators also have backgrounds and experience in human resources, law, healthcare, education, and community planning, which enhance their skill sets and sensitivity to a variety of different types of disputes.
In order to become certified as a mediator, you must complete the following steps:
Complete the Professional Mediation Training
Apply and be admitted to the Practicum Program
Complete the Practicum Program, including a mock mediation assessed by WDRC certification team
Once certified, fulfill annual continuing education hours and actively mediate
The Mediation Practicum Program is a rigorous process. If you are considering pursuing mediator certification, please carefully review this document. Once admitted to the program most people take 12-18 months to reach certification. If you are interested in family or other specialized mediation certification, please note that advanced training in the topic area and additional practicum steps will be required.
Application Documents:
We typically accept new practicum students twice a year. The number of available practicum spaces is assessed annually and is based on caseload and practicum capacity.
We are not currently accepting applications, and anticipate opening another round in late Spring 2024. If you are interested in learning more please email cynthiaw@whatcomdrc.org