Speak Your Truth Mediation

What Kind of Mediation Are You Looking For?

A formal, legal pathway through systems and processes - or a space to sit down, make sense of what’s going on, and move forward? We offer independent, practical mediation support focused on clarity, understanding, and real movement - without the pressure of formal outcomes. Not all want or need to go down a costly, legal pathway, but not sure where else to turn. We are here.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a process where two people come together in a neutral and supportive space to talk things through, and work toward understanding and moving forward with a specific issue or conflict. My role as mediator is to listen to both parties. Provide a safe space where each can be heard without judgment, blame, accusation, or interruption. I facilitate the process for this to happen - and remain neutral at all times.

It is not a space for pointing fingers, blaming, or accusing. It’s not:
“Yeah, but you said…"
“No, I didn’t. You won't listen and I don't agree."

It’s not about rehashing who’s right or wrong. Mediation is about hearing each other’s perspectives, owning your part, and focusing on what needs to happen next - not what happened then. It’s also about respect for each other in the process - hearing and understanding each person.

When people contact us for mediation, they usually have a fair idea of what they want to achieve. Some are at an impasse and need space to air it, make sense of it, and find clarity - and possibly a way forward. Not all see eye to eye, but they care enough to come into this space. They recognise the need for guidance, support, and a neutral perspective to help them see what is happening for them.

Mediation provides a platform to air concerns, identify issues and barriers, and move forward - openly, without fear of judgement or ridicule.

It is an honest space.
A privileged space.
A safe space to come to.

PLEASE NOTE: We are not court-appointed, registered, or affiliated with formal legal mediation services (including Family Dispute Resolution). Our work is independent, education-based, and focused on practical support and resolution. Designed to be clear, cut through, and with impact.

Who is Mediation For?

Mediation is for any two people navigating conflict and wanting to address issues and areas of concern in a structured and supportive environment. The goal is fairness, respect, and equality on both sides. This could include:

· Partners or ex-partners

· Employees in the workplace

· Friends or whānau

· Colleagues, flatmates, or business connections

Together, we will name the issues, talk through them one by one, and aim for clarity and a way forward that works for both - where possible.

Sometimes, resolution isn’t immediate or complete - and that’s okay. Not all situations reach a fully resolved outcome. What becomes clearer, and what happens next, remains with the people involved. If more time or support is needed, that can be discussed.

The role of mediation is to ensure both parties are heard, and to support movement toward understanding or agreement where possible. Often, both parties may leave without full resolution - but with greater clarity, and the ability to decide their own next steps.

What Can Be Resolved Through Mediation?

Every situation is unique - and so are the people involved. Mediation provides a structured, neutral space where issues can be addressed and explored, with the goal of reaching clarity and, where possible, agreement. The mediator’s primary role is to facilitate that process. Not every mediation experience reaches resolution - and that’s okay. It is not the mediator’s role or responsibility to “fix” the issues or disagreements at hand.

Some common reasons people come to mediation include:

1. Resolving longstanding or recent personal or relational conflicts.

2. Working through grievances or misunderstandings that are impacting trust or connection.

3. Reaching mutual understanding, respect, and practical next steps.

4. Rebuilding communication or trust – whether in a personal, professional, or shared environment.

Not all discussions result in full agreement. Sometimes people go as far as they can, and while it may appear that no resolution has been reached between them, it is up to each person to decide where to next. Often, one or both may walk away with their own internal clarity - and be settled with that.

At times, parties reach an impasse and cannot progress further in the moment. Stepping away to reflect, regroup, and consider next steps can, in itself, be progress. Whatever the outcome of mediation, parties are empowered to decide what comes next. They have options.

When Mediation Brings More to the Surface

Mediation is designed to support resolution around a specific issue. However, the process can sometimes bring deeper emotional patterns or long-held dynamics into the open. Unresolved issues can become very apparent.

While mediation is not counselling, I remain mindful of what is surfacing through the process. If deeper needs or emotions arise, we pause - respectfully - and consider whether another level of support may be helpful. Counselling may be suggested as an option to work through unresolved issues - the choice always remains with the individual.

Sometimes, by the end of the process, what people thought they wanted has shifted. They may choose to focus on communication, or take time to think things through. The process remains flexible and responsive to what is needed. Others may simply walk away — each deciding what is best for them.

A Real-World Example – Mediation for Separation

Some years ago, I was approached by a couple in a long-term de facto relationship who recognised that continuing together would only hinder both their growth. Though they still cared for each other, tensions had built over time. One party, in particular, felt the need to end the relationship in a safe space – free from the fear of being overwhelmed or overpowered by the dynamic. They both sought a respectful process to separate, despite their different levels of readiness.

During mediation, we created a neutral space for each of them to express their concerns and needs. By working through those tensions, they eventually reached an agreement that allowed them to separate on mutually respectful terms. The process provided the clarity and safety they both needed to move forward separately, with a shared understanding that continuing together would only be detrimental.

My Approach to Mediation

My role as a mediator is to remain neutral and non-judgmental. I guide, support, and facilitate a structured and supportive process. I provide a privileged space so both parties can speak freely — without interruption, judgment, or accusation.

I value clarity, transparency, and accountability. I’m open, straightforward, and I keep it real — for myself, and for the people I work with. I listen attentively to both parties, reflect back what I hear, and support movement toward clarity and a way forward. I do not promise or guarantee outcomes — and often, resolution is not reached in one session. My role is not to fix.

I do not take sides. I do not lean toward one person more than the other. I do not make judgments. What I do is respect each person and the reason they have come to mediation. I wear one hat — mediator — and carry that role with integrity, holding space for both parties equally.

This is about them.
And about me showing up in the right way to support them through it.

What I offer in Mediation

I bring many years of lived experience — navigating health issues, relational dynamics, separation and divorce, financial pressures, business, self-employment, and life’s bigger challenges. I’ve worked across counselling, training, communication coaching, and mediation settings where understanding, empathy, and accountability matter.

I am a Certified Train the Trainer, with training in facilitation and conflict resolution, along with group leadership, personal and communication skills, stress management, and family communication. These skills support the way I work — practical, grounded, and focused on real-life situations.

I believe most people who come to mediation already have a sense of why they’re there. They’re not looking to be told what to do — they’re looking for someone impartial, professional, and grounded to guide them through it.

That’s what I offer: a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where self-respect and respect for others can coexist, and where clarity and meaningful outcomes are possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is mediation confidential?
Yes. What is said in mediation stays in mediation – unless both parties agree to share information. Your privacy is respected at all times.

Is this counselling?
No. Mediation focuses on addressing specific issues or conflicts. It’s not therapy or emotional healing, though strong emotions can arise. I hold space for these respectfully, while helping keep the process on track.

What if the other person doesn’t want to come?
Mediation requires both parties’ willingness. No one is forced to participate, so it only works if both want to engage.

Is mediation legally binding?
No. Any agreement reached is not legally binding. Both parties may choose to record what has been discussed or agreed for their own records. A written summary can be prepared on request. This is not a standard part of the mediation process and may involve a reasonable additional fee.

What does it cost?
Private mediation for two people (non-legal, personal/professional focus):

Standard hourly rate: $150 + GST and $225 + GST (1.5 hours).
WK/PH/AH hourly rate: $175 + GST, and $262.50 + GST (1.5 hours).

How does mediation work?

The process promotes neutrality, acceptance and non-judgment. I facilitate a process where both parties can possibly work toward fair and mutually agreed outcomes. Here’s what to expect:

• Initial Contact: You make contact and can ask any questions. If you choose to proceed, we book your first appointment.

• Follow-Up Summary: A written summary of what was discussed or agreed can be prepared on request. This is not a standard part of the process and may involve a reasonable additional fee.

We look forward to hearing from you, working with you, gaining clarity and insight.

“Sometimes everything works out, sometimes some things work out, and sometimes nothing works out.” (RA)

WCS vs Formal Mediation

Know it. See it. Speak it. Own it.

Mediation isn’t just about resolution – its about reclaiming your voice!