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What Is Mediation?

Mediation is a confidential process used to resolve conflicts in an amicable manner. An impartial mediator directs the process and facilitates the communication between the parties to explore solutions and obtain a mutually satisfactory agreement.
 

Mediation Objectives

The objective of mediation is for parties in conflict to participate in good faith in a dialogue regarding their dispute, to present their points of view and to explore options for settlement to reach a mutually satisfactory resolution of their dispute.
 

What Happens in Mediation?

The mediator welcomes the participants and explains the mediation process, the mediator's role in the process and the rules of mediation. The participants present the issues they want to resolve, explore their interests and options and look for a mutual resolution. If the parties reach an agreement and sign it, this agreement may have the validity of a contract.
 

The Mediator's Role

A mediator is an impartial third party who is trained to listen to the parties, clarify the parties' issues and facilitate communication to help the participants negotiate in a flexible, private setting.
 

Cases Appropriate for Mediation

Conflicts between neighbors, families, merchants and consumers, landlords and tenants, employers and employees and other disputes are appropriate for mediation.
 

Mediation Benefits

Mediation is voluntary, flexible, economic, fast and confidential. If an agreement is reached, everyone wins.

Looking for a Mediator in Texas?

If you are looking for a mediator in Texas, here are some resources:

TAM (Texas Association of Mediators) Member Locator

Find a TMCA (Texas Mediator Credentialing Association) Credentialed Mediator

Texas-Based Dispute Resolution Centers 

How Do I Become a Mediator in Texas?

You will need to have completed a 40-Hour Basic Mediation Training. Mediation trainings can be found on the Texas Mediator Trainers Roundtable (TMTR) website as well as through Texas-based Dispute Resolution Centers and many Texas colleges and universities.

Are Mediators Licensed in Texas?

No. In lieu of licensing mediators, voluntary credentialing was established in 2001 through the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association (TMCA). If you want to apply for a TMCA Credential, your 40-Hour Basic Mediation Training must meet TMCA’s training standards. All the basic mediation trainings listed on TMTR’s website as well as those offered by Texas-based Dispute Resolution Centers meet TMCA’s training standards.

If you completed your basic mediation training in a state other than Texas and such course meets the training standards of the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association (TMCA), other than the Texas-specific components, then completion of an approved Texas-Specific Mediator Short Course will meet the basic mediation training requirements of TMCA. 

What Are the Requirements for Court-Appointed Mediators under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 154.052?