Texas Association of Mediators | Conference Sessions

At the heart of mediation is a simple but powerful purpose: helping people navigate conflict through articulating their interests and self-determination. This session explores how artificial intelligence can help us reclaim our most valuable resource—our presence. Rather than replacing the mediator's judgment, empathy, or intuition, AI should be used to automate routine tasks, organize information, and support case management, freeing mediators to listen more deeply, remain fully engaged, and focus on what matters most. With live demonstrations of practical AI tools and an interactive discussion of how those tools can support and not control, we will recommit to our identity as mediators.

1.5 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

As AI tools reshape how parties prepare for and engage in dispute resolution, mediators face new ethical and practical challenges: AI-generated positions, algorithmically optimized negotiation strategies, and clients who arrive with chatbot-advised anchors. This session explores what mediators must do differently in an AI-influenced practice. Attendees will leave with a framework for empathic engagement that AI cannot replicate, grounded in both ethical obligation and practical skill.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.50 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Culture, Psychology, and Power at the Mediation Table: Navigating Power Dynamics in Cross-Cultural Mediation

SESSION 2
Friday, February 26 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Cypress

Power in mediation is dynamic rather than static. Cultural expectations, psychological responses, communication patterns, status, resources, language, and institutional authority can shape how parties participate and negotiate. This session examines how mediators can recognize power dynamics, distinguish cultural differences from coercion, and ethically use process interventions to promote meaningful participation, informed decision-making, and party self-determination.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Everyone tells mediators to market their practice, but few show how. This session tells the story of "Can ODR Change the World?", a documentary on online dispute resolution that shows how the filming of a Texas mediator in a family law role play with the Dispute Resolution Center of Montgomery County evolved to premiering at the 2026 International ODR Forum at Harvard. Attendees will learn to turn everyday mediation work into stories that educate the public to promote their brand while not "selling," all while protecting confidentiality.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

This presentation explores how mediators appropriately maintain and project neutrality and professionalism. We will present the ideas of leading thinkers and engage participants in interactive discussion about their own practice. Educational objectives include (1) define what is meant by “mediator neutrality"; (2) identify ethical standards related to professionalism and neutrality; and (3) evaluate situations that may challenge a mediator’s ability to remain or appear neutral and professional

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 1.00 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

The objectives of the presentation on Elder and Adult Care Mediation are (1) to describe the differences and nuances of these cases from intake to the table; (2) to explore the ethical considerations for accepting these cases for mediation with attorneys and pro se parties; and (3) to learn the family benefits and mediator opportunities to practice the art and science of elder and adult care. There is often misunderstanding about what constitutes elder and adult mediation and why special training in identifying family dynamics and learning about supportive resources will be essential. Ethical standards are woven throughout the presentation and one-third of this presentation is specifically dedicated to the recognized ethical standards created years ago by an elder mediation international committee that included the presenter's participation.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

This session equips mediators to use AI tools competently and ethically without compromising neutrality or confidentiality. Attendees will (1) identify where AI helps and harms in the mediation lifecycle; (2) apply a practical screening test before entering any client data into an AI tool; and (3) evaluate emerging duties of competence and disclosure under mediator ethics standards. They will focus on what being the “human in the loop” really means and become aware of AI trends and best practice tips from mediators engaged in the use of AI and ADR.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.50 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

This dynamic session spotlights some of the most impactful recent court decisions shaping mediation practice, from enforceability of settlement agreements to matters touching on ethical practices. We’ll also revisit a few landmark cases as Texas celebrates 40 years of its mediation statute, drawing practical insights you can use immediately. Engaging, fast-paced, and practice-focused, this is your essential Texas legal update for mediation.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.50 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Texas is home to 18 Dispute Resolution Centers that offer low‑cost mediation to people who might not otherwise afford it, each operating differently but united in their mission to support their communities. This panel highlights how DRCs use mediation to help resolve family, community, and small‑claims disputes, reduce court burdens, and expand access to conflict‑resolution services. Presenters will share how centers adapt to meet their communities’ unique needs.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.00 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Starting with some of AI’s reported foibles, we will delve into how AI works to enhance the practitioner’s skills in working with AI—as their tool or responding to its use by parties. Participants will learn to (1) recognize tasks suited for AI and those better left to traditional software or human judgement; (2) identify potential confidentiality, accuracy, and bias concerns; and (3) explain to parties how AI can be helpful or harmful to the dispute resolution process.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Reading the Room Right: Distinguishing Trauma, Neurodivergence, and Coercive Control in DV-Informed Mediation

SESSION 10
Friday, February 26 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm
Willow

A party who won't make eye contact, gives inconsistent timelines, or goes flat under pressure--is that trauma, neurodivergence, or response to coercive control? This session gives mediators a framework for telling these apart in real time, then shows how to restructure the process once you know: private screening, shuttle mediation, ground rules, third-party support, and trauma-informed communication—including where a child's needs enter the picture and change the read.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Decades of procedural justice research show that disputants judge legal processes as much by fairness as by outcomes—but does that hold in ADR? This session introduces procedural justice theory and presents new experimental findings on how laypeople evaluate mediation and arbitration. Goals: (1) explain the four pillars of procedural fairness (voice, neutrality, respect, and trustworthy motives), (2) apply them to mediation practice, and (3) evaluate ethical duties around self-determination in mandatory ADR.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

In this compassionate, informative ethics-focused session, mediators will learn the importance of understanding the lived experience of LGBTQ+ parties and how this can impact a party’s ability to compromise. When the letter of the law cannot address these nuances, a better-informed mediator can make a world of difference. Also, learn what is happening in Texas Courts involving LGBTQ+ parties and well as what is happening nationally. This will be a safe space for your questions.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 1.00 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Most mediators are brought into conflict after relationships have already fractured. But what if mediation moved upstream? This presentation introduces the concept of anticipatory mediation: structured facilitated conversations designed to prevent foreseeable disputes before illness, incapacity, death, caregiving transitions, or wealth transfers occur. Attendees will explore how mediators can play a proactive role in reducing family conflict through pre-dispute alignment and expectation management.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.50 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Mediation ethics matter. So in Foxworthy-style, we’ll test you out. Compete live against your peers for all the bragging rights. Are you ethically smarter in mediation than a 5th grader?

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 1.00 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

The number of pro se parties continues to rise, providing more opportunities and, yes, some challenges for mediators. Easy access to AI is creating some of these challenges. Staying in the role of mediator can also be problematic for some. For pro se parties, mediation is cost-effective and empowers amicable resolution. Come with your questions for three highly experienced mediators who will share their process in taking on pro se cases as well most recent lessons learned.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

This presentation explores how truancy mediation helps schools, families, and students move beyond attendance concerns to identify the real barriers behind repeated absences. Through a structured, confidential, and collaborative process, mediation gives each participant a voice and creates space for honest conversation, problem solving, and accountability. Participants will learn how mediation can support school engagement, share responsibilities, and have meaningful student success.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.25 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

Mediators have professional and ethical responsibilities to assist the parties in achieving a sustainable and enforceable settlement agreement. The settlement of every dispute involves the compromise of legal rights. Learn from guidance provided by Texas Courts as to how mediators can identify and deal with the legal and ethical challenges they may encounter, as well as the consequences of issues that can compromise or defeat the enforceability of a mediated settlement agreement.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 0.75 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.

In this interactive closing session, attendees will weigh in on real-world ethical dilemmas mediators face, then compare their answers with those of our panel of seasoned experts. Participants will be invited to submit their own ethical dilemmas in advance of the conference for discussion during the session. Moderated by the highly esteemed mediator and former TAM President Mark W. Sims, this lively program promises spirited debate, surprising results, and practical insights you can use at your next mediation.

1.0 continuing education credit hour(s), of which 1.00 hour(s) will apply to ethics credit.