Become a Mediator
Curious about becoming a mediator at KCDRC?
Step 1:
CoRE™ Conflict Resolution for Everyone
Take CoRE™ Conflict Resolution for Everyone, our 40-hour basic training course.
CoRE™ is the first step toward becoming a mediator. It is designed to provide essential conflict resolution skills with cultural factors discussed throughout. The initial conflict management sessions are modularized for flexibility and customization. This foundational training includes a combination of theory, demonstrations, discussion, and experiential practice in a facilitative mediation model. CoRE™ covers the learning objectives for a Basic Mediation Training (BMT). When you take CoRE™, you have completed the first step towards becoming a mediator.
If you already have a BMT Certificate from elsewhere, we have a 1-day orientation to help familiarize you with the unique aspects of CoRE™.
Step 2:
Follow an Advanced Learning Pathway
The next step to growing your conflict management skills, becoming a mediator, or volunteering with KCDRC, is to follow one of our Advanced Learning Pathways. Through various topical trainings, you will develop a learning pathway that combines theory and opportunities to practice your knowledge and skills in specialized mediation areas. Program-specific trainings for Small Claims Court, Family, Housing, Community etc. are currently under development.
Step 3:
Receive Approval to Mediate in a KCDRC program
After applying to a KCDRC program, you will engage in observations and mediations with Learning Guides, and utilize your reflective practice skills in debriefs. Upon successful demonstration of your skills and competencies, you would gain approval to mediate with the specific KCDRC program. Mediations at KCDRC can address a range of conflicts between neighbors, friends, landlords, tenants, coworkers, etc.
Step 4:
Enrich your Experience
Participate in Continuing Education! Our volunteer mediators are asked to complete a certain number of mediations each year, to fulfill continuing education hours, and to engage in reflective practice through observations, debriefs, and self-assessment.