The Family Mediation Services Certificate Course is a 20-hour, live, instructor-led training designed for individuals seeking to begin a career in family mediation. This interactive program prepares participants to assist separating or divorcing couples in reaching constructive agreements on issues such as child custody, visitation, division of property, spousal support, parenting responsibilities, and child education and support.

Through this course, students will explore the fundamental principles of the mediation process, including its voluntary, confidential, and non-adversarial nature. The training emphasizes party self-determination, guiding participants to empower families to develop their own solutions rather than imposing outcomes. The course also addresses key psychological and emotional factors associated with separation and divorce, including their impact on both adults and children.

In addition to core mediation skills, participants will examine how to navigate cases involving sensitive or high-risk dynamics such as domestic violence, spousal abuse, or child abuse. Students will learn how to identify when mediation is or is not appropriate, maintain neutrality, and prioritize safety and ethics throughout the process.

Note: While this course is not affiliated with any specific State Court Family Mediation Program, it closely follows the training guidelines recommended by the Florida Supreme Court for family mediation training.