Bellevue to offer training for would-be mediators

 

People interested in developing mediation and conflict resolution skills can receive training from the Bellevue Neighborhood Mediation Program. The 40-hour training, for those who live, work or go to school in Bellevue, will feature six sessions, mostly in early February.

Neighborhood Mediation offers a variety of conflict resolution services to the Bellevue community. In addition to giving participants mediation skills, this training is a prerequisite for those who may be interested in volunteering with the program.

The curriculum for the $250 class includes conflict theory, communication skills, conflict styles and mediation tools. Students will learn about different approaches to mediation (transformative, facilitative and evaluative), the stages of mediation, techniques for deepening rapport and managing emotions, use of questions and identifying interests, mediator ethics, writing agreements and closing the mediation session. This is a highly interactive course which includes substantial role playing.

All classes take place at City Hall, 450 110th Ave. NE. Dates and times are: 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 30; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1, and Saturday, Feb. 2; 5-9 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 6; and 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday, Feb. 8, and Saturday, Feb. 9. Attendance at all sessions is required.

For more information or to register for the training, call 425-452-4091 or email mediation_info@bellevuewa.gov.

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