Amy Robertson Mediation Services

Many relationships rely on trust. So, what can you do if trust has been lost or broken? As a mediator, I have learned that there are three qualifiers for people to work on trust:

1. Both or all parties want change (and are willing to try)
2. There are incentives to change or mutual benefits to change
3. An awareness that any repair will be incremental overtime

Once you confirm these criteria have been met, you could each say one simple thing you can do today to start rebuilding trust in each other again. Then follow through and build from there.

If you are looking for support during a separation or if you are facing challenges with your co-parent then check out my website for more information on how my mediation process can help here
➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/

One key to great outcomes in mediation is trust.

A skilled mediator can influence trust in the following ways:

1. They can design a process to build trust by considering the structure, safety, confidentiality, power imbalances and boundaries.

2. You can rely on them for their knowledge and expertise, so you know you are making informed decisions.

3. They are prepared to help co- parents increase their trust in each other, even if in a small way. This leads to better outcomes for your kids.

4. They encourage you to negotiate all your issues in their process so that the entire global agreement is something you can live with (vs. mediating a single issue which can remove options and may disadvantage you).

5. Their reputation – reflected in their website, social media presence, testimonials, thought leadership and referrals.

If you’re looking for a mediator you can trust in your separation, head to my website to learn more here ➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/

Mediator fit is important!

Here are three things to look for in your mediator:

1. Expertise (knowledge of the subject matter)
2. Experience and skill (how many mediations have they done)
3. Personality (do you think your mediator can get on the same wavelength as you and your former spouse)

Learn more about me and my mediation process here➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/

Every choice you make during a separation can ripple far into the future, affecting your finances, your children, and your own peace of mind.

Before you select a process that gives away your choice to an arbitrator or judge, I suggest you think about other options first.

An experienced mediator helps you make informed decisions, co-create agreements, and avoid unintended consequences.

Having no control over decisions that will significantly impact your life is stressful. I encourage you to work with a mediator that can help guide your family through this transition in a collaborative and cost effective way.

Learn more about mediation here
➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/

Many separating couples want a respectful, efficient way to resolve parenting and financial decisions without lawyers in the mediation room. In my Victoria, BC practice, I work extensively with self-represented spouses, offering a structured, client-centred mediation process that supports informed decision-making, manages power imbalances, and keeps the process proportionate to the issues at hand.

Self-represented mediation is not a lesser process, it simply requires a different design. My role is to provide the right level of guidance, pacing, and education, while ensuring clients understand their options and retain the ability to involve legal counsel at any stage if needed.

Self-Represented Family Mediation | Victoria BC Family mediation in Victoria, BC for self-represented spouses seeking an informed, affordable separation process, with lawyers as an option not a requirement.

Did you know that 70% of conflict is never resolved?

This is why it is better to focus on conflict management rather than conflict resolution.

As a mediator, here are my 5 tips to help you manage conflict:

1. Determine 3 things you each want the other person to hear
2. Keep an open mind and be curious
3. Talk about the impact the conflict or circumstance has had on you
4. Acknowledge that there is more than one solution
5. Shift your focus to the future

These tips can help people share information, understand different perspectives and hopefully get back on track at home, work or between friends.

If you are looking for support during a separation then check out my website for more information on how my mediation process can help here https://victoriamediation.com/

As a Mediator, I have observed the power of a good apology. When done sincerely it can resolve disputes, repair relationships or get things back on track.

Here are the ingredients of an effective Apology:

1. Expression of regret
2. Explanation of what went wrong
3. Acknowledgment of responsibility
4. Declaration of regret
5. Offer of repair

No. 3 & 5 are most important. Also, in under the Apology Act, an apology is not an admission of liability (this is important to note if you are giving or receiving an apology at work or in a settlement process.

https://victoriamediation.com/

How do you know if a family mediator is the right fit for you?

It’s important to consider whether you believe your mediator can connect with both you and your former spouse, manage conflict respectfully, and communicate in a way that resonates with everyone at the table. A mediator who can get on the same wavelength as both parties can make a significant difference in how productive the process is.

Interested in learning more? In my latest blog, I explore why trust and mediator fit matter.

Family Mediation in Victoria, BC: Trust & Mediator Fit Learn why mediator fit and trust matter in a separation agreement. Going through divorce, separation, or co-parenting in Victoria, BC? Amy Robertson can help.

Trust is essential in mediation. Over time, some clients and referring professionals have shared feedback about their experience working with me. I’ve collected some of those reflections on my website for anyone who’s curious about what mediation with me can feel like.

I’m often reminded that people usually come to mediation during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Being trusted during those times is something I never take lightly.

If you’d like to read more, you can find the client reviews here:
https://victoriamediation.com/mediation-client-reviews/

January is a time for new beginnings — and if you’re navigating separation or divorce, a little guidance can make a big difference.

One resource I recommend is the “Parenting After Separation Handbook.” This comprehensive guide helps parents organize schedules, communicate effectively, and focus on the well-being of their children.

Even small steps toward clarity and structure can reduce stress and build trust for everyone involved.

📥 You can download it for free, no contact info required: https://victoriamediation.com/resources/