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St. Cloud State University

St. Cloud State University

Center for Continuing Studies - Innovative Leadership for Lifelong Learning

Center for Continuing Studies - Innovative Leadership for Lifelong Learning - St. Cloud State University

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?
Alternative Dispute Resolution, also known as ADR, is used to describe a variety of dispute resolution activities such as mediation, facilitation, restorative justice, peace circles, coaching, etc.  These dispute resolution activities are alternatives to the litigation approach and going through the court system.  These activities are also alternatives to more competitive, adversarial approaches to conflict.

What is mediation?  Is it similar to psychotherapy? 
Mediation is a process where people who are involved in a dispute come together with a third party neutral called a mediator.  Mediation is not psychotherapy.  The mediator is trained to be a neutral party who is skilled at focusing on all parties' interests and aid the parties in coming to a mutually agreeable resolution.

Does the mediator decide on a resolution for the people who are in dispute?  What if I don't agree with the mediator? 
There are many models of mediation from highly facilitative to evaluative.  At the SCSU Institute for ADR, we use a highly facilitative model where the parties in a dispute always are the decision makers in terms of the resolution.  The mediator controls the process of the mediation such as development of ground rules, speaking order, etc.

How much does mediation or other ADR services cost?
The Institute has grants from the Initiative Foundation, State of Minnesota and the Bremer Foundation for individuals and organizations who are income-eligible. Otherwise, the cost is based on a sliding fee scale.

Can anyone be a mediator?
In Minnesota, MN Rule 114 describes the curriculum for the basic mediation skills course.  Participants who complete such a course can apply to be on the Minnesota Supreme Court Roster for Rule 114 neutrals.  At the SCSU Institute for ADR, all of our mediators are listed as qualified neutrals under Rule 114.  Various center provide this training.  The Institute for ADR will offer a 30-Hour Basic Mediation Skills Training.