STAFF REPORTS
The Hays County Dispute Resolution Center (DRC) will host its first mediator training classes beginning March 24.
“Mediators are responsible for facilitating discussions with people who are in conflict by listening to the parties, encouraging communication, identifying interests, advancing the negotiation and promoting the development of effective solutions,” said Anna Bartkowski, executive director of the DRC. “It is challenging work, but extremely fulfilling, and we’ve had a lot of people inquire about becoming mediators or in updating their accreditation as more organizations and the courts are finding mediation to be an effective method of conflict resolution.”
The Hays County DRC Basic Mediation Training Course is designed to provide training and basic skills needed to serve as a neutral, third-party mediator. The trainees will also be able to observe an actual mediation.
The $500, 40-hour class is open to anyone with an interest in becoming a mediator or learning mediation skills. The program meets the standards of the Texas Alternative Dispute Resolution Procedures Act, the Texas Mediator Trainers’ Roundtable, the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association and the Association of Attorney Mediators. MCLE credits will be available to attorneys taking the class.
The classes will be held at the DRC offices, 829 N. LBJ, Suite 108, San Marcos. For more information, call the DRC at 512-878-0382 or email [email protected].
