Mediation. A process by which a third-party neutral facilitates parties in resolving a dispute. The role of the mediator is to facilitate communications between the parties, assist them in focusing on the real issues of the dispute, and generate options for settlement. The goal of mediation is that the parties themselves arrive arrive at a mutually acceptable resolution of the dispute. (Kimberly Kovach, Mediation: Principles and Practice 17 [1994])

Co-mediation. Mediation is frequently conducted by interdisciplinary teams, often consisting of therapists along with lawyers. Co-mediation can be effective as a result of the diversity of mediation teams (such as gender, expertise, style). The teams can work together at all times or meet with couples (or individual spouses in caucus) separately. Forest S. Mosten, The Complete Guide to Mediation 420 (ABA 1997)

Co-mediation with attorney and therapist. The focus of the therapist is to improve communication, identify the underlying issues, and deal with emotional conflict that interferes with the negotiations. The therapist can also function as a resource person by providing information about the children's needs, the emotional dynamics of divorce, and the restructuring of the marital relationship into an effective parenting unit.