Idaho Mediation Association, Inc. Blog

Vast Majority Join IMA for Certification or Education Survey Finds

Leigh Barer — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 20:14:20 GMT

As IMA President Nancy Haug stated in the August newsletter, “Being a student of mediation means commitment to growth through ongoing training, skill development, practical experience and networking.”

With that in mind, you may find the IMA’s most recent member survey results of interest. In July, we posed the following questions to IMA members:

1) Please select the number one reason you joined the Idaho Mediation Association.

The vast majority, 77.5 percent of IMA members who participated in the survey, joined IMA for Certification or education. This is no surprise considering it is the initial reason I joined this organization in 2020. You can read more information about IMA certification and education on the IMA website.

2) What are your number two and three reasons?

Most survey participants (65 percent) chose Community as the number two reason for joining the IMA and Seal of approval or perceived influence (42.5 percent).

The IMA Community is invaluable to me and to so many other mediators and legal professionals. Community feedback is also invaluable, which is why the IMA Board of Directors continues to seek and incorporate community input into our planning. In late 2024, the IMA board and staff, along with the support of WRG Corporate Services, an independent third-party consultant, developed and adopted the three-to-five-year IMA Strategic Plan.

As students of mediation, the IMA board committees have been tasked with prioritizing and implementing the organization's strategic goals and objectives. To provide the IMA community with the IMA experience that best meets your needs, we will continue to seek and implement your feedback. Thank you to all who take the time to participate in helping us strengthen the IMA experience. See you online September 25 and 26 at the IMA 2025 Annual Conference!

Everyone Has A Conflict (How to make it disappear)

Leigh Barer — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 17:20:01 GMT

By David Pelligrinelli

I'll bet that you can think of a conflict or dispute in your life that you wish you could make go away. And you are not alone, it is likely that everyone you know, from family, friends, colleagues, and co-workers, each has some type of friction with another person that is ongoing. It could be a minor squabble over an expense all the way up to a major row regarding a large life issue.

Any type of dispute, left unresolved, can and will create further problems for all the parties. It will occupy attention in your mind, displacing other productive thoughts and ideas. The problem will escalate between the parties, collecting other unrelated issues, dragging them into the conflict. It will also ensnare those around you, forcing them to be counselors to hear your frustrations, or to take a side.

Thankfully, there are steps that any person can take to dissolve a festering disagreement and free the distraction. Even as professional mediators, we each have pending squabbles that we all wish to improve.

The first and most important step is to create emotional distance from the personal insult you feel about the conflict. Even if there is legitimate disrespect from the other party, dwelling in that hurt will interfere with any resolution. Put that aside, the best that you can, before doing anything else. In a formal high level conflict resolution, such as a mediated litigation, that is the primary role of the mediator or arbitrator, to be an emotional buffer between the disputants, a neutral third party without a "dog in the hunt." So if you are working on a personal conflict, be your own mediator first, and go into "don't take it personal" mode. This is much easier for me to say, than for you to actually do.

Second, look at all the facets of the conflict, and identify which ones are already in agreement, or functionally close. Then isolate the remaining items which have a larger delta.

Third, begin a dialog with the other party, and ask them to describe their point of view on the matter. Let them talk, filibuster, and run off from the mouth for longer than you are comfortable with. Certainly, do not accept verbal abuse or insults, but the more that you can diplomatically let the other side be heard, you will find that many of the disputed points will magically melt on their own.

Last, address the remaining items with "what if" suggestions. "I am not sure if I could make this work, but what if I was willing to (state your offering), would that be a good place to make this work for us?" Throughout the process, introduce intermittent examples of very firm direction, and even glimpses of dominance, to let the other party that you are being responsible for leading the conversation.

If you combine the patience of a saint, the insight of a teacher, and step out of your own defensiveness, you will be able to perform the magic trick of conflict resolution.

If you are a professional mediator reading this, share these ideas along with your own elevated knowledge of conflicts to those in your personal circle. Everyone has a need to extract themself with honor from a dispute. If you are a person who is interested in the field of conflict resolution and mediation, follow our association and consider joining for regular skill building and networking information.

If you are a general human being, use these tips to try and de-escalate the disputes in your life, or consider involving a professional mediator to take the pressure off of yourself.

IMA Member Spotlight: Julie Black-Henry, CPM

Leigh Barer — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 20:18:06 GMT

Welcome to IMA Member Spotlight, where we take a closer look at individual IMA members and why they became mediators.

Meet IMA board member Julie Black-Henry, a certified professional mediator (CPM), senior paralegal and owner of Idaho Mediation, LLC. Her 20 years of experience as a paralegal and work as a court-approved instructor inform her mediation practice.

Here are a few questions IMA posed to Julie and her responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: I became a CPM in October 2022 because I have always enjoyed helping clients come to a resolution as a paralegal in their cases. I decided since I assisted clients for years in doing so, that I would make it official and become a CPM.

Q: When and why did you join the IMA?

A: I joined IMA four years ago to become a "Certified Professional Mediator" and be added to the Idaho Supreme Court List of Child Custody Mediators.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: Primarily Family law cases; however, I have experience in all civil cases, including evictions, workplace mediation, and church conflicts.

Q: Are you a CPM in any other states?

A: I am a CPM in Idaho only, and have provided mediations in Oregon, Washington and California.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: I love spending time with my children and grandchildren, going to sporting events and concerts. I spend as much time as I can outdoors and enjoy what Idaho has to offer.

Q: What is one tip or piece of advice you would like to share with other mediators?

A: Being a mediator is like learning a new job every day. Each mediation session is different, and each person's situation is a little different. Understanding that every scenario does not fit in one box will make you a successful mediator.

Q: Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

A: I have been a paralegal for almost 20 years and teach a course called Bridging Two Homes for all counties in the State of Idaho that is ordered by the courts. I am co-owner of Idaho Mediation and Resolution Center, Inc, a local Non-Profit 501c3 Organization assisting the community with mediation services, restorative justice practices, and training needs.

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: I am a ride-or-die DODGERS FAN.

Thank you, Julie, for participating in our IMA Member Spotlight!

For more about Julie, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-black-henry-9563ba130/
To learn more about becoming a certified professional mediator, click here.

CDLP Idaho-Certified Divorce Lending Professional

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 14:25:29 GMT

As a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP®), I understand that divorce presents difficult decisions—especially when it comes to the family home. My approach is to keep things simple yet strategic with the K.I.S.S. principle—Knowledge, Insight, Strategies, and Solutions. I’ll help you navigate the complexities of divorce mortgage planning, ensuring that the choices you make today support both your immediate needs and long-term financial well-being. Whether you’re looking to keep, sell, or refinance your property, I’m here to provide clear guidance and a solid plan for the future.

Let’s work together to take the stress out of your real estate decisions: https://divorcebriefings.com/KISS

#DivorceMortgagePlanning #RealEstateInDivorce #CDLP #FinancialFuture #DivorceSupport

IMA Member Spotlight

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 21:39:07 GMT

Meet mediator Leigh Barer, current Secretary on the IMA Board of directors and Chair of the Communications and Fundraising Committee. Leigh is a Certified Professional Mediator who passionate about helping people resolve conflict. She focuses on family law mediations and is listed on the Idaho Supreme Court roster of child custody mediators. Leigh has a deep communications background and extensive experience solving complex communication challenges. Here are a few questions IMA posed to Leigh with her responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: I earned my professional mediator certification in 2021 because I enjoy helping people resolve conflict.

Q: When and why did you join the IMA?

A: I have been a member of IMA for 4 years (I think). I joined IMA to be at the forefront of mediation in Idaho, become a certified professional mediator, and connect with the mediation community.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: I focus on family law, such as divorce, parenting time, elder care as well as landlord-tenant, small claims, and restorative justice.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: I enjoy long walks, hiking, travel, and time with family and friends.

Q: What is one tip or piece of advice you would like to share with other mediators?

A: Don’t be afraid to reach out to other mediators for feedback, and be a mediator who is willing to share your insights. I am fortunate to have had mediators share their expertise with me.

Q: Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

A: I was a communications executive for many years prior to working in mediation.

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: Chocolate is my therapy!

Thank you, Leigh, for participating in our IMA Member Spotlight!

2024 IMA Officer and Director Election

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:37:17 GMT

The annual election of officers and directors of the Idaho Mediation Association will be held via online vote from October 6-12, 2024. The following positions will be elected to serve for two-year terms:

President

Secretary

3 Directors

President and Secretary candidates must be CPM members who have either served on a committee for two years or previously served on the board of directors. Director candidates must be CPM or general members in good standing.

If you are interested in nominating yourself or someone else, please complete the attached form and submit it to admin@idahomediationassociation.org by September 15, 2024.

IMA Officer and Director Nomination Form

Please contact the IMA Administrator at (208) 855-0506 or any board member if you have any questions. Thank you!

IMA Member Spotlight: David Pelligrinelli

Leigh Barer — Thu, 16 May 2024 01:59:58 GMT

Welcome to IMA Member Spotlight, where we take a closer look at individual IMA Members and what inspired their career in mediation.

Meet mediator David Pelligrinelli, an IMA board member and owner of Eagle, Idaho-based Telemediator.com. An individual of many talents, David is a licensed private investigator, a certified real estate title examiner, a licensed commercial insurance producer, a licensed building general contractor, and a certified commercial surety bond producer. He brings his diverse background and creative thinking to his work on the IMA Board.

Here are a few questions IMA posed to David with her responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: In 2022, I became a mediator to facilitate the resolution of conflicts in business contracts.

Q: When and why did you join the IMA?

A: Topromote a more widely adopted understanding of mediation among the general public.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: Corporate conflicts and financial disputes.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: I enjoy off-road driving.

Q: What is one tip or piece of advice you would like to share with other mediators?

A: Look for the existing common ground and build upon that commonality.

Q: Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

A: Almost everyone has something they could use a mediator for, almost always.

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: I've climbed to 10,000 feet above sea level and enjoy diving to 300 feet below sea level.

Thank you, David, for participating in our IMA Member Spotlight!

For more about Telemediator.com, visit https://telemediator.com/.
To learn more about becoming a certified professional mediator, click here.

IMA Member Spotlight: Melissa Bishop, CPM, DSP

Leigh Barer — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:39:48 GMT

Welcome to IMA Member Spotlight, where we take a closer look at individual IMA members and why they became mediators.

Meet IMA board member Melissa Bishop, a certified professional mediator (CPM) and a certified direct service provider (DSP) through the Idaho Domestic Violence Council. In addition to mediating, she facilitates domestic violence programming for individuals convicted of domestic violence or domestic violence-related crimes at Trivium Life Services. Melissa brings her extensive criminal justice background (12 plus years) and experience as a responder to her conflict resolution work.

Here are a few questions IMA posed to Melissa and her responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: I became a mediator in 2022 because I want to help individuals learn how to communicate in healthier ways and resolve issues. I also wanted to challenge myself professionally in another area of practice.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: My practice areas include child custody, small claims, evictions, and neighborhood disputes.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: I enjoy anything with my family. We love to camp, hike, boat, and fish.

Q: What is one tip or piece of advice you would like to share with other mediators?

A: Show up authentically and encourage those you work with to stay future-focused.

Q: Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

A: I love spending my time with my family and friends above all else, and enjoying the beautiful state we live in!

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: One fun fact about me is that I have been pepper sprayed and tased for training purposes.

Thank you, Melissa for participating in our IMA Member Spotlight!

For more about Melissa, visit: linkedin.com/in/melissa-bishop-1b5b2a218
To learn more about becoming a certified professional mediator, click here.

IMA Member Spotlight: Terry W. Petty, CPM

Leigh Barer — Sat, 12 Aug 2023 13:25:59 GMT

Welcome back to IMA Member Spotlight, where we take a closer look at individual IMA members and why they became a mediator.

We are taking a closer look at Idaho Mediation Association President Terry W. Petty, CPM and owner of Moscow, Idaho-based Peace-Full Solutions RE, Inc., which provides mediation services and trains leaders in conflict management concepts and strategies. Terry has a Master of Arts in Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, and Peacebuilding from California State University, Dominguez Hills. His professional experience as an ordained minister, real estate broker, and former president of the Grand Teton Mediation Association brings strength to his leadership of the IMA Board.

Here are a few questions IMA posed to Terry with his responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: I became a mediator in 2009 to develop and enhance my skills in peacebuilding and peace-making.

Q: When and why did you join the IMA?

A: In 2010, I joined the IMA to gain credibility by becoming a CPM, and to access continuing education opportunities.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: I specialize in religious organizations, real estate, estate, non-profit, workplace, divorce, and parenting plans.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: I enjoy umpiring high school baseball/softball for 23 seasons (and counting), riding my Harley-Davidson Ultra Electra-Glide, and sports like golf, hunting, and fishing.

Q: What is one tip or piece of advice you would like to share with other mediators?

A: I love conflict! Because I find great satisfaction when a conflict discovers a solution and tears of fear and anger transition to tears of relief and joy.

Q: Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

A: Together with the IMA board, I look forward to bringing increased value and visibility to professional mediators through increased credibility, continuing education, and influence to our communities.

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: Our home has a name, The Dove: A place of peace.

Thank you, Terry, for participating in our IMA Member Spotlight!

For more about Terry, visit http://www.peace-full.com/About-Us.html

To learn more about becoming a certified professional mediator, click here.

Workplace Mediation Training from Mediate.com

Jeanne Jackson-Heim, MBA — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 21:13:49 GMT

Mediate.com is excited to announce a brand new, 3-day, online Workplace Mediation Training taught by leading mediators in the field: "Connecting Employees, Departments, and Corporations: One Conversation at a Time."

Open to all mediators, the training is September 13-15, 8am-4pm PST, conducted online via Zoom.

TRAINERS: Hosted by Dr. Clare Fowler, who has worked with Google, Sirius, OSHA, DOI, and organizations in a variety of fields. Keynote by Erin Earle. Also participating will be mediators, conflict consultants, coaches, ombuds, and speakers from HR and management.

AGENDA: The first 2 days of the training will focus on diagnosing and understanding workplace conflict, developing a plan for resolution, implementing your plan, and strategies for complex disputes. You will have breakout sessions with hiring managers from a variety of companies who will present a hypothetical workplace conflict which you diagnose and develop a plan for engaging with it. The hiring managers will then give you feedback. The 3rd day of the training will focus on developing your practice, marketing your process, and resources that will support you.

PRICING: $495 early registration until Sep 1, $695 after Sep 1

Click here for registration and more information:

https://mediate.com/workplace-training-2023/

Materials will be available one week before the training, and recordings will be available the day after each session.

Please let us know if you have any questions, and we hope to see you in September!

Clare Fowler, PhD
for Mediate.com

IMA Member Spotlight: Courtney Lossmann, LMSW, CPM

Leigh Barer — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 05:14:05 GMT

Welcome to IMA Member Spotlight, where we take a closer look at individual IMA members and why they became a mediator.

Meet Courtney Lossmann, LMSW, CPM, and owner of Boise-based Rolling Hills Counseling & Mediation Services, PLLC. She brings her experience as a psychotherapist, court-appointed special advocate/guardian ad litem, and crisis responder to her conflict resolution work. The IMA is fortunate to have Courtney serve on the IMA Board.

Here are a few questions IMA posed to Courtney with her responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: Over the past several years, I've provided psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families throughout the Treasure Valley. A common challenge or struggle often presented is navigating conflict. Through my work helping individuals learn new skills to address and manage conflict, I've found overall mental health improves. I decided to dive into the world of mediation to learn more about conflict resolution and assist others in developing skills to navigate conflict constructively.

Q: When and why did you join the IMA?

A: I joined the IMA in 2022 to explore continuing education opportunities and to network with my professional mediation community.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: My practice is focused on divorce and child custody, estate, small claims, workplace, community, and eviction mediation.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: I enjoy traveling, spending time with family and friends, learning new hobbies, and attending trainings (I'd love to be a professional student :-).

Q: What is one tip or piece of advice you would like to share with other mediators?

A: Yikes! This is still a new area for me, so I don't know if I have much advice to offer at this time. However, I love to hear advice and personal experiences related to the field from other mediators!

Q: Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

A: I have six children ages 14 - 22, have experienced divorce, re-marriage, and blending a family. Although each situation is unique, I have an understanding of the challenges that often lead to conflict during these life transitions.

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: I recently attained my “Skipper” certification to charter sailboats!

Thank you, Courtney for participating in our IMA Member Spotlight!

For more about Courtney, visit https://www.rollinghillscounseling.com/about
To learn more about becoming a certified professional mediator, click here.

IMA Member Spotlight: Nancy Haug, CPM

Leigh Barer — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 01:49:31 GMT

Welcome to the IMA Member Spotlight, where we take a closer look at individual IMA members and why they became a mediator.

Meet Nancy Haug, CPM and owner of Haug Mediation and Facilitation Services. Based in Boise and certified in Idaho, she is a trained, experienced, proficient and compassionate mediator and facilitator. Nancy is a valued member of the IMA Board.

Here are a few questions IMA posed to Nancy with her responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: I became a mediator in 2014. Toward the end of my federal career with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), I took a mediation class at the University of Nevada Reno, thinking that the mediation process would support my work as a natural resource professional. I fell in love with the practice and theory of conflict resolution and began volunteering in 2014 at the Reno Justice Court and for the Neighborhood Mediation Center.

When I retired from the BLM in 2016, I pursued and completed a Master of Arts in Dispute Resolution to expand and deepen my knowledge, skills and experience in conflict resolution. Mediation was a natural progression following my career based in natural resources, where I spent decades working with individuals and groups from different agencies and organizations to explore and share concerns and negotiate resolutions. Mediation allows me to use the skills and knowledge I have gained through education and experience. It allows me to stay connected to individuals and groups and support them as they work through complicated issues toward resolutions and peace.

Q: When and why did you join the IMA?

A: I joined the IMA in 2019 to connect with professionals in my field, learn about educational opportunities, and become certified.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: My conflict resolution work includes individuals, families, and companies navigating small claims, eviction, divorce, elder care, and employment. I also facilitate groups negotiating complex issues to outcomes that allow them to move forward with a purpose and a plan.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: My outdoor passions include hiking, backpacking, photography, and fishing with my husband and Mini-Aussie. At home, I write, cook, and manage my photos. I also spend as much time as possible with my children and grandchildren.

Q: What is one tip or piece of advice you would like to share with other mediators?

A: Adopt a student-of-mediation attitude -- we can never stop learning. This means actively pursuing opportunities for personal and professional growth through classes, books and self-reflective practices.

Q: Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

A: Although mediation is my second career, my first career laid the foundation for my success as a mediator. Conflict is everywhere, and it's normal and expected; I love exploring the differences people have and helping them find commonalities and mutually agreeable solutions.

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: I was born in Japan to military parents and have lived in Germany and England as well.

For more about Nancy, visit: https://www.nancyhaugmediation.com/
To learn more about becoming a certified professional mediator, click here.

Thank you, Nancy for participating in our IMA Member Spotlight!

IMA ushers in Terry W. Petty, CPM as president, Jennifer Poole, CPM as VP

Leigh Barer — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 21:56:07 GMT

and Leigh K. Barer, CPM, as secretary; Adds board members

BOISE, Idaho, Jan. 09, 2023–Idaho Mediation Association (IMA), which educates, certifies, and supports mediation professionals and promotes community awareness of constructive conflict resolution, today announced Terry W. Petty, CPM, as president, and several board officers and directors.

In addition to Terry serving as IMA president, Jennifer Poole, CPM, will serve as vice president, and Leigh K. Barer will serve as secretary. Leigh’s and Jennifer’s new officer roles left two vacant director seats to which the IMA board appointed Melissa Bishop, CPM, and Courtney Lossmann, LMSW. Nancy Haug, CPM, was elected a director, and Sheldon L. Forehand, CPM, was re-elected a director following his service the previous year. Scott Brand, CPM, continues as treasurer, and Steve Pinther, CPM, continues as director.

“I love conflict because I find great satisfaction when a conflict discovers a solution and ‘tears of fear and anger transition to tears of relief and joy,” said IMA President Terry W. Petty, CPM. “I am committed to advancing the IMA’s two-fold mission to train and certify professional mediators and to promote the benefits of mediation to the public. Together with the IMA board, I look forward to bringing increased value and visibility to professional mediators through increased credibility and community, and to building public awareness and understanding of mediation’s many benefits."

About Terry W. Petty, 2023 to 2024 IMA President

A CPM since 2010, Terry is listed on the Idaho Supreme Court Roster for Child Custody Mediators and is a former president of the Grand Teton Mediation Association (Idaho Falls, Idaho). Prior to his election to president, he was elected 2021-2022 IMA vice president and served on the 2014-2015 board.

Terry is the president of Peace-Full Solutions RE, Inc., which provides mediation services and training leaders in conflict management concepts and strategies. He specializes in church, organizational, large group, and high-intensity conflicts. Since 2017, he has been an Idaho licensed REALTOR® and works with Team Idaho Real Estate in Moscow, Idaho. An ordained minister, Terry serves the Northwest Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God as the North Idaho Executive Presbyter. He was certified as a Master Chaplain with the International Conference of Police Chaplains and served as a volunteer law enforcement chaplain for 25 years. He has authored three books. Terry earned a master’s degree in negotiation, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

About Jennifer Poole, CPM, 2022-2023 Vice President

Jennifer is the mediator at the Idaho Industrial Commission and owner of Resolution Empowered Mediation. An Idaho CPM, she has been an adjunct faculty member of Boise State University’s Dispute Resolution Program since 1999 and University of Dubuque LIFE since 2022. Jennifer authored Ch. 19: Conflict Management and the Criminal Justice System in the textbook “Victimology: Crime Victimization and Victim Services” from the Idaho Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence.

In addition to conducting various types of mediation, Jennifer trains and consults on Restorative Justice, victim-offender mediation, peer mediation, community mediation, and active listening. Prior to serving as the 2022 to 2023 vice president on the IMA board, she was a director from 2021 to 2022 and is a member of IMA's Training and Education Committee. Jennifer holds a master’s degree in dispute resolution from Touro University Worldwide. She earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and communication from Boise State University, and an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Brigham Young University - Idaho.

About Leigh K. Barer, CPM, 2023 to 2024 Secretary

Leigh is a CPM on the Idaho Supreme Court Roster for Child Custody Mediators with a family law focus and a deep communications background. Her interest in resolving conflict is underscored by her professional training and extensive experience solving complex communication challenges.

Before mediation, Leigh spent 15+ years helping countless businesses and nonprofits communicate clearly with their audiences as a freelance communications and PR consultant. Prior to serving as the 2023-2024 secretary on the IMA board, she was a director from 2022-2023. Leigh has completed studies in basic and advanced mediation, child custody mediation, domestic violence mediation, and restorative justice. Leigh earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication from Seattle University.

For more about the IMA Board of Directors, visit https://www.idahomediationassociation.org/Board-of-Directors.

About Idaho Mediation Association

The Idaho Mediation Association (IMA) is an association of mediators that educates, certifies, and supports mediation professionals and promotes community awareness of constructive conflict resolution. IMA has certified more than 400 individuals as Certified Professional Mediators (CPMs). IMA is one of the associations for which the Supreme Court accepts its certification process. IMA is Idaho’s mediation organization of choice for individuals seeking community, certification, and professional development. Visit: https://www.idahomediationassociation.org

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IMA Member Spotlight: Sheldon L. Forehand, CPM

Leigh Barer — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 04:08:46 GMT

Welcome to IMA Member Spotlight, where we take a closer look at individual IMA members and why they became a mediator.

Meet our current Spotlight, Sheldon L. Forehand, CPM, owner of Forehand Mediation. Possessing a high emotional intelligence, Sheldon is an IMA member and a treasured IMA Board member.

Here are a few questions IMA posed to Sheldon and his responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: I wanted to apply my experience as a mediation client with my extensive background helping at-risk youth and adults work through challenging obstacles with my interest in helping people resolve conflict.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: My mediation practice focuses on child custody and elder care. I mediate evictions and HOA conflicts as well.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: When not meditating, I enjoy spending time with my family and getting out on the golf course.

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: I once rappelled off a 200-foot cliff!

Thank you, Sheldon, for participating in our IMA Member Spotlight!

For more about Sheldon, visit https://sheldonforehand.com
To learn more about becoming a certified professional mediator, click here.

Elevating Small Claims Mediation in the 7th Judicial District

Leigh Barer — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 04:37:11 GMT

by Jennifer L. Neerman, CPM
Small Claims Mediation Coordinator, 7th Judicial District

The Idaho 7th Judicial District has remarkable people involved with the Small Claims Mediation Program. We have a Judge who has mastered the art of building confidence in the courtroom prior to mediation, spectacular court clerks who expeditiously prepare the mediators, and a group of mediators who have taken their volunteer position to an extraordinary level of excellence.

On the mornings of Small Claims Court, Judge Jason Walker gives an overview of how small claims court functions and why it is important for the litigants and the community to mediate, in good faith, to settle their cases before court. He introduces the mediators, gives a brief bio on each mediator, then sends everyone off to mediation. Judge Walker builds confidence in everyone by doing this. Mediation is very successful in the 7th Judicial District, with very few cases returning to court for noncompliance.

Court clerks in the 7th Judicial District are an integral part of the mediation process. They provide the mediators with the claim, answer, and supporting documents in advance so the mediators have everything they need to facilitate the mediation. Clerks Nicole McGary's and Heather Cronquist's desks are very busy, and they go above and beyond to support the Small Claims Mediation Program and do an excellent job.

Finally, let's look at our current eclectic team of volunteer mediators. Our mediators are outstanding! They come from all walks of life. We have attorneys, professors, public health officials, students, professional mediators, fishermen, probation officers, and artists. They show up to serve our communities and courts, and really make a difference. Here are highlights of who our mediators are:

David Pulsipher has been a professor of history at BYU- Idaho for over two decades. He earned a Ph.D. in American studies from the University of Minnesota and currently specializes in conflict and peace theory. He has also served as a visiting professor and Fulbright scholar in India. He lives in Rexburg, Idaho, and loves to spend time along rivers and mountains. David also serves as a rental dispute mediator for BYU-Idaho student housing.

Scott D. Brand is a conflict resolution specialist and certified professional mediator. Additionally, Scott is a listed mediator for the Idaho Supreme Court and the Nevada Supreme Court. He is a member of the Grand Teton Mediation Association and a board member for the Idaho Mediation Association. Scott loves helping people reach solutions personalized to meet their needs and live a life with less conflict and more peace. Helping people choose outcomes rather than having solutions decided for them by a judge or another third party is what motivates Scott to help those in dealing with conflict. Self-determination is a strong value to Scott and one which he wants to share with others to help them live a better life. A graduate of Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, Scott holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration. He specializes in mediating child custody, divorce, domestic dispute, eviction, and small claims issues. When he's not mediating conflict and helping clients choose their own solutions, Scott revels in outdoor adventures and is an avid mountain biker, backpacker, river runner, lifelong learner, and adventurer.

J. Michael (Mike) Wheiler graduated from Utah State University in 1981 with a degree in history and English. He taught for one year at Preston Junior High School before attending and graduating from the University of Idaho College of Law. Mike has been a trial attorney for over 30 years and has assisted clients with a wide variety of issues. In his capacity as an attorney, he has participated in hundreds of mediations. He recently attended the Northwest Institute for Dispute Resolution Civil Mediation course at the University of Idaho. Mike works at the law firm of Thomsen Holman Wheiler, PLLC, in Idaho Falls. Mike currently serves as vice president of the Grand Teton Mediation Association.

Melissa Bishop has a Bachelor of Science from Boise State in criminal justice correction. She is a former probation officer and is now a domestic violence direct supervisor. She is an excellent mediator, and we are grateful to have her serve our district all the way from Boise.

Kellye Johnson has 25+ years working in the Environmental Health Division at Eastern Idaho Public Health. She started as an environmental health specialist trainee, working during the summer months in Fremont County (mostly in beautiful Island Park) while earning her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Idaho in industrial technologies with an emphasis in solid waste management. For the last 20 years, she has worked as the environmental Health Administrator. The Mission of Environmental Health is to ensure the public is protected from environmental factors that threaten their surroundings and quality of life. She works hard every day to make the mission of Environmental Health a reality for her family and hopefully for generations to come.

Kelly Faley is a junior at BYU-Idaho and is studying political science with an emphasis In foreign attars and a minor in peace and conflict transformation. She is a trained mediator who is ready to practice and build her career in conflict resolution. She loves music and plays the trumpet in the University Band.

Judge Walker says, "The mediators are the backbone of our success. I love our mediators' commitment to creative problem-solving. They work extremely hard and resolve some really challenging cases. These are cases that would undoubtedly recirculate again and again in the court system but for their efforts. Please continue to express my gratitude to them for the service they provide to the community."

We lost a fair number of our first-generation mediators when COVID struck, and we were forced into video conferencing, but the silver lining was the ability to use utilize mediators from across the state. Now, as we slowly transition back to in-person mediation we are looking forward to positive changes.

We have abounding gratitude for Judge Walker, the court clerks and our volunteer mediators!

Mediator Self-Care in the Time of COVID

Leigh Barer — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 04:00:25 GMT

by Jennifer Poole, CPM and IMA Director 2021-2022

A 2020 Gallup poll noted around one quarter of working Americans experienced burnout most often or always. We do not need another survey to tell us that burnout has greatly increased during the pandemic. If you have been a mediator for any length of time, you know it can be a challenge to not let the negative energy in the room impact you. One quality that can make or break a mediator’s long-term success is making sure to regularly get self-care. We have a professional obligation to make time for self-care including physical, psychological, emotional, social, spiritual, and leisure well-being to ensure we can focus and meet the expectations of our roles.

As mediators, we knowingly put ourselves in the middle of other people’s stressful situations and conflicts. While juggling different tasks and assisting others with their own problems, we can easily tend to ignore ourselves. Self-care is taken for granted even though it is crucial to our productivity. We need to take care of ourselves so that we may show up to work as our best versions. Ask yourself: What do you do daily for self-care? Have you added additional self-care during the pandemic? What self-care do you do before a mediation session?

Lydia Nussbaum, Associate Professor of Law and Associate Director of the Saltman Center for Conflict Resolution, William S. Boyd School of Law at University of Nevada, Las Vegas, addresses how burnout increases because of the responsibility mediators carry for delivering a quality mediation process. This includes even “little details” like being aware of, and constantly regulating, the mediator’s own outward expressions to parties. A burned-out mediator might not be able to think strategically about which topics to pursue first in mediation or will continue to hammer for options on a dead-end topic instead of realizing the need to park the conversation and switch to another more fruitful topic. This can erode parties' confidence in the process and lead them to feel discouraged about the possibility of reaching resolution. A mediator whose cognitive abilities are com-promised by burn-out may not be able to do their best job of performing these imperative elements of the mediation process, and they could therefore do a disservice to the parties and undermine the parties’ chances of reaching resolution. A burned-out mediator is more likely to run the risk of delivering an ineffective and unfair process.

Sometimes the stressors of being a mediator are even related to how we are thinking in our work. Mediators are human beings. We each grew up in a certain cultural context that imbued us with ways of thinking and evaluating, and invariably we bring these with us when we mediate. It is important to check in with yourself before, during, and after mediation. Mediation is more likely to be successful with the mediator has centered and focused themselves prior to the session. Take a short walk, do a short meditation or even just take a few deep breaths before the parties arrive to help refocus yourself on the parties and their conflicts.

With a little practice, self-care can be done relatively quickly and can even be done during the session while you stay within the flow of the conversation. In just a few short breaths, you can turn inward, become aware of your thoughts, connect with your feelings and needs, and then turn back to focusing on the parties.

Self-care is important for everyone, and mediators need it more than most others so we can emulate a sense of being calm and focused to our parties. Take some time to schedule regular self-care for yourself – it will have a positive impact not only on your but on your mediations and the parties you help.

Nussbaum, Lydia, "Mediator Burnout" (2019). Scholarly Works. 1223.
https://scholars.law.unlv.edu/facpub/1223

IMA Member Spotlight: Scott D. Brand, CPM

Leigh Barer — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 05:04:36 GMT

Welcome to IMA Member Spotlight, where we take a closer look at individual IMA members and why they became a mediator.

Meet our first Spotlight, Scott D. Brand, CPM, and owner of Scott D. Brand Conflict Resolution. A multi-faceted professional based in Salmon, Idaho, Scott also mediates with the Supreme Court of Nevada and nationwide with AEP Meditation & Notary Services. He’s been an IMA member for two years and is a valued member of the IMA Board.

Here are a few questions IMA posed to Scott and his responses:

Q: When and why did you become a mediator?

A: Simply, I really enjoy helping people solve problems. I wanted to help empower others to solve their own conflicts and control their own destinies versus going to court, handing over all self-determination to a stranger, and losing the power to dictate the outcome in their lives. I believe in people making hard choices for themselves instead of sitting on the sidelines and allowing a third party to determine their fate. Watching stress and negativity fade away and being replaced with a sense of calm is rewarding.

Q: What types of mediation do you practice?

A: Child custody, divorce, property, small claims, estate, HOA.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?

A: When I’m not working, you will find me riding my mountain bike, floating on the river, spending time with friends and family, hiking with my dogs, or planning my next adventure.

Q: Please share with us one fun fact about yourself.

A: I have four dogs I rescued from the animal shelter.

Thank you, Scott for participating in our first IMA Member Spotlight!

For more about Scott, visit https://www.scottdbrand.com.
To learn more about becoming a certified professional mediator, click here.

IMA President Carol Barkes among IBR's 2022 Women of the Year

Leigh Barer — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 20:51:30 GMT

Congratulations to IMA President Carol Barkes, CPM, who is among 50 women recognized by Idaho Business Review as 2022 Women of the Year!

“2022 marks the 17th year the Idaho Business Review has been recognizing incredible women from across the state of Idaho. This year’s list of honorees represents a broad spectrum of industries, and we are privileged to have them among our community,” said Idaho Business Review Publisher Cindy Suffa in the publication’s award story.

Idaho Business Review reported, “This selection committee reviewed the applicants and selected the 50 honorees based on four categories: professional achievement, leadership, mentorship and community service…Each year, the Idaho Business Review announces an overall top winner as the Woman of the Year (based on scores from the judges and Idaho Business Review staff members), who is unveiled at the awards gala and introduced by the former year’s winner. Last year’s Woman of the Year was Odette Bolano of Saint Alphonsus Health System.”

For more information about the award and tickets to the 2022 Women of the Year gala Thurs., Sept. 22 at Boise Centre, click here. For the complete story, click here.

Need to Know if Someone is an IMA Member?

Jeanne Jackson-Heim, MBA — Tue, 17 May 2022 13:35:21 GMT

IMA has received a complaint that a candidate for public office is advertising himself as a member of IMA, although he is not currently a member. IMA regrets this misinformation. If you ever have questions about IMA membership, please do not hesitate to contact the IMA Administrator at admin@idahomediationassociation.org.