The Wall Street Journal 15 March published a piece by Clare Ansberry about the emergence of retreat centres for increasingly common issues such as anxiety and stress. It has been reported that attendance at such centres have increased by 20% since October 2016. The goal of these retreat centres is to assist individuals in establishing “a sense of understanding and empathy even if people hold a radically different position”. Tips in becoming a better listener:

– Focus on the person, not their opinions;

– Be attentive. Don’t look around, or sigh;

– Suspend your own judgment and analysis until the other party has finished;

– Don’t interrupt;

This article is relevant in how we approach mediation at Aequitas. Our clients are often feaful, anxious, and burdened with enormous financial and emotuional stresses. By actively listening how they articulate their needs and wants,  are we better able to provide effective mediation to assist in formulating a lasting parental agreement, allowing parties to move forward in their respective lives.

https://www.wsj.com/articles/a-new-retreat-for-these-times-1489511342