Posted on November 26th, 2025

By: Dr. Robert W. Caruso, DMin, MDiv, MART, MA, ALMFT

Divorce. The word evokes various emotions, from sadness and anger to fear, worry, and uncertainty. While traditionally associated with lengthy court battles and adversarial proceedings, there’s a growing movement towards a more collaborative, constructive, and cooperative approach: divorce mediation. This process offers couples a chance to navigate their separation with dignity, control, and often a more positive outcome.

What is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation is a process where a neutral third party, the mediator, helps divorcing couples communicate effectively and reach mutually acceptable agreements on the various aspects of their separation. Unlike a judge who imposes decisions, the mediator facilitates discussions, helps identify each party’s needs and priorities, and guides them towards solutions they can both live with. The mediator does not offer legal advice but is skilled in the art of cooperation and general knowledge of family law, helping the couple explore options and understand the potential consequences of their choices.

What Issues Can Be Addressed in Mediation?

Mediation can be used to resolve a wide range of divorce-related issues, including:

• Child Custody and Visitation: Determining a parenting plan that outlines legal custody, physical custody, visitation schedules, and how important decisions regarding the children’s upbringing will be made.
• Child Support: Calculating fair and appropriate child support payments based on state guidelines and the specific needs of the children.
• Spousal Support (a.k.a., Alimony or Maintenance): Addressing whether spousal support is appropriate, the amount, and the duration.
• Division of Assets and Debts: This involves determining how to divide marital property, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings, as well as how to handle joint debts.

What Are the Benefits of Divorce Mediation?

Choosing mediation over litigation offers several significant advantages, such as:

• Cost-Effective: Mediation is typically less expensive than going to court. It reduces legal fees and other associated costs.
• Control: Couples retain control over the outcome of their divorce rather than having a judge make decisions for them, and both parties are sometimes left feeling that the decisions made were unfair.
• Faster Resolution: Mediation can often lead to a quicker resolution than court proceedings, which can be lengthy and drawn out.
• Improved Communication: The mediation process can help improve communication between the parties, which can be especially beneficial for parents needing to co-parent after the divorce.
• Reduced Conflict: Mediation can minimize conflict and animosity by working together to find solutions, leading to a less stressful and more amicable divorce.
• Confidentiality: Mediation sessions at The Caruso Wellness Clinic are confidential and conducted between the couple apart from the presence of their lawyers (if lawyers are involved), which allows for open and honest communication.
• Better Outcomes for Children: Children often fare better when their parents resolve their differences through mediation, reducing their exposure to conflict and promoting a more cooperative co-parenting relationship.

Is Mediation Right for Everyone?

While mediation is a powerful tool, it’s not suitable for every situation. Cases involving domestic violence, abuse, or significant power imbalances may not be appropriate for mediation. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney to assess whether mediation is viable in your specific circumstances.

What Does the Mediation Process Entail?

Here at The Caruso Wellness Center, the mediation process with Dr. Robert Caruso involves several stages:

1. Initial Consultation: Meeting with the mediator to discuss the process and determine if it’s a good fit.
2. Information Gathering: Sharing relevant financial and other information.
3. Negotiation: Working with the mediator to identify issues, explore options, and negotiate agreements.
4. Agreement Drafting: The mediator helps draft a written agreement that outlines the terms of the Mediator Settlement Agreement.
5. Review by Attorneys: It’s highly recommended that both parties have their Mediator Settlement Agreement reviewed by their attorneys before signing.
6. Finalization: Once both parties agree and their attorneys have reviewed the Mediator Settlement Agreement, the parties can submit it to the court for final approval and ordered judgment.

Mediation: A More Peaceful Path

Divorce mediation offers a more peaceful and collaborative way to navigate the complexities of separation. By empowering couples to make their own decisions, mediation can lead to more satisfying outcomes, reduced conflict, and a smoother transition for all involved, especially children. If you’re considering divorce, exploring mediation can be a valuable first step toward a brighter future. Contact Dr. Robert Caruso today to discuss if Divorce Mediation is right for you: [email protected] or 224-875-0393.

*Dr. Robert Caruso is a seasoned marriage counselor and an American Bar Association-certified paralegal in Family Law. He has over 22 years of experience helping couples in complex mediation cases.