What's Inside This Guide?

Our first session preparation guide covers:

• What happens in your first session The structure, ground rules, and process
• Practical preparation Documents to bring, questions to consider, logistics
• Emotional preparation Managing anxiety and setting realistic expectations
• Staying calm Strategies for difficult moments and managing conflict
• What if we can't agree? Next steps and alternatives explained

What to Expect in Your First Session

Your first joint mediation session typically lasts 90 minutes. The mediator will explain the process, establish ground rules, and help you create an agenda of issues to discuss.

You won't solve everything in one session. The goal is to start the conversation, identify priorities, and agree on what information you need to gather before the next session.

• Introductions and ground rules
• Setting the agenda - what needs to be discussed
• Identifying priorities and areas of agreement
• Planning next steps and information gathering
• Scheduling follow-up sessions

How to Prepare Emotionally

It's normal to feel anxious before your first session. You might be worried about seeing your ex-partner, concerned about conflict, or unsure if mediation will work.

Remember: the mediator's job is to keep the conversation calm, balanced, and focused. They'll intervene if things become heated or one-sided. You're not alone in the room.