Conflict can arise anywhere—within families, between neighbors, or in the workplace—and when emotions run high, it can feel overwhelming. Mediation offers a calm and structured way to work through these challenges while keeping control in your hands, not the court’s or anyone else’s.

As a neutral and experienced mediator, I create a safe and respectful space where each person can share their perspective, be heard, and explore solutions that meet everyone’s needs. Our first session brings all parties together to understand the issues and listen to one another.

Then, we clarify goals, uncover interests, and identify areas of agreement. From there, I guide the conversation toward practical, fair, and lasting resolutions—whether you’re navigating a divorce, resolving a family dispute, addressing tension at work, or improving communication with a neighbor.

My process emphasizes respect, collaboration, and empowerment—so you can move forward with peace of mind and stronger relationships. As a local and experienced mediator, I take pride in the capability to mediate either virtually or in-person for clients in Albany, Troy, Latham, NY, and the surrounding areas.

For more information or to schedule a free, confidential consultation, please feel free to email caroline@cmelmediation.com or submit a contact form today.

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Control and Flexibility

Each party has full control over the process and the outcome. You can tailor your resolution to your specific needs and circumstances rather than having a solution imposed by a judge or arbitrator.

Faster Resolution

Mediation can be scheduled and completed much more quickly than a court case, which can take months or even years to resolve. Most disputes can be resolved in a half-day or full-day session. Divorces take place in short sessions over a period of a few weeks or a few months, depending on the circumstances.

Voluntary Participation

Mediation is voluntary. You choose to participate in the process and help craft the resolution.

Cost-Effective

Mediation is less expensive than going to court.

Confidentiality

Mediation is a private process. Unlike court cases, which are often public, mediation sessions are confidential, allowing you to discuss issues openly without fear of public exposure.

Preservation of Relationships

The mediation process emphasizes collaboration, mutual understanding and communication and can help preserve or even improve relationships. This is particularly important in disputes where you have ongoing interactions, such as in family, business, or community conflicts.

Empowerment

Mediation empowers you by encouraging active participation and giving you the tools and skills to resolve not only the current dispute but also potential future conflicts.

Creative Solutions

You can explore options that a court might not be able to order, leading to more tailored and satisfactory outcomes.

How Does Caroline Melkonian Mediation Work?

What Can I Expect?

Pre-Mediation

I offer free telephone consultations with each party so you can get to know me and to explain the process. If the parties agree to use the process and decide I am the right person for them, I will hold individual meetings with each party to further understand their perspective and identify key issues.

Mediation Session

Mediation Introduction

The mediation begins with a review of the process where I emphasize my confidentiality and neutrality. Each party will present their perspective on the dispute. This helps set the stage for understanding the issues at hand.

Discussion of Issues

I guide your discussion to identify the key issues that need to be resolved by listening carefully and asking questions to clarify points, challenge assumptions, and explore the underlying needs and interests of the parties. This helps to uncover common ground and potential areas for compromise.

Negotiation and Problem-Solving

Mediation may involve joint sessions where all parties are present, as well as private meetings between me and each party. I help you brainstorm possible solutions that address the interests of all parties. I will ensure discussions are balanced and productive, helping to overcome impasses and fostering cooperation. With my guidance, we will negotiate the terms of the settlement.

Reaching an Agreement

Once a solution is agreed upon, I will draft a written agreement outlining the terms of the settlement. The parties review the agreement, possibly with the help of their legal advisors, and sign it. The agreement is then legally binding and enforceable, depending on the jurisdiction.

Post-Mediation

The parties implement the terms of the agreement. I remain available to offer follow up to ensure compliance and address any additional issues that arise.

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