Mediation is a collaborative method of dispute resolution.  As an alternative to litigation, mediation is a process by which parties in conflict come together to resolve disputes and negotiate mutually beneficial agreements with the help of an impartial third party, who facilitates the discussions and agreement negotiation.  In divorce and family disputes, the process has a number of advantages over an adjudicated or court supervised settlement:           The participants make all decisions...not third parties Decision-making that meets the needs of all involved is facilitated The parties work together in a non-adversarial environment The process is confidential and informal Costs, time and stress may be minimized The couple control the outcome           In family separation and parenting issues, the mediation process has been shown to be effective in reaching voluntary agreements related to parenting schedules, parental decision-making, child support, children's education and religious training, medical decisions, insurance issues, property settlements, and other financial concerns.  It allows the parties to retain complete control of decision-making with minimal involvement of attorneys and the courts.