Experience a bootcamp built for mediators, by mediators.
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Many believe that completing their 40-hour basic training marks the finish line.
At The Mediator’s Lab, you’ll discover it’s only the beginning.
The Mediator’s Lab
Practice, Perfect, Perform
Unlock your full potential as a mediator at our 2-day immersive bootcamp! Whether you’re looking to sharpen your negotiation techniques, enhance your active listening, or refine your mediation process, this event offers the perfect blend of hands-on practice, real-time feedback, and dynamic discussions.
The Mediator’s Lab
Practice, Perfect, Perform
Unlock your full potential as a mediator at our 2-day immersive bootcamp! Whether you’re looking to sharpen your negotiation techniques, enhance your active listening, or refine your mediation process, this event offers the perfect blend of hands-on practice, real-time feedback, and dynamic discussions.
Course Outline
Day 1 – Foundations & Emotional Dynamics
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Refresher on Mediation Techniques and Client Process
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Interactive Simulations & Role Plays
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Managing High Emotions and Hyperconflict
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Group Discussion, Feedback Exchange & Daily Debrief
Day 2 – Advanced Tools & Professional Growth
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Review of Key Negotiation Principles
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Interactive Simulations & Advanced Role Plays
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What’s Next After Basic Training: Building Credibility, Networking & Expanding Practice
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Group Discussion, Feedback
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Mentoring Session & Program Completion
Would you like to…
♦ Find time for regular mediation practice?
♦ Maintain and sharpen your mediation skills?
♦ Connect with experienced mediators and peers in a supportive and collaborative space?
♦ Gain valuable feedback that propels you forward in your practice?
♦ Receive the support necessary to continue advancing in your practice?
♦ Connect with a community of like-minded professionals?
♦ Access opportunities for networking, collaboration, and mutual learning?
♦ Build and maintain confidence in your skills as a mediator?
♦ Increase your visibility within the mediation community?
♦ Stay inspired, motivated, and deeply connected to the mediation field?
The Mediator’s Lab is built upon 3 core values
Practice, Connection, Growth
Practice, Connection, Growth
Practice: The Mediator’s Lab offers ample opportunities for you to refine your skills through dynamic role-plays and real-life mediation scenarios
Connection: The Mediator’s Lab offers a space where you can connect with experienced mediators and peers, engage in collaborative discussions, and receive real-time feedback
Growth: The Mediator’s Lab encourages you to push your boundaries, build confidence in your skills, and stay motivated
“Sonja’s innovative techniques and unwavering dedication to excellence have earned her the respect of both experienced and emerging professional mediators. She excels at quickly building rapport with parties in conflict by fostering trust and open communication. With skillful guidance, Sonja adeptly advances the conversation by demonstrating the power of empathy and ensuring that all perspectives are heard and considered in pursuit of a possible resolution.”
Nancy Boyle, Credentialed Distinguished Mediator, TMCA | Managing Partner at Conflict Rescue®, Forward Mediation® and Ask a Mediator®
What is the Mediator’s Lab exactly ?
It is a 2-day immersive bootcamp where mediators will immerse themselves in real-life scenarios and connect with a supportive community of like-minded professionals.
Practice
Practice
• Engage in dynamic role-plays that mirror the complexities of real-life mediations.
• Actively apply your knowledge to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
• Receive and provide constructive feedback to quickly adjust and improve.
• Ensure that even with limited daily practice, you remain proficient.
• Maintain passion and commitment to your mediation work, even when daily opportunities are scarce.
Perfect
Perfect
• Identify areas for improvement, allowing you to make precise adjustments and continuously refine your approach.
• Enhance communication techniques, manage emotions, and develop creative solutions.
• Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
• Practice and perfect your skills in a safe and supportive environment.
• Master the subtleties of communication, body language, and negotiation techniques to achieve a higher level of proficiency.
Perform
Perform
• Perform at your best in actual mediation settings.
• Overcome self-doubt and feel more confident in your ability to manage complex cases.
• Maintain a strong presence within the mediation community.
• Handle the diverse and challenging situations you may encounter in your professional practice.
• Approach real-life mediations with a higher level of preparedness and self-assurance.
THE MEDIATOR’S LAB AT A GLANCE…
Two full days (Friday and Saturday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm with a one-hour lunch break) of Practice, Practice, Practice.
You’ll dive deep into the world of mediation through intensive practice. Each session is followed by feedback and dynamic discussions to refine your mediation skills.
All Sessions Are LIVE on ZOOM
Participate in live, interactive sessions via Zoom, allowing you to engage with the facilitator and peers in real-time from anywhere in the world.
Collaborative Learning Environment
Connect with a group of like-minded professionals who share your passion for mediation. Learn from each other, share insights, and build a supportive network.
Expert Guidance from a Seasoned Mediator
Benefit from the insights of a seasoned mediator who serves as a guest host, offering valuable feedback and guidance throughout the bootcamp.
The Mediator’s Lab is supported by leaders in the field, including:
Nancy Boyle, Credentialed Distinguished Mediator, TMCA | Managing Partner at Conflict Rescue®, Forward Mediation® and Ask a Mediator®
♦ Prerequesites for this event:
Being a qualified mediator (meaning you certify you have taken at least one basic mediation training)
Welcome !
Welcome !
I am a TMCA Credentialed Mediator and the Membership Chair for the Texas Association of Mediators (TAM). I serve Central Texas and the Bexar County Dispute Resolution Center, where I mediate civil, business and community disputes, including court-ordered cases. With over 300 hours of conflict resolution training, I bring both depth and practicality to her work.
I am also an Expert Contributor with the High Conflict Institute, Consultant with Mosaic Collaborative and was honored with the 2025 TAM Rising Star Award. Passionate about mentorship, I initiated and lead TAM’s official Mentoring Program, connecting new mediators with seasoned professionals to support their growth and success in the field.
My goal is to create collective success in the field of mediation and dispute resolution.
My goal is to create collective success in the field of mediation and dispute resolution.
This is exciting and what the mediation profession needs.
Your leadership on the membership committee was wonderful. You’ve done a great job !
Sonja demonstrates dedication to the profession of alternative dispute resolution and supporting fellow mediators. She is excited about helping to expand our mediation expertise and outreach.
I really did appreciate your feedback during the role plays; it was very helpful. Most importantly, I have highlighted in my notes your comment about “it’s not my story”. I have since hijacked your phrase and used it in multiple situations, because that is such a perfect, short, impactful statement to mentally dissociate from internalizing other people’s situations and emotions.
Sonja is a dynamic and energetic leader that I’ve enjoyed working with on the Texas Association of Mediators Membership Committee. She has wonderful ideas and is diligent in executing new programs. Sonja is a highly trained mediator, including in high conflict mediation and family mediation.
I was continually impressed by her keen situational awareness and ability to discern what’s most important in a situation. She easily navigates interpersonal dynamics which serve her as a mediator resolving conflicts, just as it helps her maximize partnerships and joint projects.
It is time to raise the standard and visibility of the mediation profession as a whole.
It is time to raise the standard and visibility of the mediation profession as a whole.
F.A.Q
F.A.Q
How much time does the event require?
The event spans two full days, with each day scheduled from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, including a one-hour lunch break. This intensive schedule ensures that you get the most out of the bootcamp, with ample time for practice, feedback, and dynamic discussions.
Can I enroll if I didn’t complete a basic mediation training?
No. This bootcamp is designed for individuals who have already completed basic mediation training. If you haven’t received this foundational training, I encourage you to complete a basic course first to ensure you get the most out of this advanced practice-focused program.
Can I enroll if I did my training outside Texas or the USA?
Absolutely! Mediators who have received their training outside of Texas or even outside the USA are welcome to enroll. The skills and techniques we cover are applicable globally, and we value the diverse perspectives that international participants bring to the program.
Can I get a refund?
All signups are final, and no refunds are accepted. However, I understand that unexpected situations can arise. If you encounter a last-minute change, I offer the option to transfer your enrollment to the next available group, allowing you to still benefit from the program at a later date.
If you have any concern book your call for FREE here: 30min – Appel Découverte / Discovery Call | Sonja T.Wood | Cal.com