Letter from the President

Welcome prospective members, current members, those seeking the services of a mediator; and/or those looking to learn more about mediation. Please explore our website.

The New York State Council on Divorce Mediation promotes mediation as the first choice when couples are separating, divorcing, or facing family conflicts and/or changes. Mediation provides an environment to discuss and resolve difficult issues, allows the couple to maintain control of the outcome, and is generally less expensive than a traditional, adversarial process. If you are looking for a mediator, we encourage you to visit the “Find a Mediator” section of our site.

The New York State Council on Divorce Mediation also promotes the highest professional standards for divorce mediation. The Council had been Accrediting mediators since 1986. This professional designation requires family and divorce mediators to demonstrate their experience and skill as a mediator. We also assist and encourage mediator excellence by offering: continuing education at three conferences each year, webinars, regular peer group meetings throughout the state, publications and newsletters, and a member Listserv which offers updated information and a forum for mediators to seek and find answers. If you are considering membership, please join us! You will gain the support and friendship of fellow mediators throughout the State. You can sign up for membership by visiting the “Become a Member: Join” page.

I am honored to serve as President of the New York State Council on Divorce Mediation and I want to make my time in service to the Council meaningful.  I am thankful to be part of a wonderful Board of Directors that works very hard to achieve the goals of the Council that are set forth on our Mission Statement. Following in the footsteps of the past Presidents, I have a great appreciation for the collective wisdom of our members that will help guide us as we move forward. I am looking forward to developing and supporting initiatives that inspire our members, encourage interdisciplinary relationships and provide for continued growth and development. Our educational initiatives will help us keep pace with the changing needs of the families with whom we work. We are privileged to have founding members still actively involved to ground us in our history and remind us of the work we’ve done. At the same time, we are fortunate to have new members bring fresh insights and energy to carry out our goals as we move forward. If you are a current member, I encourage you to get involved by volunteering on a committee. 

If you need any additional information, please feel free to contact me or our executive director

Sincerely,

Deborah Hope Wayne, Esq.
President
New York State Council on Divorce Mediation