hands are united late afternoon man in distress and grieving

Family Mediation and
Collaborative Family Law

I am passionate about my work in mediation and collaborative family law.

couple in silenceAfter working almost three decades as a therapist and two decades in family law, I recognize the life-long scars that can result from an adversarial family breakup. Too often, parents "survive" the process with deep seated resentments and distrust. Too often, the children lose a critical connection with one parent. Their spark goes out, leaving them feeling guilty about themselves and fearful and pessimistic about life.



couple listening to Dr. James ColeThis is not necessary. Alternatives are available to the traditional adversarial system of depreciating one's previous partner and vanquishing them in a court room.






couple working with Dr. James Cole Mediation and Collaborative Family Law return respect to the couple's relationship during their separation and dissolution. These procedures promote understanding and effective communication between the parties and emphasize solutions that work toward the satisfaction of the needs of both adults and children. Parents work together to craft a plan which will address the developmental needs of their children. No more decisions need be made by anonymous figures in black robes.


More about Family Mediation

More about Collaborative Family Law