Over the past ten years the authors have been developing and practicing tips for managing high conflict clients in mediation, which is now a fully developed new method: New Ways for Mediation.® This book gives all of the little tips which any mediator can use, as well as the step-by-step structure of the New Ways for Mediation method for those who want to have better control of the process in high conflict cases—or any cases. Bill Eddy is primarily a family mediator in San Diego, California, with a worldwide reputation for training mediators, lawyers, judges and counselors in methods for working with clients with “high conflict” personality disorders or traits. Michael Lomax is a mediator dealing with family, workplace, military and government agency disputes in British Columbia, Canada. Both have provided trainings in this method for High Conflict Institute over the past ten years This book is divided into three parts: First, a thorough explanation is given of the thinking and behavior of parties with high conflict personalities, with an emphasis on what does not work and should be avoided. Second, a detailed description is provided for the New Ways for Mediation method, including several paradigm shifts in each step of the process for greater success. It’s similarities and differences with interest-based negotiations and transformative mediation methods are explained. Third, numerous examples are described with special issues in several settings, including family, workplace, and disputes involving government agencies. About the Authors: Bill Eddy, LCSW, Esq., is a lawyer, therapist, mediator and the Chief Innovation Officer of High Conflict Institute. He developed the "High Conflict Personality" theory (HCP Theory) and has become an international expert on managing disputes involving high conflict personalities and personality disorders. Michael Lomax, JD, is a mediator and conflict resolution trainer who has assisted many individuals and organizations in dealing with workplace conflict. Michael practiced law for 22 years and is currently a non-practicing member of the Law Society of BC. He has conducted hundreds of mediations including workplace, family, community and court related matters. Michael has designed and delivered many conflict resolution workshops for government, corporations, military and law enforcement agencies, human resources and union organizations. Michael is A Canadian Associate Speaker/Trainer with the High Conflict Institute in San Diego, CA and regularly delivers training on dealing with high conflict personalities across Canada and the United States. Michael joined the BC Public Service Agency in 2015 as the Conflict Management Lead where he is leading the design and implementation of an interest-based conflict management framework and coordination of service delivery to support constructive management of workplace conflict and early resolution of disputes for the BC Public Service. Michael also served on the Board of Directors for Mediate BC from 2013-2015.
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