Challenges of Being an Advocate and Neutral Facilitator

Challenges of Being an Advocate and Neutral Facilitator

Advocacy and mediation are always being incorporated into various areas of the human services field. While the potential exists for moral, ethical and legal challenges with dual relationships, there are specific approaches that can be used to offset the chances of the duality.

Dual Relationship Challenges

It is the goal of a mediator is to assist in settling disputes between two or more individuals. They often facilitate communication in order to reach common ground in a timely fashion. The primary objective as a mediator is to remain neutral. The mediator assists in conflict resolution, not make any judgments or decisions. Ultimately, any conflicts must be resolved by the parties involved. If either of the disputing parties feels that the mediator as biased or partial, it is in their best interests to seek different mediator to help resolve the conflict (Worldwide Legal Directories, 1995-2011).

Integration of Mediation and Advocacy

The integration of mediators and advocates in Social Services is an imperative. Clients are usually unaware of all their rights, privileges and civil liberties. Professionals are needed to preserve these rights (Community Mediation Services, 2011). Mediators are the key because they encourage communication between feuding parties. Advocates are there to help groups or individuals who may not be aware of their basic human rights.

Personal Philosophy and Approach

No matter how my services are needed, it is essential, as a mediator that I do not bring any preconceived beliefs or personal bias. This seems to be especially true when talking about Planned Parenthood. It is crucial to the success of the mediation process that the mediator only explains the options that are available between two disagreeing factions and find