From Unsettled to Unstoppable: My Journey to Becoming a Mediator

By Elizabeth Swen, GDC Certified Mediator

Ever felt like something was missing, even when you were doing “all the right things” in your career? That’s exactly how I felt after years of working as a legal assistant and paralegal. I got valuable experience at some really great law firms, but deep down, I was restless. I knew there had to be something more out there for me.

Then, I heard about the NVMS mediation program. The idea of helping people find common ground and work out their own problems felt right. I got in touch with NVMS and started volunteering at their Fairfax office. That first step was a game-changer.

It was there that I learned about its “basic mediation training” and the exciting chance to become a certified mediator. Getting certified meant a big commitment of time and effort, but I was all in. I dove into NVMS’s intense 28-hour Basic Mediation Skills and Process Training. After that, I took a four-hour class on how the Virginia court system works. I also participated as an observer in two real mediations and, with the guidance of an experienced mentor, helped mediate three Fairfax County General District Court (GDC) cases myself.

This whole process cost me time and money, but honestly, every single moment felt worth it. I was finally on a career path that felt truly right – one where I could really give back to the community by helping people sort out their disagreements in a positive way. The day I got my official GDC mediation certification from the Supreme Court of Virginia, on July 15, 2024, I was absolutely thrilled!

Since becoming a certified GDC mediator, I’ve had the chance to mediate in several small claims cases. And each one has been a powerful reminder: every dispute is unique. They’re like complex puzzles made up of different people’s views, feelings, and life situations. Even though we call them “civil matters,” they truly come in all shapes and sizes.

As a mediator, I’ve learned that I have to approach every case with an open mind. I use everything I’ve learned from my training and all my life experiences to help. It’s about being fully present, flexible, and helping people truly talk to each other. My goal isn’t to tell them what to do, but to guide them towards finding their own solutions – empowering them to create agreements that actually work for them.

I am incredibly grateful for the NVMS Mediation training program. It not only gave me the essential skills but also the priceless hands-on experience I needed to succeed in this field. I’m really looking forward to continuing my work with this amazing organization in the future. 

Are you curious about how mediation could help you resolve a dispute? To start your journey, NVMS has an in-person 28-hour Basic Mediation Skills and Process training in October. It could be your investment in a new career path where your work can truly make a difference for people.