These services are open to faculty, and staff of VSU.

Mediation

Mediation is a voluntary, informal, and structured process in which an impartial third party, called a mediator, helps disputing parties generate and evaluate options for reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. A mediator does NOT have the power to impose an agreement on the parties. Many conflicts can be mediated and the CMRP is here to help you. Not all conflicts are appropriate for mediation, including the following:

  • Salary issues
  • University policy
  • Criminal matters

All campus mediators are professionally trained through the Consortium on Negotiation and Conflict Resolution (CNCR). In addition to VSU mediators, where appropriate, trained professionals from other University System schools are available to serve as mediators.

Click here to find out more about the mediation process.

Click here for examples of conflict situations that might benefit from mediation.

If you are interested in exploring mediation as an option for resolving a conflict, contact us by email at cmrp@valdosta.edu. Inquires are confidential.

Conflict Coaching

Conflict coaching is a process in which a coach and a client communicate one-on-one for the purpose of developing a strategy and further understanding of the conflict situation to better prepare the client for resolving the conflict. There are four stages to the process where you will explore your conflict-related understanding, interaction strategies, and interaction skills. Conflict Coaching is an empowering and facilitative process that can be used alone or in conjunction with another conflict resolution approach. Conflict coaches have received training through the Consortium on Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Program.

If you are interested in exploring Conflict Coaching as an option for managing a conflict, contact us by email at cmrp@valdosta.edu. Inquires are confidential.

Restorative Practice

Restorative Practices is a people-centered process that focuses on building or restoring relationships. It can be either proactive by developing relationships and building community or reactive by responding to conflicts and problems. Historically, circles have been used by Indigenous peoples with a facilitator guiding the process fairly and encouraging everyone to participate. Circles are used in RP so everyone in the circle can see each other, encouraging open communication. During the circle, a “talking stick” is used to give everyone a voice and ensure civility is maintained.

The goals are conflict resolution, healing, support, inclusive decision-making, information exchange, and relationship development. Ultimately, closure is the desired outcome.

If you are interested in exploring restorative practices as an option for resolving a conflict, contact us by email at cmrp@valdosta.edu. Inquiries are confidential.

Conflict Management Training

Training on a variety of conflict management skills is available for student organizations, departments, special groups and individuals. We work with you to customize the material and format to meet your needs.

Some of our class offerings include:

  • How to Turn Conflict into Collaboration
  • Communication and Conflict Management Skills for Supervisors
  • Conflict Coaching
  • Understanding the Mediation Process

To schedule a training session or obtain more information on conflict management resources, contact the Conflict Management & Restorative Practices Committee at cmrp@valdosta.edu.