Mediation Overview

To schedule, email wsmith@gafamilycounseling.com

All mediation services are $200.00 an hour; the rates are often split between parties.

Health insurance will not cover mediation.

Greater Atlanta Family Counseling (GAFC) offers both formal and informal mediation services to help resolve conflicts efficiently and collaboratively.

Also known as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), mediation is a popular option for addressing disputes before - or instead of - court filings, litigation, or trial. It offers several key benefits:

  • Mediation is confidential.

  • All parties have a clear and equal voice in working toward a mutually satisfactory outcome—something that is rarely achieved in litigation.

  • It significantly reduces stress and conflict compared to courtroom litigation.

  • Parties can resolve sensitive issues without involving attorneys.

  • Mediation is generally a low-cost alternative, often costing only a fraction of traditional legal fees.

GAFC specializes in mediation related to children, families, and healthcare. We are one of the few mediation providers in Georgia with a focus on disputes involving psychiatric and addiction healthcare. Our expertise also includes resolving civil cases, coordinating care and finances, and addressing living arrangements and eviction issues.

Formal Mediation:
When formal mediation results in an agreement—whether full, partial, or temporary—the terms are submitted to a judge for approval. Once the judge signs off, the agreement becomes legally binding. If any party fails to uphold the agreement, they may be found in breach of contract or in contempt of court, and may be subject to legal consequences. Formal mediation is commonly used for matters such as divorce, parenting plans, child custody modifications, guardianship disagreements, and civil dispute resolutions.

Informal Mediation:
Informal mediation uses the same techniques as formal mediation, but the results are not filed with the court. At GAFC, informal mediation is frequently used to work through issues like coparenting challenges, housing conflicts (including eviction), financial disputes, and healthcare or eldercare disagreements.