The training program curriculum shall cover the following:

1. (a) The topics described in Fam 604.02;

2. (b) Procedures to be used by mediators for gathering information from:

   1. (1) The mediation parties;
   2. (2) The mediation parties' records; and
   3. (3) Sources outside those of the mediation parties themselves, such as attorneys, appraisers, accountants, therapists, and other similar outside sources;

3. (c) Relationship skills, including, but not limited to:

   1. (1) Contracting to supply mediation services;
   2. (2) Expressing impartiality;
   3. (3) Maintaining neutrality as to the mediation parties; and
   4. (4) Adhering to principles of confidentiality;
4. (d) Communication skills facilitating negotiation and cooperation between the mediation parties;

5. (e) Facilitation of problem solving between the mediation parties with respect to:

   1. (1) Parental rights and responsibilities;
   2. (2) Child and spousal support;
   3. (3) The division of assets and liabilities;
   4. (4) Tax filings; and
   5. (5) Other such topics of potential dispute in the context of divorce;

6. (f) Topics related to conflict and conflict resolution, including:

   1. (1) Theories of conflict and conflict resolution;
   2. (2) Current research on conflict and conflict resolution; and
   3. (3) The applicability of such theories and current research to family mediation;
7. (g) The impact of differences in culture, gender, ethnicity, religion, and race on mediation;
8. (h) Mediation theory and history;
9. (i) Mediation skills;

10. (j) Family relationships, including:

    1. (1) Family interactions in the divorce process; and
    2. (2) Post-divorce family structures;
11. (k) Budgeting and financial planning in the context of separation and divorce;
12. (l) Stages of child development;
13. (m) The effects of divorce on children;

14. (n) Recognition of incapacity or unwillingness of a party to engage or proceed in mediation, including that arising from:

    1. (1) Alcohol or other substance abuse;
    2. (2) Personality disorders;
    3. (3) Depression;
    4. (4) Fear or anxiety;
    5. (5) Intimidation; and
    6. (6) An inability to comprehend the issues to be discussed in mediation;

15. (o) Federal laws affecting divorce, including:

    1. (1) The tax consequences of divorce; and
    2. (2) The division of retirement benefits; and
16. (p) Professional resources for mediators, such as professional associations and publications.

Source. #9087, eff 2-16-08; ss by #9675, eff 4-2-10; ss by #12507, INTERIM, eff 4-2-18, EXPIRED: 10-1-18 New. #12637, eff 10-2-18