Divorce Mediation Insights from 2025 NYSCDM Conference

Learning and Connecting with Fellow Mediators at the 2025 NYSCDM Conference

From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere was both warm and energizing. Dozens of divorce mediators, attorneys, and collaborative professionals from across New York gathered to share knowledge and connect with colleagues. It was truly an incredible opportunity to learn with fellow divorce professionals across New York State. Every time I attend, I return with great practice takeaways and amazing new connections.

• In-Person Connection:

  • After the last few years of Zoom trainings, being face-to-face with peers was invaluable. As one of my colleagues observed, while we can earn updates and CLE credits online, mediators truly “go to connect and communicate with our fellow mediators” – and that happened in spades at this symposium. The historic Gideon Putnam Hotel, nestled in bucolic Saratoga Springs, made it even more special.

• Networking:

  • During coffee breaks and the casual networking lunch, I met seasoned mediators and other professionals who have attended for decades, as well as newcomers excited to learn. We swapped stories, discussed challenges, and encouraged each other. The camaraderie at the 2025 NYSCDM Conference reminded me that even though much of our work is one-on-one with clients, we have a supportive community of like-minded professionals. I built new friendships and strengthened existing ones – connections that will last well beyond the weekend.

Continuing Education and Fresh Insights

The symposium wasn’t just about networking – it delivered robust learning experiences. Continuing education credits were provided for all sessions, so every workshop and presentation counted toward our professional development. As a dedicated divorce mediator (serving Saratoga Springs, Albany, Ballston Spa, and as a divorce mediator in Schenectady), I value any chance to sharpen my skills. This conference did not disappoint.

Highlights from the 2025 NYSCDM Conference Education Sessions:

1. Keynote – “Mending the Pieces”:

   • We kicked off with a powerful masterclass by Christina McGhee, a renowned parenting expert. The theme was helping families redefine themselves after divorce. “Divorce doesn’t end a family — it changes it,” McGhee reminded us. That insight struck a chord. The discussion focused on guiding parents to strengthen their connection with their children through the transition. I learned practical strategies to help co-parents move from conflict to collaboration, keeping kids at the center of focus. It reinforced my belief that with the right support, divorced families can still thrive.

2. Courts and Mediation (Plenary):

   • A panel featuring New York court ADR coordinators explored how mediators and the courts can work together to help families in transition. This gave me a fresh perspective on the larger ecosystem of dispute resolution. Acknowledging and reinforcing how the legal system views mediation helps me guide clients who also have court proceedings. It was encouraging to hear court representatives value what we do as mediators.

3. Marketing Your Practice:

   • In a practical session, fellow mediators shared tips on reaching the people who need our services. We discussed Google and social media trends, content creation, and even video marketing. As someone who serves the Albany area and Capital Region, I know that spreading the word about the benefits of mediation is key. I left with concrete ideas to help more couples find our practice – and to highlight why a better future starts with better communication.

4. Specialized Topics:

   • We also dove into advanced topics like financial issues in divorce (equitable distribution, tax implications, retirement assets) and navigating mental health and family dynamics. One session on addressing addiction in mediation was eye-opening – it balanced compassion with the need to ensure safety and trust in the process. Another on real estate “loopholes” taught us how to handle tricky property issues that can arise. These workshops enhanced and reinforced my toolkit for handling complex situations, so I can continue to serve couples effectively in my day-to-day mediations.

Each presentation not only delivered knowledge but also reinforced the core principles that make mediation so powerful. I found myself continually thinking, “yes, this is why I do what I do.” The symposium blended theoretical insights, practical techniques, and ethical best practices, giving us a well-rounded educational experience.

Reinforcing What I Love About Mediation

Perhaps the greatest gift of attending the NYSCDM Symposium was how it reinvigorated my passion for mediation. After several days immersed in these discussions, I came home affirmed in what I’ve always known and loved about this work:

• Impartiality with Compassion:

  • I was reminded that a good mediator is firmly impartial – we don’t take sides – yet deeply compassionate to both parties. Many speakers echoed the importance of helping both parties feel heard without taking sides. This has always been my focus at Consenso Mediation, and hearing it emphasized by experts reinforced that neutrality plus empathy is the key to conflict resolution.

• Giving Everyone a Voice:

  • A recurring theme was ensuring that each person’s voice is heard in the process. Whether it’s a divorcing couple, their children, or extended family, mediation creates a safe space for everyone to express their needs and concerns. I was moved by stories of mediators who helped estranged spouses come back to the table and communicate constructively. It affirmed my commitment to making sure no one feels overlooked or overpowered during mediation.

• Better Communication, Better Future:

  • Throughout the sessions, the mantra “a better future starts with better communication” kept coming to mind. When couples learn to communicate with respect, even as they separate, they set the stage for a healthier future – especially if kids are involved. The symposium reinforced that mediation is fundamentally about better communication. It’s about taking people from talking at each other to talking with each other. I truly believe that when we facilitate understanding, we’re not just resolving immediate disputes – we’re empowering people with skills for a more positive future.

• Hope and Forward-Focus:

  • Divorce can be emotionally draining, but the tone of this conference was hopeful. It reminded me that mediation isn’t about dwelling on what went wrong in the marriage; it’s about building a foundation for the next chapter. Whether that means crafting a fair parenting plan or an amicable property division, we’re helping clients create a roadmap for their futures. I left feeling even more committed to guiding people toward amicable resolutions and brighter tomorrows.

Bringing It Home – Divorce Mediation in Schenectady, Saratoga Springs & the Albany Area

After this inspiring weekend at the 2025 NYSCDM Conference, I’m excited to bring these insights and renewed energy back to my practice. Consenso Mediation is based in Saratoga County, and my work as a divorce mediator takes me all over the Capital Region – from Schenectady and Albany to small towns and cities beyond. No matter where my clients are from, the lessons from the NYSCDM Symposium will benefit them:

• Couples in Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa, Schenectady, Troy, and beyond can trust that I’m up-to-date on the latest techniques and state-specific knowledge. (Staying current with continuing education means I can offer you the most informed guidance available.)

• Families will find that I approach their case with fresh ideas and time-tested strategies refined by training and collaboration with peers statewide.

• Everyone I work with can be assured that I’m connected to a larger network of professionals. If a particular case needs a specialist (be it a child therapist, financial planner, or collaborative attorney), I likely met one at the symposium and can reach out. The Capital Region community benefits when its mediators are engaged in ongoing learning and professional development.

In short, this conference reminded me that even as I work locally, I’m supported by and contributing to a state-wide community of mediators who are all striving to help families navigate divorce with dignity and respect.

Ready to Help You Move Forward – Contact Michaele Today

I’m truly grateful I took the time to attend the NYSCDM Annual Symposium. It not only reinforced why I love being a divorce mediator, but also equipped me with new tools to serve you better. My belief is stronger than ever that a better future starts with better communication, and I’m here to facilitate that dialogue for you and your family.

If you’re looking for a fair, compassionate partner to guide you through your divorce, let’s talk.

Whether you’re in Saratoga, Schenectady, Albany, or anywhere in between, I’m ready to help both parties feel heard and find common ground for a brighter future. Contact Michaele today to schedule a consultation – a better future through better communication awaits. Let’s start the next chapter together.

(Michaele Gantz is a trusted divorce mediator in Saratoga Springs and a caring divorce mediator in Schenectady, also serving couples in Ballston Spa, Albany, and across New York’s Capital Region. Feel free to reach out via phone or send a message through our website to learn more about how divorce mediation can help you.)

Call us today (917) 992-4750