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Training with Alhadeff & Forbes

Alhadeff & Forbes Mediation Affiliates was established by Alan Alhadeff, an attorney with a keen understanding of the dynamics of conflict and the needs of lawyers and clients. Alan was responsible for creating some of the first mediator training programs in the country, and in this way continues his contribution to the development of mediation as a field.

Mediator training courses taught by Alan Alhadeff and Micky Forbes provide a rich framework for understanding the psychological dynamics of mediation and present a full toolbox of techniques that have become recognized nationwide as effective practices.  We believe you will find our approach refreshing and affirming. 

Our programs are presented in small group settings and generally cost less than $40 per CLE hour.

Review our courses below or take advantage of our customized programs created for your specific interests.  Call us to discuss how we can meet your mediation and training needs.

Four-Day Essential Mediator Training Program


This program is for anyone who works in a position that includes working as a problem solver, manager, negotiator, or mediator, including collaborative lawyers. Our 4 day workshop focuses on the basic role of the mediator. The course begins with an overview of the mediation process and an exploration of the nature of conflict and how it progresses. Next, we introduce the practical aspects of conducting a mediation. These nuts and bolts include how to set up a case, conduct pre-session meetings with each party, set agendas, conduct an opening joint session, direct private caucuses, and reach closure. We also review modern negotiation practices such as interest bargaining, listening skills and communication techniques. We practice with extensive role play exercises, demonstrations, and debriefing exercises. Finally, because effective mediation begins with a vision that genuine peace is achievable, we expand the possibilities for resolving conflict by exploring the importance of mindfulness, acceptance, gratitude, and forgiveness in mediation.

CLE Accreditation: Approved for 35.0 CLE credits by the Washington State Bar Association, 6.5 in ethics.

Registration and Fee: The cost of the 4-day intensive training program, including one day follow-up session, is $1,275. Please contact us to register.

Two-Day Enhanced Mediator Training Program


This is an advanced workshop for individuals familiar with mediation. The applications covered include how to work with clients in setting goals, effective initial presentations at the mediation session, identifying and broadening perspectives, and strategies for building and maintaining momentum toward creating full-context solutions to complex problems. We focus on issues of neutrality and how to create spaces that enable people to achieve greater success in finding lasting solutions. This workshop is held in a small group setting to ensure that a significant amount of personalized attention is available to each participant.

CLE Accreditation: Approved for 14 CLE credits by the Washington State Bar Association, 2.0 in ethics.

Registration and Fee: The cost of the 2-day intensive training program is $725. Please contact us to register.

Small Group Training

Our Small Group Training is targeted for experienced mediators who are interested in deep exploration of various techniques and approaches.These forums are a wonderful opportunity for mediators to share lessons they have learned in the field with one another. 

Course duration, 6 hours. Please contact us to register.

Customized Organizational Training

These 1 to 3 day programs are designed for people experiencing non-constructive conflict in the workplace. We teach you to utilize mediation skills in your professional and personal life. Participants are instructed in the skills used by mediators for resolving conflict. Strategies and techniques are practiced in role play exercises that are tailored to specific audience needs. Conflict recognition and negotiation skills are emphasized as we develop practical, cooperative, problem-solving approaches to an array of life situations.

We welcome you along the path to learning the skills of alternative dispute resolution.

"I utilize the skills I gleaned from the training on a daily basis with clients, staff, family and friends. Mediation is a very useful approach to both comprehend and to utilize. Many professionals would benefit from this type of training."

— ROBERTA CHANG, LCSW, DCSW, Family Advocacy Specialist, US Coast Guard, Seattle 

"Alan really shaped me as a mediator. I have my own personality—but he put some structure around that personality that has gotten me through some difficult problems I couldn't have handled without him.

— MIKE ROBERTS, Mediator and Arbitrator JAMS, San Diego

"There are not very many people in the western United States who can train mediators like Alan can because he's got the experience."

— LARRY LEVY, mediator, Seattle 

"I learned more from Micky about negotiation and communication than any other lawyer I've worked with in 18 years."

— ROBERT SEEDER, Attorney, Federal Defender Program, Chicago