Conflict-of-Interest Policy
Mediation only works when every participant can trust that the mediator is fair to all sides. Because In-House Mediation is offered within a counseling center, we hold ourselves to clear boundaries between counseling and mediation.
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Former and current counseling clients. Julie Witt does not mediate for anyone who is, or ever has been, her counseling client.
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Disclosure of Babb Center relationships. Before mediation begins, Julie discloses to all parties any relationship she is aware of between any party (or a party's child or close family member) and the Babb Center, including current or past counseling with another Babb Center clinician. Clinical details are never shared; only the existence of the relationship is disclosed, and only with that person's permission. If permission is not given, Julie will decline the mediation.
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Other relationships. Julie also discloses any personal, professional, financial, or church-community relationship with a party, attorney, or witness that could reasonably raise a question about her impartiality.
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The parties' choice. After disclosure, every party may decline to proceed with Julie, with no explanation needed. Mediation proceeds only if all parties agree in writing.
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Ongoing duty. If a potential conflict arises during mediation, Julie discloses it promptly. She will withdraw if she believes she can no longer remain impartial or if any party's confidence in her neutrality cannot be restored.
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Separate roles going forward. Julie does not provide counseling to a party she has mediated for regarding the matters addressed in mediation. Referrals to other Babb Center clinicians remain available.
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Separate records. Mediation files are kept separate from Babb Center counseling records. No information passes between mediation and counseling without the individual's written consent, except as required by law.
Questions about this policy are welcome at any time. Call (615) 824-3772 or email julie@inhousemediation.com.