Short Course Description
This course equips mediators with the critical knowledge and practical skills needed to safely and ethically manage cases involving Interpersonal Violence (IPV). Participants will explore the dynamics of power imbalance, coercive control, and the complexities these factors introduce into the mediation process. Emphasizing a “safety-first” approach, the course provides structured guidance on screening, risk assessment, and determining whether mediation is appropriate. Grounded in Florida ethical standards, participants will learn how to adapt mediation practices to protect all parties while maintaining professional integrity and compliance.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Identify various forms and dynamics of Interpersonal Violence (IPV)
- Recognize indicators of power imbalance and coercive control in mediation settings
- Conduct effective IPV screening and perform risk assessments
- Evaluate the appropriateness of mediation in cases involving IPV
- Apply safety protocols and modify mediation processes to ensure participant protection
- Understand and apply Florida ethical standards and mediator responsibilities in IPV-related cases
Reviews
Instructor(s)
Guno Ritfeld
Guno Ritfeld is a retired Department of Defense Commissioned Officer. He has earned a B.A. in Psychology/Education, a Juris Doctorate (J.D.), and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree.
He is certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a Circuit Civil, Family, and County mediator and has served as a County mediator at the Orange County courthouse. He served as a member of the City of Orlando Certification Appeals Board and Chapter 57 Discrimination Board, and as a contract Human Rights Mediator and Administrative Investigator for various state and federal agencies. He is an experienced commercial, workplace, and family dispute mediator and arbitrator.
This course did not have very good content.