Simon Mediation - Santa Barbara, California

Molly Darsow

Dan Simon’s transformative mediation training offers a profound and impactful approach to conflict resolution.

Simon's approach to mediation is rooted in the transformative framework, which focuses on changing the way parties perceive and engage with each other rather than just addressing the immediate issues at hand. His training sessions are designed to shift perspectives, encouraging participants to move beyond positional bargaining and work towards genuine understanding of human behavior in conflict.

The training is highly interactive and engaging, in an environment where learners can practice new skills in a supportive setting, receiving constructive feedback that enhances their mediation effectiveness.

I benefitted so much from Dan’s training and highly recommend him as a trainer and mediator.

Andy Shelby

I recently attended Dan Simon’s 20 hour on-line transformative mediation training session. Bottom line, it was excellent and provided me with a better foundation for what the transformative mediation model has to offer.

The course begins to lay out the foundation of the principles by explaining the ‘what’ the model is all about, then moves into ‘why’ is makes sense vs other models, and then ends with the ‘how’ is works with several role plays for understanding and practice.

The course was very interactive between Dan and the class participants. Dan also brings in some other experts in the field to provide their insight and feedback during the role-playing sessions.

Prior to the class I had a general understanding of the transformative mediation model, but Dan’s class gave me a much better foundation, insight, and practice of this process. Definitely a worthwhile experience.

Nancy Payne

It’s always a pleasure to learn from the best! After recently attending Dan’s transformative mediation course, I can say unequivocally that was my experience. Not only Dan’s years of experience and deep passion for transformative mediation, the videos and breakout discussions to deepen our learning and connection to the broader community for further networking and practicing are but a few of the takeaways from the program. I would highly recommend taking any of Dan’s programs!!

Jay Bryan

I thoroughly enjoyed Dan Simon’s training, “Mediation: Principles & Practice, The Transformative Approach, March 2023”. Dan’s manual was orderly, succinct, and easy to follow and use as a practice tool as he taught the course. He was inclusive, knowledgeable, and thoughtful about presentation of the theory behind the Transformative Approach and the phrasing and use of its interventions, and he was sensitive to many in the class who were not familiar with or had not used the approach in their mediation practice. Role plays were numerous, along with videos of mediations by fellow mediators connected with the Institute for the Study of Conflict Transformation. They helped the members know and support each other in learning. Three role plays on the last two days were coached by Dan and three very experienced and certified transformative mediators like him. He was flexible and encouraged questions and discussions after each hour and each day to which he gave respectful and instructive answers and suggestions. He was kind, easy going, unflappable, and believes deeply in the peace and understanding that the transformative approach can bring to conflict that ensnares people in suffering and impairs their relationship.

Ashley Walsdorf

Completely sold on Transformative Mediation after taking Dan's training on working with divorcing families. Excellent presenter(s), content, and preparation. After the 40-hour training, I'm ready to jump into the work. 10/10

Caroline Wood

Previously trained in Transformative Mediation and totally enhanced in this training by Dan and his team!! Absolutely worth it from someone who seldomly makes such a claim!! Caroline Wood, Family Mediator

Myriam Delonca

Inspiring trainer for transformative mediation, but not only Dan is inspiring but he is also a great praticionner in mediation.

Katie Newell

So educational and inspiring to learn from Dan. Highly recommend for any level mediator 🙂