Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Blair Counseling and Mediation Rebuilding Relationships ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/articles-and-blogs/) - [Tips from Hostage Negotiaters](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/tips-from-hostage-negotiaters/) - Is there anything we can learn from hostage negotiators that applies to conflict resolution in relationships? While each scenario may have different outcomes, there may be something we can learn. Participants may feel similar: feeling threatened, unheard, trapped, or disrespected. We know the brain loses the ability to reason and listen when one is upset, - [The Role of Faith](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/role-faith/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor and family counselor Some look to their faith in God in their happiest or awe-struck moments, or some lean on their faith in their lowest or darkest times. Some turn to faith just in case it’s true, and some long for a relationship with a loving God. Some “know or - [Inner Conflict: Working with Parts of Self](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/inner-conflict-working-with-parts-of-self/) - While we can start by identifying what we feel and need, sometimes is it more complicated than that. We can all identify with a part of me want this, and a part of me wants that. Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a treatment modality and a way to understand and differentiate between your authentic "Self" - [Beyond the "I'm Fine": Practical Steps to Mental Health](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/beyond-the-im-fine-practical-steps-to-mental-health/) - By Dan Blair, family and marriage counselor We can all identify with stress. You can see how stress can not only leads to anger, which is a common emotion, but also anxiety, which can lead to substance use, depression and affect our most important relationships. Responding to stress, anger, substance use, depression and relationships - [Forgiving Versus Reconciling](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/forgiving-versus-reconciling/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Many choose to forgive because forgiveness has benefits for the forgiver. Forgiveness is a canceling of a "debt". One can choose to forgive so that anger doesn't destroy one's own sense of well-being, though this may require a grieving process. To forgive is to release oneself - [Connection Before Correction](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/connection-before-correction/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. While doing right leads to healthy relationships, the Bible also promotes the opposite: healthy relationships lead to doing right. Healthy relationships start between human and the divine, and then between humans. Here's an example of the importance of relationships: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift - [Effective Listening](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/effective-listening/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. What are some criteria for effective listening in the Bible? Some seek to correct the other person more than connect with them when "listening" and find the discussion frustrating. Use the following as a checklist to accomplish effective listening: Do you fully understand? Dig deeper. Psalms - [Biblical Tools for Mental Health](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/biblical-tools-for-mental-health/) - By Dan Blair, family and marriage therapist No one is immune to stress, anxiety, or burnout. "Popping the hood" of the mind may reveal what tools are needed for the daily battles we all face in the fight for joy. Understanding how the mind works can shed light on how we may use God-given tools. - [Stress Management Tips for Christians](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/stress-management-tips-for-christians/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Here's a Top Ten List of helpful approaches to stress management, incorporating Biblical approaches. "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit" (Psalm 34:18). 1. Relax. "If any of you are having trouble, pray" (James 5:13). "Be still and - [Does Joy and Suffering Go Together in the Bible?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/does-joy-and-suffering-go-together-in-the-bible/) - By Dan Blair, family and marriage counselor Joy is described in the Bible as both a gift and a choice. Fullness of joy, and in fact, pleasures forevermore are found in the presence of God (Psalms 16:11). 1st Peter 1:8 suggests that we can rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory. - ['Til Death (or Divorce) Do Us Part: How Do Christians View the Breaking of a Vow](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/til-death-or-divorce-do-us-part-how-do-christians-view-the-breaking-of-a-vow/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor All can agree that marriage was meant to be loving. We may differ when it comes to the breaking of a vow and what to do about it. Sometimes, a church may protect the institution of marriage over the individuals. When a spouse is abusive, destructive, indifferent, and deceitful towards - [What Does the Bible Say about Divorce?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-divorce/) - By Dean Whitfield I believe in the inspired inerrancy of Scripture in the original manuscripts and all that implies; which includes that (1) Scripture does not contradict itself (Luke 16:11), (2) Christ fulfilled the Law (Matt. 5:17), (3) our God is a god of logic, not confusion (I Cor. 14:33), and (4) the truths of - [Top Ten Stress Management Tips](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/top-ten-stress-management-tips/) - Relax. Relaxation techniques include breathing techniques, tensing and relaxing muscles, meditation, and visualization. Recognize what you are feeling and wanting. Recognize triggers and old patterns. Resolve problems. List options that are in your control. Take one step at a time. Allow imperfection and a growth process. Rethink. Identify the thoughts behind your emotion to distinguish - [Verbal Judo](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/verbal-judo/) - Photo by Thao Le Hoang on Unsplash I admire a friend of mine who is a fourth degree black belt. I noticed the rest of us would get upset at conflict so much easier than he would. I realized later that it was because he had confidence. He felt less of a need to defend himself or attack - [How Does Christian Counseling Work?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-does-christian-counseling-work/) - How Does Christian Counseling Work? - [How Does Marriage Counseling Work?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-does-marriage-counseling-work/) - How Does Marriage Counseling Work? - [Can't We All Just Get Along: Divorce Therapy and Mediation](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/cant-we-all-just-get-along-divorce-therapy-and-mediation/) - Alternatives to a Fight - [Perspectives on Anger Management](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/perspectives-on-anger-management/) - By Dan Blair, Marriage and Family Therapist Just like the quote "All roads lead to Rome," there are a number of ways to manage anger. While this article is not in-depth, it may give you some options you can take to anger management. Although it's a good reminder from Bessel van der Kolk, a leading - [Let Them Theory](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/let-them-theory/) - The book called let them theory has sold 1.2 million copies in its first month alone. It's a popular book by Mel Robbins. It's purported to give people inner freedom in their relationships. This is not a book review, but considers how the theory may apply to you. Let Them Theory is about prioritizing peace - [What To Expect From Your First Therapy Appointment](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/what-to-expect-from-your-first-therapy-appointment/) - By David Ensor, LSW Starting therapy for the first time can be frightening if you don’t know what to expect. Will your health insurance cover therapy? What will the therapist ask? How should you prepare? I’m here to help you understand a therapist's perspective and give you a few tips to get ready. In this - [What is Therapy? What Should You Expect?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/what-is-therapy-what-should-you-expect/) - By David Ensor, LSW Find out more about David Ensor Have you ever been to therapy? If not, it can be daunting. The first time I went to therapy, it felt awkward and uncomfortable. I had difficulty trusting this new person and was unsure what the process was going to be. As a child, this - [Stressed Out Parents; Stressed Out Kids](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/stressed-out-parents-stressed-out-kids/) - If you prefer, please listen to this recorded webinar and others. By Dan Blair Marriage Counselor and Family Therapist We cannot underestimate the amount of stress we are under, especially during a pandemic. We are seeing the breakdown of our healthcare system and the effects of racism. Anger and conflict are all around us. We - [Help! I Can't Sleep!](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/i-cant-sleep/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. How many of us have tossed and turned and have been aggravated by an inability to sleep? Looking at the clock only to realize another hour has passed can break the spirit of anyone. Most people need at least seven or eight hours of sleep, but - [Minute Mood: How 3 Kinds of Empathy Can Pay Off](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-3-kinds-of-empathy-can-pay-off/) - By Dan Blair, Marriage and Family Therapist Minute Mood is an app that I developed to help my wife and I communicate on a deeper level. We have demanding jobs, we had lots of kids, and the time it takes to communicate on a deeper level was just not available. We were too tired to - [Minute Mood Couples Journaling](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/minute-mood-co-journaling/) - Create a journal with a partner "I wish we were closer." "I wish I knew what she was thinking." "He should know what I want. It doesn't do any good if I have to ask for it." Researchers found marriages are strengthened through cognitive empathy, or perspective-taking - how accurately one partner understands the - [Support for Pastors at No Cost](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/support-for-pastors-at-no-cost/) - By Dan Blair, a Christian marriage counselor and family counselor. The burdens that pastors carry are many. Dr. Greg Smalley reports that 80 percent of pastors leave the ministry within five years of graduating seminary. He adds that 1500 pastors a month leave due to burnout or moral failure. Counselors studying the trend found that - [Mediating with Your "Soon-to-Be-Ex"](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/mediating-with-your-ex/) - What to Expect When Mediating a Divorce - [What to Expect When Divorcing](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/what-to-expect-when-divorcing/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Divorce can be devastating, from the immediate aftermath effects on finances, parenting, and social status. Understanding the aftermath, realignment and stabilization phases can help, though it still takes time to recover. The emotional process before, during and after divorce is similar to the effects of trauma. - [Why You Should Consider Seeing a Counselor During a Divorce](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/consider-seeing-counselor-divorce/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor and family counselor If it’s too late to save your marriage, it’s still not too late to save yourself. But you’re going to need help and divorce counseling might be a solution that serves you well. No two divorces are exactly alike. But what is true of almost every divorce - [How to Complain to God](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-to-complain-to-god/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor and family counselor Mark Vroegop in his book Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy acknowledged that sad situations sometimes don't get better. Problems don't always get solved. Conflict doesn't get fixed. Children die, couples divorce, and senseless tragedies occur both in our lives and in our world. He observes that we go - [Is Empathy Really Necessary?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/is-empathy-really-necessary/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor and family counselor Is empathy really necessary? It can be unnatural, even awkward. Maybe you don't feel you need it yourself. Here are some common questions about empathy. Why is empathy important in relationships? Research shows that empathy is foundational to a strong bond in relationships. Empathy can help you - [Adjusting to Grief and Trauma](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/adjusting-to-grief-and-trauma/) - Normal Reactions: shock emptiness nervousness fatigue anger denial guilt agitation restlessness hopelessness These typical reactions affect sleep, appetite, concentration, decision-making and memory. You may feel ill or like you just ran a marathon. You may want to be alone or not be alone. Flashbacks are likely. Recovery takes time: Alternate between releasing emotions, and refocusing - [Parenting Tips](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/parenting-tips/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor and family counselor Often when one thinks of discipline, you think of angry exchanges ending with both you and your child feeling frustrated and misunderstood. When people, especially kids, are upset, they lose ability to reason. Kids, and parents, also like the feeling when angry. It gives them a sense - [The Art of Communication](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/the-art-of-communication/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor and family counselor Communication is harder than many people think. Since the strength of a relationship is based on connection between people, communication is often underestimated as well. It is a skill that must be practiced over and over. Even when making casual conversation, there is opportunity to strengthen relationships - [FACE Depression and Anxiety](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/managing-emotions/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor and family counselor Do you find that you can't stop dwelling on problems, regrets, and aggravations? Over thinking can deplete the use of good chemicals in the brain and trigger the use of stress hormones, like adrenaline or cortisol. This makes it even more difficult to put a "brake" on - [Communication Cheat Sheet](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/cheat-sheet-to-resolve-an-issue/) - One of the most useful tools for communication is the adage "agree to disagree." Many do not find it okay to disagree so they resort to arguments. By contrast, if you can agree to disagree it eases empathy, invites insight, bolsters boundaries, and attains agreements for the future. Communication is "EASY" (just kidding, that is - [How I Changed as a Parent](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-i-changed-as-a-parent/) - To hear this interview and others, listen to the Successful Parenting Podcast by Jackie Rhew and Robin Choquette! YouTube Spotify Apple Google Drive Successful Parenting Podcast Interview: What has brought you to this work? I thought about that question and I realized that I have had children in my home with me as a parent - [Three Things To Know Before You Remarry with Kids](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/three-things-to-know-before-you-remarry-with-kids/) - By Dan Blair, marriage and family therapist The three top things I hear about from clients (and I wish I knew almost 20 years ago) all relate to stepfamily loyalty binds, losses, and limit setting. We all go into a new marriage with high expectations that this one will be better than the last one, - [Blending Families Myths](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/blending-families/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. The task of blending families is daunting. Adjustment to stepfamily is more stressful than adjustment to divorce. A stepfamily is not the same as a biological family. It can be one of the most difficult maneuvers, even for otherwise successful parents and productive members of society. - [Redemption Story: Blending Families](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/blendingfamilies/) - By Dan Blair Marriage Counselor and Family Therapist The challenges of remarriage and blending families after the wounds of divorce or the death of a spouse is likely to be more stressful than the loss of the first marriage. Many hungering for a second chance are yearning for intact family stability, but there are differences - [Shame and What to Do About It](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/shame-and-what-to-do-about-it/) - By Dan Blair, marriage counselor and family counselor I look back over my life and I think we can all say we have made major mistakes. We have weaknesses and flaws. I think about the major mistakes in my life and how it has impacted me. To talk about shame, I'd like to start with - [How to Tell Kids About Divorce](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-to-tell-kids-about-divorce/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Telling the kids can often be one of the toughest part of a divorce. The kid's dream of a "normal" life with mom and dad loving each other dies hard. There is much lost even in a "good divorce" so make sure divorce is unavoidable. Research - [How Do You Explain Teen Violence?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-do-you-explain-teen-violence/) - Photo by cottonbro studio By Dan Blair, marriage therapist and family counselor Should we just say, "It's complicated?" According to the CDC, homicide is a third leading cause of death among people ages 15 to 19 years old in the United States. This alarming fact underscores the importance of addressing teen violence. The most common - [Self-Worth or Selfish?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/self-worth-or-selfish/) - By Dan Blair, marriage therapist and family counselor Religion can give the message that anything about the "self" is sin or bad, or at least selfish. Psychology promotes the need to care for the self (not to the exclusion of others) and this can be deemed as self-esteem, self-love, or self-worth. A common way to - [Conflict Resolution](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/conflict-resolution/) - By Dan Blair, marriage therapist and family counselor It may take two to resolve conflict, but all each person can do, is control themselves instead of trying to change or control the other person. Have you noticed, trying to get the other person to agree with you in an argument often creates more resistance? Unresolved - [Keep Calm and Carry On?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/keep-calm-and-carry-on/) - Photo by Monstera By Dan Blair, marriage therapist and family counselor The first half of this article reveals the anatomy of stress, and how we can respond to it. The second half applies what we learned about stress to parenting our kids. Hopefully you shall understand ways to help you and your child recognize and - ["F" Words When Triggered](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/f-words-when-triggered/) - Triggers are strong emotions that overwhelm our ability to listen effectively and think clearly. They are essentially emotional memories that are partly from the past and partly from the present, and are difficult to unravel and separate. Here are the top ten "F" words to remember when triggered. Fight - when triggered we feel a - [Anger Management](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/angry-management/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. One person put it this way, “You know the feeling, the rush when you feel taller than a mountain and stronger than superman, every single muscle and nerve is on red alert, you tingle all over and you believe that you could take on the whole - [Selected Radio Interviews](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/radio-interviews-for-dan-blair/) - Creating fun in your marriage is so important because boredom in a relationship often does not end in divorce but is a highly-cited reason for affairs. Life is short, but better to love the one you are with and invest in your present relationship than find a new one with new problems down the - [Top Ten Benefits to Christianity](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/top-ten-benefits-to-christianity/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. While various human beliefs and interpretations of Christianity have played a part in creating havoc in personal and political realms, there are benefits to believing in a loving and personal God. Belief in God has persisted in spite of all the failings of followers. Benefits of - [Christian Mindfulness](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/christian-mindfulness/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. “More than 100 million American adults who describe themselves as Christian contend . . . they are still searching for clarity regarding their purpose in life (George Barna, Maximum Faith).” Is there a connection between awareness of God and self-awareness? As one form of awareness goes - [Visitation Refusal](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/visitation-refusal/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. "Do I have to go?" All parents hear this from their kids about not wanting to go somewhere from time to time. But during and after divorce, hearing this from your kids about spending time with the other parent causes concern for both parents. In conflictual - [Thoughts of Suicide](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/thoughts-of-suicide/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Thoughts of suicide need to be taken seriously. If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide call the crisis line at 988, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room or counseling center that has immediate availability. You can also Text CONNECT to - [INSIDE OUT Parenting](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/inside-out-parenting/) - Photo by Erik Witsoe By Dan Blair, marriage therapist and family counselor One of the premises of the movie "Inside Out" is that if you can manage your emotions you can manage your behavior. But my favorite phrase to describe parenting is: This did not go as planned. I know I'm not the only one - [A Mediation Model for Christians](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/a-mediation-model-for-christians/) - Jesus was fully immersed in the identity, experiences and perspective of both God and man as mediator between the two. So for mediation to be successful, each has to identify with the experience and perspective of the other, overcome strong emotional states, and consider all options to bridge the gap. “Each of you look not - [Follow Your Heart?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/follow-your-heart/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. The Bible says the heart is deceitful. Mental health practices, however, often encourages one to listen to the heart. The Bible also talks about how God works through the heart. When the Bible references phrases like "called to mind" or "remember", it uses Hebrew words focused on - [Gottman's Sound Relationship House](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/gottmans-sound-relationship-house/) - Depression, anxiety, and divorce are continuing to rise. The fallout on marriages and parenting is immense. It may be time to get back to core values of marriage and family. One question to ask yourself: "Is my home a place to get support and reduce stress?" One of the best resources for relational tools is - [I Can't Listen When Triggered](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/i-cant-listen-when-triggered/) - By Dan Blair Marriage Counselor and Family Therapist Welcome to the club. Triggers are strong emotions that overwhelm our ability to listen effectively and think clearly. They are essentially emotional memories that are partly from the past and partly from the present, and are difficult to unravel and separate. It is easy to think of - [Insiders and Outsiders](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/outsiders-and-insiders/) - By Dan Blair Marriage Counselor and Family Therapist Step-families are much tougher than I expected. Divorce rates are reported to be about double, and both parents and kids are affected in ways that I have never realized. One way to understand the challenge is to identify the perspective of two groups, and each family member - [Single and 50](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/single-and-50/) - Now more than ever long term marriages are ending after the kids are grown and there is still a lot of time left to live. The divorce rate for 50 and older has doubled in the last 25 years. For those 65 and older it has tripled since 1990, according to Pew Research. Single - [Where is That Checklist for ADHD?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/where-is-that-checklist-for-adhd/) - Kids with ADHD have powerful engines, but have difficulty putting on the brakes and shifting gears. There may be challenges with distractibility, impulsivity, hyperactivity and difficulty disengaging from enjoyable activities. While it is considered it a disability associated with genetic factors, it can change over the course of time as kids mature or are able - [ADHD Resources for Teachers](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/adhd-resources-for-teachers/) - By Dan Blair Marriage Counselor and Family Therapist Managing a classroom takes a special set of skills. I have the utmost respect for teachers. Learning how to direct attention is challenging, especially for those bright and personable kids with ADHD, and those that fly under the radar that have ADHD. Limiting distractions is like providing - [How to Move on After Divorce](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-to-move-on-after-divorce/) - How to Move on After Divorce - [What Does Dissociation Feel Like?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/dissociation-feel-like/) - What Does Dissociation Feel Like? - [Love on the Rocks](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/love-on-the-rocks/) - Signs Your Marriage Is Over - [Is My Marriage Over?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/is-my-marriage-over/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Statistics show that more and more Baby Boomers in their 50s and 60s are divorcing. Why? The Baby Boomer generation is among the first to see divorce as a more acceptable option, and more enter this age group already divorced. Other common reasons for divorce among - [What is Attachment?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/what-is-attachment/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Attachment is a kind of bond that endures over time. It is primarily developed the first to third year of life, but that is not the only chance to develop attachment. Attachment figures are those who meet needs of the child especially in times of distress. - [Parents, Attachment, and Kids](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/parents-attachment-and-kids/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. To say that a parent's attachment to his or her kids is strong may be a negative statement. Attachment is described as secure and insecure, so it is possible to have a strong attachment that is insecure. Insecure attachment descriptors reflect parental styles mentioned in the - [Coping with the Emotions of Divorce](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/coping-with-the-emotions-of-divorce/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. While there is plenty to do to deal with unavoidable divorce, the emotions are usually avoided with thoughts of anger. Take some time each day to make room for the emotional side underneath the thoughts. Due to the transient nature of thoughts and emotions, the goal - [How Can Christians Stay Married](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-can-christians-stay-married/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. At times people think about how problems would be solved if they were married to someone else. Some problems may be solved this way, but it also is true that we carry our response to problems from relationship to relationship. John Gottman, a leading marital researcher, gives this example: - [Making Marriage Work](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/making-marriage-work/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. As a marriage and family therapist I have learned techniques to help marriages and family relationships work. The one that works best by far is the unconditional love of Christ. How that works out in the marriage is my next question. One thing I’ve noticed is that - [Does This Count as Cheating?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/does-this-count-as-cheating/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. What if your wife befriended someone unknown to you on Facebook? What about your husband’s phone always being locked? Is there a problem if your spouse goes out for lunches with a co-worker? Or in general, is a little flirting is okay? Can the use of - [How to Stay Married](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-to-stay-married/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. At times people think about how problems would be solved if they were married to someone else. Some problems may be solved this way, but it also is true that we carry our response to problems from relationship to relationship. John Gottman, a leading marital researcher, gives this example: - [Feeling Empty in Marriage](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/feeling-empty-in-marriage/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. As a marriage and family therapist I have learned techniques to help marriages and family relationships work. The one that works best by far is the use of unconditional love. How that works out in the marriage is my next question. One thing I've noticed is - [Why Do People Divorce and Can I Stop Divorce?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/stop-divorce/) - By Dan Blair Marriage Counselor and Family Therapist Why do people divorce and can you stop divorce? Aside from abuse, affairs, or addictions, the disintegration of relationships can often be understood in terms of attachment research, which studies both insecure and secure attachment patterns. Insecure attachment patterns develop when painful relational experiences cause both withdrawing - [The Twelve Steps for Christians](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/the-twelve-steps-for-christians/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Twelve Steps work for Christians and Non-Christians. STEP ONE is about recognizing our brokenness. We admitted we were powerless over the effects of our separation from God – that our lives had become unmanageable. "I realize that I don’t have what it takes. I can will it, - [Twelve Steps to Recover from Addiction](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/twelve-steps-to-recover-from-addiction/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Christian Version STEP ONE is about recognizing our brokenness. We admitted we were powerless – that our lives had become unmanageable. What were you taught about the substance or behavior in question by your family? List current problems. List all the enticements of the substance or - [Is Divorce Mediation Worth It?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/is-divorce-mediation-worth-it/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Two of the main goals for divorce mediation in unavoidable divorce are to save money and time in a long process, and reduce antagonism and stress that can come from an adversarial process. Two well-attested facts are: 1. Kids are most damaged by the fighting between the - [The Rich Young Ruler](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/the-rich-young-ruler/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Maybe you have heard the story of the rich young ruler who asked Jesus what does he have to do to get to heaven. Jesus did not tell him to give ten percent; he told him to give away his belongings and follow him. The rich - [Divorce Mediation FAQ About the Children](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/divorce-mediation-faq-about-the-children/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Here are some questions that will have to be answered not by the mediator, but by the parents in the best interest of their children: 1. What is in the best interest of the child when determining custody? 2. Will child care be needed? 3. What religion - [The Heart in the Bible](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/the-heart-in-the-bible/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. God works through the heart (Jeremiah 31:33). It is out of the heart that we connect with God (Romans 10:10). We are told not to lose heart (Galatians 6:9). What does the heart represent in the Bible? The definition of the heart in the Bible includes the conjunction - [Divorce Mediation FAQ About Finances](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/divorce-mediation-faq-about-finances/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Here are some questions that need to be answered in the best financial interest of the family: 1. Have I consulted with an attorney and/or a tax accountant specializing in divorce so I understand my best options when filing for taxes? 2. Who will claim the - [Protecting Children in Divorce](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/protecting-children-in-divorce/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. You can make a difference when it comes to insulating your children from the harmful effects of unavoidable divorce. Children of divorce are most affected by ongoing conflict, absent parents, and financial shifts in lifestyle. Moreover, how the child responds to the divorce is modeled by - [Are Emotions Commanded?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/are-emotions-commanded/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. There are many commands to have or not have particular emotions in the Bible in a given context. Many Christians focus on what they do or not do, and leave the emotional side as out of their control. However, emotions reflect beliefs and values, and thus - [Ex Communication](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/ex-communication/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. To resolve issues with an "ex" in an unavoidable divorce, present and future co-parents may have to be at the point where they are tired of having issues and spending money for going to court. To resolve issues co-parents have to let go of total control, which - [Emotions Versus Actions](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/emotions-versus-actions/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Many present a split between emotions and actions. In this way we tell ourselves that we are not able to change our feelings but that is acceptable as long as we do not act on them. Examples would be fear, anger, or desire. So acting right - [Grace Over Judgment](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/grace-over-judgment/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. When you have been wronged it can be hard to consider mercy, but when you are the one who has done wrong, mercy can be what saves you. Certainly looking at truth about yourself can be unacceptable without grace. The Bible is essentially stories of redemption, - [Is Divorce a Sin?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/is-divorce-a-sin/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Churches proclaim divorce to be a sin with certain exceptions. These exceptions depend on which church you attend. Some believe divorce is a sin unless there is sexual infidelity, but what about abuse or neglect of a spouse? Most would say that sexual infidelity may warrant - [How One Parent Undermines the Other Parent](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-one-parent-undermines-the-other-parent/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Much of the time one parent does not realize what they are doing. The effect on the kids is unnoticed. It is usually experienced by the child as stress, tension, anxiety, guilt and depression. Kids may act out or hide it. Parents usually justify it. What - [Arresting Anxiety](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/arresting-anxiety/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10a). The same emotion can either be positive or negative in the Bible. The Bible may command an emotion in one place and prohibit it in another depending on the context. For example, "In your anger do - [Reunification Therapy with Estranged and Alienated Parents](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/reunification-therapy-with-estranged-and-alienated-parents/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Aside from abuse, children generally benefit from a relationship with both mom and dad. Even if there are negative aspects of a parent, children benefit from interacting with one who "brought them into this world," and can learn crucial coping skills and expand personal styles of - [Working with Counselors and Court](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/working-with-counselors-and-court/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Working with the Court in managing chaotic situations involving children and counseling is challenging and requires an additional set of skills. This article should help to evaluate court-involved counseling. It is important to know how counseling will affect the legal process and how the legal process - [Using Grace to Change](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/using-grace-to-change/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. What if instead of judging yourself, you fully accepted yourself as does God? The Christian concept of grace is based on the finished work of Jesus as a completely effective mediator between God and man. Depression, anxiety, and addictions all depend on a negative cycle and sense - [Success with Supervised Visitation](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/success-with-supervised-visitation/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Supervised visitation is centered on maintaining or building a relationship between child and parent. If both parents provide a clear show of support for the importance of a relationship with both parents, the positive effects on the kids over time is powerful. It says that the - [No Pain, No Gain?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/no-pain-no-gain/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. The anguish we encounter in life is immeasurable at times. It's big. Too big. What do you do with anger and the impulse to express it without a satisfying outcome? What do you do with fear/shame that reveals our vulnerability at its core and that our - [Disrupted Attachment](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/disrupted-attachment/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Consider how these trauma and attachment experts describe the effects of disrupted attachment between parents and infants or young children: In order to co-create a secure attachment, the infant seeks proximity to the primary caregiver, who must be subjectively perceived as predictable, consistent, and emotionally available. - [Family Restructuring Therapy for Co-Parenting](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/family-restructuring-therapy-for-co-parenting/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Family Restructuring Therapy is based on the work by Dr. Stephen Carter and is an active and directive process used to address ongoing conflict between co-parents that seriously affect the children. It provides new ways to co-parent, and can be used to develop and refine parenting - [Local Parents Get Creative to Cure Cabin Fever](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/local-parents-get-creative-to-cure-cabin-fever/) - Local Parents Get Creative to Cure Cabin Fever By CHELSEA McDOUGALL - cmcdougall@shawmedia.com http://www.nwherald.com/2014/01/15/local-parents-get-creative-to-cure-cabin-fever/ahmo9q3/ Betsy and Jerrad Rickard have four children under 10 years old. Let that sink in for a second. Four children. Under 10. Betsy, a former educator who stays home with the children, knows better than anyone that the winter doldrums can - [Premarital Counseling](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/premarital-counseling/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Premarital counseling cannot prevent a divorce, but may better equip one to better manage the challenges associated with one of the greatest endeavors of all: marriage. Skill-based premarital courses are reported to lower divorce rates by 45 percent. Many factors can point to divorce, although these - [Recognizing Mental Illness](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/recognizing-mental-illness/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Just as recognizing when to go to the doctor or emergency room is essential, so is being able to recognize mental illness. In addition to being able to recognize when illness may be affecting a loved one, I think of “first responders,” those who run toward - [Common Childhood Diagnoses](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/common-childhood-diagnoses/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Children with a disorder are often diagnosed with one of the following: Autism Autism is often first noticed by the parents when their baby does not respond to their affections. Autism is defined by impairments in social interaction and communication, and by repetitive behavior. Characteristics include - [Attacks by Panic](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/attacks-by-panic/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Suddenly your heart starts beating out of your chest and you can’t catch your breath. You feel tingling sensations creeping up your arms and at the same time you realize you are light-headed. You’re thinking “Something bad is happening,” and you feel trapped. This is what - [Should I Stay or Should I Go Now?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/should-i-stay-or-should-i-go-now/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Darling, you gotta let me know Should I stay or should I go? If you say that you are mine I'll be there till the end of time So you gotta let me know Should I stay or should I go? This classic song from the - [How to Deal With Divorce Without Totally Failing at Work](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/divorce-stress/) - How to Deal With Divorce Without Totally Failing at Work - [What to Expect When Blending a Family](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/what-to-expect-when-blending-a-family/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. As much as one can wish, starting over in a blended marriages has expectations are not the same, and many times the opposite of what one can expect in the biological family. The difference is attributed to "insiders" and "outsiders" in the step-family. This normal and - [Promoting Marriage](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/promoting-marriage/) - By Sheri Mueller, licensed professional counselor, and Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Every 13 seconds, there is one divorce in America. There are 9 divorces in the time it takes for a couple to recite their wedding vows. 1,385 divorces happen during the average wedding reception. According to Dr. Jennifer Glass, one of - [What to Ask Before You Marry](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/what-to-ask-before-you-marry/) - How well can you answer these questions with a long-term view? General What are the five most important things to you in a marriage? I love you because . . . (three reasons). I want to marry you because . . . (three specific reasons, not “I love you”). We’re a good match because . - [The Effects of Child Abuse](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/child-abuse/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. "Childhood abuse isn't something you 'get over.' It is an evil that we must acknowledge and confront if we aim to do anything about the unchecked violence in this country" (Martin Teicher, MD, PhD, Scientific American). Abuse occurs whenever anyone dominates, exploits or injures another. Abuse can - [What Is Parenting Coordination?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/what-is-parenting-coordination/) - Parenting coordination is a future trend and a viable option to custody battles. When parents are not able come to an agreement regarding their children a parent coordinator will mediate the issue. If parents are still not able to come to an agreement a parent coordinator gathers information to make a decision in the child's - [Church Conflicts](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/church-conflicts/) - Research by the Barna Group uncovered two surprising facts: (1) the majority of the nation's non-churched are comprised of people, not who say they are not Christians, but who say they are, and (2) about 4 out of 10 of these stopped attending due to a “painful” or “negative” ordeal. Barna projected that at the - [Attachment Patterns and God](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/attachment-patterns-and-god/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. To say that a parent's attachment to his or her kids is strong may be a negative statement. Attachment is described as secure and insecure, so it is possible to have a strong attachment that is insecure. Insecure attachment descriptors reflect parental styles mentioned in the - [Marriage, Divorce and Living Together](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/marriage-divorce-and-living-together/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. Over time divorce rates and marriage rates have gradually moved closer. More are divorcing and less are marrying. If marriage interferes with personal happiness, divorce seems to be more of an option. Spouses explore whether or not they can be happy in the marriage, and if - [Head-on Approach to Handling Stress](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/head-on-approach-to-handling-stress/) - Stress is a major contributor to physical and mental health issues. Knowing how to handle it is rarely taught and involves a plan to offset life's demands. Head-on Approach to Handling Stress When life delivers stress, how we cope is key to health By HILARY GOWINS - editorial@nwherald.com http://www.nwherald.com/2012/01/19/head-on-approach-to-handling-stress/a22zqa0/ Oversleeping. Missing an appointment. Traffic - [Effects of 'Sexting' Can Be Costly](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/effects-of-sexting-can-be-costly/) - Sexting is more common that one may think. Teens who sext are motivated by reward but minimize the chance of serious consequences. Effects of 'Sexting' Can Be Costly By HILARY GOWINS - hgowins@nwherald.com http://www.nwherald.com/2011/04/18/effects-of-sexting-can-be-costly/ak8b42g/ Advancements in smart phones made it all too easy to send naked photographs and racy messages with the click of - [Losing your Spouse](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/losing-your-spouse/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. "Death is like an assault on our pysche. It reminds of mortality and helplessness. It speaks of the brief time between birth and sleep. It steals the life out of you; ironically you long for rest and not life, after it appears. Death stirs faith and - [How to Overcome the Fear of Commitment](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/how-to-overcome-the-fear-of-commitment/) - 1. Sometimes yesterday’s lessons teach us to keep living in fear rather than evaluating each day or each person anew. Do a reality check. Yesterday’s lessons sometimes teach us wise and useful understanding of how to tackle what is on our plate today. You know, like, that burner I placed my hand on…….THAT HURT! Don’t - [Healing after an Affair](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/healing-after-an-affair/) - Tip 1: Take time for yourself Healing from an affair can take a toll on you mentally, physically and spiritually. I recommend taking time to yourself to get back in touch with being grounded in your self. Take time for yourself to do things that energize and fill you up energetically. The energy drain that - [First Year Can Be Tough Test for Marriages](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/first-year-can-be-tough-test-for-marriages/) - The first year of marriage involves more in terms of adjustment than any other year. Blending two lives is like blending two different cultures. First Year Can Be Tough Test for Marriages By CHELSEA McDOUGALL - cmcdougall@shawmedia.com http://www.nwherald.com/2013/02/13/first-year-can-be-tough-test-for-marriages/as6e9ea/ After a fairy-tale wedding and quick honeymoon, Richmond couple Liz and Joe Bappert returned home to - [50 Tips to Prevent Infidelity](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/50-tips-to-prevent-infidelity/) - Tip 1: Rule Number One: You are Playing on the Same Team! When you hit a rough spot in your relationship you may forget that you and your partner are playing on the same team – the “Smith” or “Jones” team! Remind yourself daily: The intention is not perfection but to hone your skills to - [Money and Marriage](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/money-and-marriage/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. When looking for marital partners, men and women look first for common family goals, financial compatibility, and then compatibility in career choices, sexuality, and religion. Often opposites attract, and financial personalities range from savers motivated by security and spenders motivated by self-determination. Without blaming the other - [Making Love Last](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/making-love-last/) - By Dan Blair, a marriage counselor and family counselor. A practical way to make love last is to devote at least 15 minutes a day to the relationship and two or three hours on the weekend by: Time: having fun again. Touch: simple affection. Talk: be nice to each other, ask for what you want. - [Everything You Need to Know About Divorce Mediation](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-divorce-mediation/) - Everything You Need to Know About Divorce Mediation ## Pages - [Home](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/) - PROTECT YOUR MARRIAGEBlair Counseling and Mediation works to provide tools that can be used to save relationships.LEARN MORE PROTECT YOUR CHILDREN Kids are deeply affected by adult or child depression, anxiety, behavior problems, conflict, and divorce.LEARN MORE REBUILD RELATIONSHIPSEven if a marriage ends, family does not. It is time to strengthen parenting, co-parenting and spiritual - [About](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/about-us/) - MEET THE BLAIR COUNSELING TEAM Blair Counseling and Mediation is discretely located in a professional building and is handicapped accessible in both Crystal Lake and Huntley. There is a private waiting room for clients and the office setting is warm, comfortable, and inviting. Our FANTASTIC TEAM Blair Counseling and Mediation Offers Counseling through Experienced Clinicians - [Christian](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/counseling-services/christian/) - Christian Disappointment in God? How would you answer these questions: When I am struggling, I think God __________. When I am suffering, God responds by __________. When I fail, God feels __________ toward me. When I feel angry or vindictive, God __________. Faith-Based Counseling is Available Blair Counseling offers Biblically-based counseling as an option to - [Marriage](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/counseling-services/marriage/) - Marriage Do I Need Marriage Counseling? Do you find yourself irritable? Do you raise your voice? Do you find yourself in frequent arguments? Is it easy to criticize or use sarcasm? Do you give others the “silent treatment?” Are you self-critical? Do you feel unappreciated or do you find it difficult to stop dwelling on - [Addictions](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/counseling-services/addictions/) - Addictions Do I Have an Addiction? Looking back over the time you have engaged in a repeated behavior (i. e. gambling or sex) or used a particular substance (alcohol, legal or illegal substances) do you notice that you have increased the use of the behavior or substance? Do you feel bad emotionally or physically when - [Child Behavior](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/counseling-services/child-behavior/) - Parenting Is My Child Out of Control? Does your child make careless mistakes? Does your child not finish tasks? Is your child able to listen for extended periods? Does your child resist organization or lose things easily? Does your child find it unpleasant to do thinking tasks for extended periods? Does your child get easily - [Anxiety](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/counseling-services/anxiety/) - Anxiety Do I Have an Anxiety Disorder? Do you find difficulty in controlling worry? Do you have aches or pains? Do you feel restless and/or tired? Is it hard to concentrate or complete daily tasks? Are you irritable? Do you have sleep disruption, or is it difficult to fall asleep? Do you have distinct episodes - [Anger](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/counseling-services/anger-counseling/) - Anger Do I Have an Anger Problem? Do you find yourself irritable? Do you raise your voice? Do you find yourself in frequent arguments? Is it easy to criticize or use sarcasm? Do you give others the “silent treatment?” Are you self-critical? Do you feel unappreciated or do you find it difficult to stop dwelling - [Depression](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/counseling-services/depression-in-crystal-lake/) - Depression Am I Depressed? Are you feeling down on most days? Do you have aches or pains? Do you find it difficult to stop dwelling on situations? Are you noticing irritability? Have you lost interest in everyday activities? Have you gained or lost more than 15% of your body weight? Do you have difficulty falling - [Divorce](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/divorce/) - Divorce There comes a point in which energy for a marriage can be lost, maybe after years of conflict or withdrawal in the relationship. Or maybe feelings change after a betrayal. Divorce becomes a solution to a problem. Will a divorce really solve it? Could staying in the marriage be a possibility? If there is interest in - [Contact](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/contact-us/) - You are welcome to leave a message, and we will be happy to get back to you. Or, call us at (815) 276-3947 Our locations 27 Grant StreetCrystal Lake, IL 60014 12555 Farm Hill RdHuntley, IL 60142 Contact Us Contact Us We would like to hear from you. Please send us a message by filling - [Mediation](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/mediation/) - Mediation Why use Blair Counseling and Mediation? Mediation is an effective tool to resolve marriage, family and personal disputes that need to be resolved. Any dispute can be mediated if participants are willing. Divorce is one occasion where mediation can save time and money, allowing you to talk directly with another party to resolve issues. Unavoidable - [Search Results](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/search_gcse/) - Search Results - [Policy](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/privacy-policy/) - Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Terms Of Use By using this site, you signify that you agree with and accept all terms, conditions in this Disclaimer for this site accessed through the domain addresses www.blaircounsel.wpengine.com and www.blaircounseling.com, or social media sites and/or any other direct or third party links. If you do not agree, - [Counseling](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/counseling-services/) - Counseling A representative would be happy to talk with you without charge to see if Blair Counseling would be a good fit for you. Simply click on the area most closely related to your concern and complete the contact information at the end of the survey. You may also call us at 815-276-3947 or fill - [Blog](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/blog/) - [Blog Classic](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/blog/blog-classic/) - Load More ## FAQ - [What happens after the mediation?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/what-happens-after-the-mediation/) - After mediation is completed, the Memorandum of Understanding can be sent to your attorney for review. An attorney will prepare the final document, which is called a Separation Agreement, Settlement Agreement, or some variation of this legal document, for filing in court. Depending on your preference and situation, either you or the attorney may file - [What if I don't like mediation?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/what-if-i-dont-like-mediation/) - Unless you have been ordered to mediation by the court, your attendance is voluntary. Whether or not the court has ordered you to attend mediation, you are never under an obligation to come to an agreement. Agreement is always voluntary. You may end mediation at any time or the mediator may end mediation if he - [What information must I disclose to my spouse or partner and to the mediator?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/what-information-must-i-disclose-to-my-spouse-or-partner-and-to-the-mediator/) - All financial information must be disclosed as part of the mediation process. This information is required by the courts and is important for informed decision making. The mediator will work with you to determine your income, expenses, assets, liabilities, retirement funds and other financial information that is required. Should information be withheld during the mediation - [Who is present at the mediation session?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/who-is-present-at-the-mediation-session/) - You and your spouse or partner will both be present at the mediation session. The mediator will often choose to speak with each of you privately and confidentially at least once during the mediation process and sometimes more often. On occasion, people choose to include their attorneys in the mediation sessions, or the mediator may - [Is mediation appropriate for me?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/is-mediation-appropriate-for-me/) - All parties to a dispute must be willing to participate and capable of informed decision-making. All parties must provide full disclosure of information. Each party must be comfortable disagreeing with another party in the same room and not fear retaliation. Neither party must be subject to domestic violence or threats. - [How much does mediation cost?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/how-much-does-mediation-cost/) - Your mediation costs will be based on an hourly fee of $180 that is split between each party. This fee will be charged for all mediation sessions and services, including time spent by the mediator in drafting documents. The cost of mediation is generally less than if you each hired lawyers to represent you in - [How often will we meet with the mediator?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/how-often-will-we-meet-with-the-mediator/) - At the initial mediation session, you will begin to identify the issues that need to be decided in your particular situation. What these issues are, how urgent the decisions are, how quickly you are able to gather the required information, and how fast you wish to proceed will determine the schedule you set to meet - [How long are the sessions?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/how-long-are-the-sessions/) - Generally, mediation sessions are scheduled to last from one and a half to two hours, depending on the couple’s needs and available time. Some couples prefer longer sessions while others find that shorter sessions are more productive. In certain circumstances, half or full day sessions may occur. - [How long will mediation take for a divorce?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/how-long-will-mediation-take-for-a-divorce/) - Because each separation and divorce is different, it is hard to predict exactly how long your mediation will last. In general, a couple who must make decisions about both parenting and financial issues may meet with a mediator for three to eight sessions. This varies depending on how complex the issues are how well the - [Is a mediated agreement binding?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/is-a-mediated-agreement-binding/) - If you are involved in a divorce or another family issue that is filed in court, any agreement you reach will be filed with the court. You should speak with your lawyer about how this works and what your options are. The court generally reviews the agreement to assure that it conforms to the standards - [Will I need a lawyer in order to use mediation?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/will-i-need-a-lawyer-in-order-to-use-mediation/) - Consulting with an attorney at some point during the mediation process to make sure you fully understand your legal rights is highly recommended. However, by using mediation, it is likely that you will use fewer legal services and that those you use will be different than if you did not use mediation. Unlike a mediator, - [If I use mediation, will I need to go to court to get divorced?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/if-i-use-mediation-will-i-need-to-go-to-court-to-get-divorced/) - If you are divorcing, you will have to file for divorce in court whether or not you use mediation. However, if you are able to reach a mutually agreeable resolution to all of the property, financial, custody, parenting and other issues that you must resolve, and the court accepts your settlement, it is likely that - [What training does someone need to become a mediator?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/what-training-does-someone-need-to-become-a-mediator/) - Most divorce and family mediators have completed a forty-hour divorce and family mediation training course and pursue advanced continuing education. Mediators should have advanced degrees in law, psychology, or other areas relevant to working with families. - [What is the process of mediation?](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/faq/what-is-the-process-of-mediation/) - Blair Counseling and Mediation can mediate all or part of the following process: The initial contact includes a call from one person for information, speaking with the other person involved, and scheduling a meeting. Session one includes one separate meeting for an orientation to mediation process, a review of issues to be addressed in mediation, ## Employees - [Casey Sonnefeldt](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/casey-sonnefeldt/) - I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose focus is working with children and families. I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh and my Master of Social Work from the University of Kentucky. I am a registered behavior technician and have two years of experience working one on one - [Helenn McManaman](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/dr-helenn-mcmanaman/) - biography My focus is to help clients overcome life challenges by helping them identify their strengths and resources when overcoming stressful life events. I support clients by increasing their level of self-awareness, gain insight into self-defeating patterns, and work toward making themselves feel confident, calm and powerful. By providing a warm and safe environment, I - [Sheri Mueller](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/sheri-mueller/) - biography Sheri’s experience for more than 20 years has been walking beside individuals, couples, and families toward building healthier relationships. Oftentimes, life transitions can be difficult and we find ourselves in a rough chapter. If you’re looking for a counselor who passionately cares and wishes to connect with you in your commitment to change, growth, - [Jennifer Morano](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/jennifer-morano/) - Jennifer is experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Providing a space that is safe, nurturing, and accepting is her priority. When life feels overwhelming and complicated, reaching out for help can feel daunting and scary. With a focus on strengths and solutions, and using compassion, empathy, and humor, Jennifer provides treatment that - [Amy While](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/amy-while/) - To be heard, understood, believed, and accepted, while setting goals and working together to reach those goals. That is what therapy is to me and what I strive to provide for my clients. Therapy is a place to be real, to explore all of life’s struggles as well as to celebrate your successes as we - [Carolyn Sanders](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/carolyn-sanders-msw/) - Carolyn Sanders is a Master's level clinician whose focus is providing compassionate and effective care to her clients. She believes that everyone has the capacity for growth and change and strives to help her clients discover their own inner strength and resilience. After completing her undergraduate degree in psychology at Chicago State University, she went - [Melissa Pazen](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/melissa-pazen/) - I provide adult individuals and couples with collaborative counseling and coaching. If you are troubled by depression, anxiety, codependency, alcoholism/substance abuse or grief I can help make sense of what you feel and find your authentic self. My approach to therapy is evidence-based and holistic. I create a calm, relaxed, confidential environment that allows clients to - [Lindy Lange](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/lindy-lange/) - Lindy has 17 years of experience working in the community, as a mental health therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She believes each person and situation is unique, and she creates a personalized treatment plan for each client(s). She believes that life can be complicated, and we all need a little help during times - [Diana Carter](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/diana-carter/) - What are the elements of your preferred future? I want to help you create it! I see the best in people. The more positive our dialogue is with ourselves, the more positive our dialogue is with others. My style is eclectic and strength based. My experience includes individual, marital and family counseling for everybody age - [Lindsey Patrick](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/lindsey-patrick/) - All relationships have chaotic or lonely times where you may feel incapable of approaching each other. Couples need a place to turn when they don’t know what to do or have no support system. Lindsey helps couples stuck in conflict gridlock begin to reengage with each other. She specializes in working with couples who experience: - [Workflow Wizards](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/workflow-wizards/) - [Maya McGregor](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/maya-mcgregor/) - I have been in the mental health field for many years working with a variety of populations. I have experience working with domestic violence survivors, sexual assault survivors, children and families in foster care, crisis work and suicide prevention. I love working with a variety of people at any age (5-90+) and I've worked with individuals, families, - [Dan Blair](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/dan-blair/) - biography Dan has worked 30 years in social service settings. Dan is experienced as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and is a trained, court-approved divorce mediator, Nationally Certified Parenting Coordinator, and a Certified Anger Management Specialist. He is a member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, - [David Ensor](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/david-ensor/) - There are times when you need a sympathetic ear. David Ensor has worked with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and neurodiversity. His years of volunteer work with those dealing with substance use has given him a deeper understanding of what people need when hitting rock bottom. David Ensor has received his BSW and MSW from - [Michael Birch](https://blaircounselingandmediation.com/team/michael-birch/) - Michael Birch M.A., IMAC, LPC is a therapist who is committed to helping clients navigate life’s difficulties. Mike believes honesty and integrity to be essential qualities; enabling individuals to assess their lives and make room for change. 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