What actually defines a mediation style?
- Huub Liefhebber
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
Is it what the mediator does—or where control sits in the conversation?
Mediation styles are shaped by how a mediator works with both the process and the content of a conversation. Depending on that approach, parties may retain more or less control themselves—or consciously choose to entrust aspects of the process or content to the mediator.
In this series, we make these differences visible. We begin by contrasting two ways of working with the process: a facilitative approach, where the mediator supports the structure of the conversation, and a more directive approach, where the mediator actively steers it.
We then turn to the content. First, we show a facilitative stance, where the mediator helps parties explore their own perspectives and interests. This is followed by a more proactive or evaluative approach, where the mediator engages more directly with the substance—offering direction
Two key dimensions
The different mediation styles can be understood along two key dimensions: the mediator’s role in guiding the process, and their level of engagement with the content.
Quadrants explained
A — GUIDING: Facilitative process / Non-evaluative contentThe mediator supports both the structure of the process and the exploration, leaving control largely with the parties.
B — STRUCTURING: Directive process / Non-evaluative contentThe mediator actively shapes the process, while leaving the content fully with the parties.
C — TESTING: Facilitative process / Evaluative contentThe mediator supports the process, while engaging more actively with the content.
D — DIRECTING: Directive & EvaluativeThe mediator both steers the process and engages directly with the content, while decision-making remains with the parties.
What do we mean by process and content?
Process e.g., time management, whether to caucus, written submissions, opening presentations:the mediator’s approach can be more directive or facilitative.
Content (outcome/substance) e.g., refraining from expressing views, reality-testing, or making a mediator’s proposal:the mediator’s approach can be more facilitative or evaluative.
Video demonstrations:
In the videos below, we bring these quadrants to life and show how different approaches play out in practice.
Video 1 — Process (Guiding vs Structuring)
How does the mediator shape the process?In this video, we contrast Guiding (facilitative) with Structuring (directive) and show how different choices influence the flow of the conversation.
Notice how each shift changes both control and direction in the conversation.
Video 2 — Content (Guiding vs Testing vs Directing)
How does the mediator engage with the content?In this video, we move from Guiding (non-evaluative) to Testing and Directing, showing how increasing engagement with the substance influences the conversation.
Notice how each shift changes both control and direction in the conversation.
These videos were produced by The Academy of Legal Mediation and Eva Knipschld of Reuling Schutte. Many thanks to LastMinute Producties, Christiaan Sharobim, and Silvain Hooglander for their excellent production work . As well as to Charlotte Eijsbouts and Tim Ligtvoet for their valuable contribution as parties. And a huge thank you to all for the pleasant collaboration.
Learning different styles?
Want to learn how to apply different styles—and discover which approach best fits you as a mediator and your parties? In the mediator training at the Academy of Legal Mediation, we explore this fascinating and essential theme in depth.
We offer both Dutch language and English-Language trainings, all accredited by the International Mediation Institute (IMI) and the Dutch Mediators Federation (MfN). The MfN Audit Committee has rated our academic level training as “excellent” on
content & programme, and on faculty.
Want to learn more: www.academylegalmediation.nl
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