Balakhane Mediation Takes Part in APFM’s Mediator’s Search For Meaning 2.0 – The Family Mediators Heart

Leyla recently took part in an insightful three-part Academy of Professional Family Mediators (APFM) Town Hall exploration of the family mediator’s inner self, hosted by Michael Aurit. The conversation focused on the panel’s beliefs about foundational mediation issues, and the principles that inspire their work in a post-pandemic world.

Emotions in Mediation

One of the key takeaways from the panel was the role of emotions in divorce. Mediators with self-awareness are more equipped to understand the emotions of others. A mediator’s role is more than just reaching an agreement, it’s about helping spouses find a lasting resolution. More times than not, this involves giving all parties a chance to feel heard and validated, so that emotional needs are met. Compassion and empathy are vital to having an impactful resolve. . When asked about the importance of these qualities, Leyla expressed some concern when there is a lack of compassion and empathy in the mediation process.:She even stated that, “The parties could walk out with two different resolutions if they are working with two different mediators – not only different outcomes, but different attitudes about what went on in the mediation.”

The importance of mindfulness in divorce mediation

Leyla’s discussion on mindfulness in mediation was perhaps the most enlightening. Practicing mindfulness in mediation means being fully present from moment to moment. Thisself-awareness and emotional intelligence can help with understanding emotions… Being mindful allows you to better guide others who are going through similar emotions.Leyla admitted that, while there are plenty of mediators out there who can reach a settlement without practicing mindfulness, being mindful as a mediator does give one an advantage. She says that mindfulness boosts the impact and effectiveness of the whole mediation process, allowing clients to “speak their truth on a deeper and a more authentic level.”

There are lots of free resources available for those who want to learn more about mindfulness. Leyla sees unlimited opportunities to practice mindfulness every day, whether undertaking mediation work or in her leisure time. Leyla closed the session with the following note, “Practicing mediation is a transformative process and opportunity for growth. The opportunity for growth is endless – and the more you practice mediation, the more you find out about the process, learn about human nature and learn about yourself.”

More information

Balakhane Mediation is owned and operated by Leyla Balakhane, who is an experienced facilitator, consultant, trainer, and divorce mediator in Los Angeles specializing in family law mediation.

To find out more about Leyla and her company, Balakhane Mediation, you can head over the website at http://balakhanemediation.com/. If you have any inquiries, you can call (424) 235 4173 or email [email protected].

Sue Gramacy

October 25, 2022.

I recommend Leyla Balakhane for resolving family disputes. She listens carefully, appreciates the emotions and needs that underline each conversation . She is genuinely concerned with the well being of all parties involved. She is very effective. What’s great is she always focuses on the best interest of the children. I have worked with Leyla for over 10 years and have watched her work her magic with families. Sue Gramacy

Stacey Lisk

October 14, 2022.

Leyla Balakhane was one of the supervising mediators that worked with us at Edmund D Edelman Children’s Court. Given that she was one of the top mediators working on unlawful detainer cases, she was referred by a judge who found her to be incredibly gifted in what she does and felt that she would be a great asset in working with families. Leyla has a natural ability to connect with the families and helping them reach agreements that is far above whats required. Given that she was very interested in growing in her practice, she was able to help create a more in-depth and detailed parenting checklist which led to a higher success rate in or mediations at the Children’s Court. Because of Leyla many families have more profound and insightful agreements. I would add supervising mediator

Your RN Attorney Jennifer Johnston Terando

October 12, 2022.

Leyla Balakhane is knowledgable, compassionate, and effective. I highly recommend her as a mediator.

Shsavina TehrNi

October 10, 2022.

Thank you Leyla for helping us finalize a very difficult journey. We are able to have a better coparenting relationship because of everything you taught us. We are both very grateful for helping us resolve all issues in an amicable manner.

Rachel Hsiung

March 17, 2022.

Leyla is professional, patient and wonderful person to work with. She’s a good negotiator and listener to help her clients to get amicable results.

Noah Stern

October 9, 2021.

Layla is a superb mediator. She helped my family through a tough time with ease. I highly recommend Leyla for any family going through a challenging time.

sepideh doust

March 28, 2021.

Leyla Balakhane was my supervising mediator at children's courthouse. She taught me great communication tools to implement in my mediation practice. She helps the family, social worker, attorneys, and others involved in the case facilitate meaningful discussion and resolve the issues sent to mediation. Her level of wisdom is uncanny. She is able to bring awareness for parents to make the best decision for their family. I would highly recommend her as a skilled mediator in the field of family mediation.

Zak Shapiro

January 22, 2021.

Leyla is an exemplary mediator for couples going through a divorce. She has the couples best interest in mind at all times through out the mediation process. She truly supports couples in making the best decision for them, whether its to help work towards reconciliation or agree on divorce terms. She helps couple find creative and collaborative solutions for their division of assets and debts. She is patient and understanding of what both parties are going though, and she carefully and thoughtfully helps to find a solution. I Cannot recommend her enough!

Matthew Khorsandi

September 28, 2020.

Leyla is an incredible mediator with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Most importantly, she genuinely cares for the people she works with. Highly recommend.