FDMCGNY strongly encourages all of its members to obtain accreditation.  Accreditation advances our profession and helps the public make informed decisions when choosing a mediator.  Although accreditation is not mandatory in order to become a mediator, and clients are free to choose a mediator based on a variety of factors, including that mediator’s particular background, experience and “good fit,” accreditation can offer a consistent yardstick for measuring mediator qualifications.  It also serves to allay concerns that have been raised by individuals and groups within and outside the profession as to the lack of uniform standards, particularly since at present there is no state licensure or certification of mediators. 

Given the lack of regulation by the State, it is the important responsibility of private membership organizations to establish criteria for training, experience, mentoring and continuing education.  FDMCGNY has determined not to have its own accreditation process, but instead to identify as “accredited” those members who are accredited with the New York State Council on Divorce Mediation (NYSCDM) or the New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators (NJAPM), or who have obtained Advanced Practitioner status with the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR), Family Section.  The criteria can be found on the respective websites of those organizations. 

FDMCGNY is concerned about the professional development of its members.  Our Professional Development and Mentoring Committee, which is a joint committee with the New York State Council on Divorce Mediation, identifies and promotes opportunities for newer mediators to gain the experience necessary for accreditation, and offers mentoring by experienced practitioners.