Open a dialogue.
Find a possible way forward.
Mediation offers a structured, impartial framework for people who wish to address a conflict or a difficult relationship at work or in private life.
Based in Vevey, PORTA confiance works on the Vaud Riviera, in Lausanne and Geneva. Meetings can take place at your premises or in a coworking space agreed together; online meetings may also be considered depending on the assignment.
What is mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary process in which an impartial third person helps people work through a conflict. I facilitate expression of perspectives and exploration of solutions. I do not judge who is right or impose an agreement.
Why choose mediation?
When communication becomes rigid, people may spend energy defending themselves or avoiding each other. A different framework allows them to address disagreement, clarify needs and explore options that usual conversations no longer make possible.
Between colleagues, with a manager, within a team or in a private relationship: the aim may be renewed cooperation, new boundaries or an organised separation.
Why work with an external mediator?
When conflict takes over, it can become difficult to see a way forward. An external mediator brings structure and perspective without being caught up in everyday relationships or internal loyalties. The parties can work towards an outcome of their own.
Create room for dialogue
When discussions go round in circles or are avoided, a structured setting allows each person to express their perspective and hear the other. Disagreements can be explored without having to resolve them immediately.
Understand what is blocking progress
Beyond stated positions, we explore the needs, expectations and power dynamics shaping the relationship. This helps the parties identify the issues they can act on.
Build realistic commitments
The parties develop solutions suited to their situation: responsibilities, communication practices, boundaries or ways of working together. They remain free to choose what they accept and can specify how to put their commitments into practice.
Free up energy for what comes next
The process can help the parties move beyond a stuck relationship and clarify the way forward. Depending on the situation, this may mean rebuilding cooperation, redefining the relationship or arranging a separation together.
At PORTA confiance, mediation combines attentive support, legal training and an understanding of power dynamics. I guide the process and support constructive exchanges; the parties retain control of their decisions. Mediation seeks a way forward and does not replace an investigation intended to establish facts.
A path built with the parties
The process is adapted to the conflict and people involved. Voluntary participation and sufficiently safe conditions are considered before dialogue begins.
- 01
Assess the conditions
Preparatory conversations explore expectations, power dynamics and protection needs. We check whether mediation is suitable.
- 02
Agree the framework
People choose to participate. We clarify my role, ground rules, confidentiality and practical arrangements.
- 03
Understand the disagreement
Each person can express their perspective. We clarify what is happening and the questions to address.
- 04
Explore and build
The parties consider realistic options and negotiate what they find acceptable. They remain free to reach an agreement or not.
- 05
Clarify next steps
Commitments can be recorded. Where the parties wish, implementation and possible follow-up arrangements are agreed.
What the process provides
Better understanding of disagreements and, where the parties succeed, commitments they have developed themselves. An outcome may also clarify the limits of a relationship.
A freely chosen process
Mediation requires voluntary participation and conditions that allow each person to speak. Power imbalances and risks to a person require particular attention. Depending on the situation, protective measures, an investigation or another response may be needed before dialogue is considered.
For an organisation, mediation can help address blocked collaboration and develop clear commitments. The outcome depends on the people and context; it may also involve redefining a relationship.
A role defined from the outset
If I have supported someone as a person of trust, I do not then act as mediator, investigator or adviser to the employer in the same matter. Where another intervention is needed, I help identify an appropriate referral. This separation helps protect trust and the impartiality of the process.
Let us discuss your needs
A few lines are enough to arrange an initial conversation. Arrangements, scope and fees are clarified before the service begins.