Building Your Path Forward
Mediation
From agriculture and family to the workplace, we help memorialize mutually acceptable solutions.
Agriculture Mediation
Iowa law identifies several areas where mediation may be required, including farmer-creditor matters, farm nuisances, and care and feeding contracts. As required by Iowa Code Chapter 654, these mediations begin when an aggrieved party submits a Request for Mandatory Mediation form to Iowa Mediation Service (IMS). This request should include relevant contact and loan information.
Family Mediation
Family mediation provides support when conflict arises within families. IMS offers mediation and facilitation services for a variety of situations, including couples, parents and children, and multigenerational family dynamics. Sessions may be held as a single meeting or as a series of conversations to work through concerns and identify solutions that meet the needs of those involved.
Please note: IMS is not a court-appointed provider for divorce or child custody mediation.
Workplace Mediation
Workplace mediation helps address conflict between employees, supervisors, or teams in a constructive and confidential setting. IMS works with organizations to improve communication, rebuild working relationships, and support a more respectful and productive workplace. Mediation can be used to address specific disputes or ongoing challenges within a team or organization.
Facilitation
Guiding participants to navigate decision-making, communication, and interpersonal dynamics.
Farm Transition Planning
Iowa is home to over 86,800 farms, with nearly 84% of the state’s land dedicated to agriculture. Behind these operations are families and operators whose histories often span generations. Planning for the transition of a farm to the next successor is an important step in preserving that legacy. IMS provides support to help guide these conversations and plan for the future.
WorkPlace Facilitation
Workplace facilitation supports teams and organizations by guiding structured conversations, meetings, and group processes. IMS helps create a space where all participants can contribute, stay focused, and work toward shared goals. Facilitation is especially useful for team development, strategic planning, and navigating complex discussions.
Academic Facilitation
Academic facilitation supports students, educators, and institutions by fostering effective communication and collaboration. Facilitators create an inclusive environment where individuals can share ideas, address concerns, and engage in meaningful discussion. This approach encourages critical thinking, strengthens problem-solving skills, and promotes self-advocacy across all levels of the academic setting.
Education
We equip individuals and organizations with practical tools to navigate conflict confidently and constructively.
Mediation Training Programs
Our curriculum covers various topics about improving as communicators and conflict practitioners. IMS offers a 32-hour Introduction to Mediation Skills course and an 8-hour Advanced Mediation Skills course. These programs are developed to help individuals improve their skills.
Organizational Training
IMS’s Organizational Training programs teach skills to help teams communicate more effectively and manage conflict efficiently. Training can be delivered through in-person workshops, virtual sessions, or a combination of platforms to best meet the needs of your organization.
Speaking Events
Speakers from Iowa Mediation Service draw on their diverse experiences and IMS’s core pillars — mediation, facilitation, and education — to engage audiences on a wide range of topics.
Outreach Services
Iowa Mediation Service has participated in numerous outreach events across diverse sectors, including agriculture, education, nonprofit, and many other organizations, providing conflict-management education, facilitation, and resources to strengthen communication and collaboration.
