The intended prospect of party-directed mediation is to improve upon the ability and willingness of disputants to deal with subsequent differences.
The concept behind party-directed mediation, depending upon the degree to which a case lends itself, is that if and when parties wish to spend the time to acquire the skills necessary to become more effective negotiators, then they can be empowered to achieve a self-directed resolution.
Party-directed mediation is of special value where individuals or stakeholders will continue to have ongoing interactions, as well as for conflicts with significant interpersonal aspects.
One aspect of the mediation model focuses on listening, using the techniques of client centered therapy developed by Carl Rogers.
[2] The role of the mediator is primarily to be a good listener and coach, thereby allowing the parties involved to have free rein over the specific steps taken toward resolving a conflict or achieving a compromise.