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HELPING COUPLES NAVIGATE THE JOURNEY THROUGH SEPARATION AND DIVORCE.

Guiding families to find solutions that provide the best possible outcomes for everyone involved.

Why Work With Julie?

When my former partner and I separated, we felt what so many couples feel: overwhelmed, unsure where to turn, and worried about making the wrong decisions. We didn’t know who we could trust to guide us.

 

Finding the right family mediator changed everything for us.

 

We finally had someone who helped us slow down, understand our options, and work through each decision in a calm, respectful way. That experience made such a difference that I knew I wanted to help other families the same way.

I understand what you’re going through not just as a mediator, but as someone who has lived it. I know how stressful and emotionally heavy this time can feel, and how important it is to have someone who can keep the process clear, balanced, and manageable.

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Learn More About Family Mediation Below

Not sure if family mediation is right for you? Learn more about the benefits, the process, and whether it’s a good fit for your situation.

What Is Family Mediation?

Family mediation is a voluntary process that helps separating or divorcing couples resolve important issues outside of court. It provides a safe, neutral space where both parties can express their needs, explore options, and work toward practical, lasting solutions.​

 

A trained family mediator acts as a neutral third  party. They do not take sides or make decisions for the parties. Instead, the mediator guides conversations, ensures each person is heard, and helps keep discussions focused and respectful.

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What is Family Mediation?

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  • Cost-effective:

    Mediation is significantly more affordable than going to court.
     

  • Time-efficient:

    Mediation can resolve issues quickly and provides greater flexibility with scheduling. 
     

  • Private and Confidential:

    Mediation allows parties to resolve their disputes in a private setting, away from public scrutiny. 
     

  • Empowering:

    Individuals have control of the decision-making process and decide on the final outcome. 
     

  • Fosters Communication:

    Improves dialogue between the parties resulting in more positive co-parenting relationships. 

Why Choose Mediation Over Court?

What Issues Can Be Resolved Through Mediation?

  • Parenting Plans:

    Decision Making
    Parenting Time
    Holiday/Vacation Schedules
    Communication

     

  • Child Support:

    Table Child Support Amounts
    Section 7 - Special Extraordinary Expenses

     

  • Spousal Support:

    Amount and Duration 
     

  • Financial:

    Division of Assets
    Equalization Payments

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  1. Initial Consultation:

    Schedule a complimentary 20 minute session to ask questions and explore whether mediation is the right fit for your situation.
     

  2. Agreement to Mediate:

    Parties sign a contract outlining the expectations and responsibilities during mediation.
     

  3. Intake Meetings:

    Each party meets independently with the  mediator to provide background on the family's unique situation and to identify some of the    issues to be addressed through mediation.
     

  4. Mediation Sessions:

    The mediator facilitates discussions between the parties with the goal of resolving their issues.  In most cases this can be done through joint sessions. In high conflict cases, the sessions can be tailored as shuttle mediation where the mediator meets individually with each party and relays information between them.
     

  5. Memorandum of Understanding:

    Once an agreement has been reached, the mediator prepares a report that can be used to create a Separation Agreement.

How Does the Process Work?

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  • Community Roots:

    Proudly owned and operated in Wellington  County, we understand the local community
    and can connect you with trusted nearby professionals and resources.

     

  • Tailored to your Needs:

    We offer flexible evening and weekend appointments, along with creative, personalized solutions that reflect your family’s unique situation.
     

  • Professional and Accredited:

    We are fully insured and accredited by the Ontario Association for Family Mediation (OAFM), ensuring professional, ethical, and effective service.
     

  • Transparent Pricing:

    No retainers, no hidden fees. Each party is billed separately and only for the time used—so you stay in control of the cost.

Why Choose Us?

Begin Your Mediation Journey

Ready to take the next step? Find out how family mediation can help.

Serving Guelph and Wellington County

Centre Wellington

  • Fergus

  • Elora

  • Belwood

  • Salem

Wellington North

  • Arthur

  • Mount Forest

  • Kenilworth

  • Conn

East Wellington

  • Rockwood

  • Erin

  • Hillsburgh

  • Eden Mills

Mapleton

  • Drayton

  • Moorefield

  • Alma

  • Rothsay

Minto

  • Palmerston

  • Harriston

  • Clifford

  • Teviotdale

South Wellington

  • Puslinch

  • Aberfoyle

  • Eramosa

  • Ariss

Hours

Flexible hours including evening and weekend appointments.

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Legal Disclaimer​ - The information contained on this website is not meant to replace legal advice.  It is strongly recommended that each party obtain independent legal advice from an attorney who is licensed to practice Family Law in Ontario.

© 2025 by Guelph-Wellington Family Mediation Ltd. All rights reserved.

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GUELPH-WELLINGTON
FAMILY MEDIATION

A Better Path Forward

Julie Charbonneau

519-968-3697

julie@gwmediation.ca

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