Family Mediator FAQ

What training and experience does someone need in order to apply for certification?

Initially, one must have at least a Bachelor's degree in any field. Beyond that one must have 48 hours of instructional training including family mediation, domestic violence issues and information specific to New Hampshire and complete an internship of at least 20 hours with a certified mediator. Certain professions may qualify an applicant to complete a reduced internship of only 10 hours.

Family mediators must also keep current by participating in continuing education in order to remain certified by the state.

Who can I contact to receive training in family mediation in New Hampshire?

Directors of certified training programs, which provide the required instructional 48-hour core training, with contact information are listed on this website.

I took basic mediation in another state. Does that count?

Review Administrative Rule Fam 303.03(a)(1) to determine whether the basic mediation training taken in another state satisfies some of the requirements for certification in New Hampshire. In any case, you must take the required domestic violence and New Hampshire legal training from a New Hampshire certified training program.

I took basic mediation more than three years ago. Do I have to take it over again to get certified?

If the basic mediation, domestic violence and New Hampshire legal training taken more than 3 years ago was provided by a New Hampshire certified training program, you do not need to take them again.

However, per Administrative Rule Fam 303.03 (b)(2)b, within 12 months of the date of your application for certification, you must take 12 hours of Board approved continuing education, 3 hours in each of these topics: Mediator Ethics, Mediation Skills, Legal Update and Domestic Violence. You should review Administrative Rule Fam 404to more information about continuing education course approval requirements.

Whom can I contact to get an internship?

All certified family mediators, who have at least two years experience mediating family matters and have mediated a minimum of 15 cases, may provide internships.

How does one apply to become a certified Family Mediator?

After completing the required training and internship, one must submit the completed application, application fee, and requested documentation to the Board. In addition, one must arrange to have the following sent directly to the Board: completed internship evaluations from the certified mediator(s) who supervised the internship, and a total of 3 letters of recommendation, meeting the requirements of Administrative Rule Fam 302.05.

How can I get an application?

Application Forms may be downloaded from this website or you may request one be mailed to you by emailing the board or calling the above phone number and providing your complete mailing address.

I was a mediator in another state. How do I become certified in this state?

After consulting the Administrative Rules, you may find that your basic mediation training taken in another state satisfies some of the requirements for certification in New Hampshire. However, you must take the required domestic violence and New Hampshire legal training from a New Hampshire certified training program. Once you have met the training requirements, you will still be required to do an internship in New Hampshire before you submit your application for certification.