'Mediating in Challenging Times' – Attend this MCI Zoom Conference - Feb. 6th, 2026 at 1:30 pm

2026 Annual Advanced Mediation Training 'Mediating in Challenging Times' 

Friday, February 6, 2026 • 1:30–4:45 PM CT • Live via Zoom 3 hours of continuing education 3 Hours of General CLE Approved (CEUs for mental health professionals applied for).

Once purchased, the Conference Zoom Link will be sent to all pre-registered attendees 2 days prior to the Conference.

SEE MEMBER AND NON-MEMBER PRICING BELOW FOR YOUR TICKET PURCHASE, AND PLEASE ABIDE BY YOUR MEMBERSHIP OR NON-MEMBER STATUS FOR THIS CONFERENCE PRICING AS STATED BELOW.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION AND PRICING:

MCI Members: $10. - for MCI members who renewed membership after November 15, 2025. Membership includes: discounted education, free bimonthly presentations, and professional community.

Non-Members: $75. 

JOIN to be a member of MCI, or RENEW before registering to attend for $10.

Please abide by the $75. pricing for non-members.

Why Attend: Family conflict is evolving and so is the work of mediators. This year’s training brings together thought-leaders from law, behavioral finance, and parenting specialists to share practical skills you can apply immediately to your mediation practice. 

Grow your confidence, sharpen your instincts, and strengthen your professional community all in one afternoon. 

Perfect for: • Family & financial mediators • Mental health and family support professionals • Collaborative practitioners • Legal professionals guiding complex family dynamics 

Featured Presenters & Topics: 

Sara Stolberg, PhD, CDFA, CFP® Decision-Making & Problem-Solving: Mitigating Bias Using Behavioral Finance Research How cognitive bias influences negotiations and what mediators can do to rebalance power, foster clarity, and improve decision quality. 

Erin Birt, JD, CADC Holding the Line: Reality Testing, Red Flags & Ethical Challenges in Mediation Strategies and language for navigating high-conflict dynamics, identifying risk indicators, and maintaining structure and neutrality while supporting durable outcomes. 

Linda Cunabaugh, JD Parenting Plans for Families with Special-Needs Children Tools and considerations to help parents build plans that reflect developmental, medical, and relational needs, both now and into the future. 

Continuing Education Credit Information: 3 hours of advanced training. 3 Hours of General CLE Approved (CEUs for mental health professionals applied for).

Questions: Jerry Kessler (847) 367-4500 

Why MCI: The Mediation Council of Illinois is dedicated to elevating professional mediation statewide, offering training, networking, and leadership opportunities that make you better at what you do and more visible to those who need you. 

Benefits include: • Low-cost CE/CLE access • Evidence-informed training • Directory presence and professional visibility • Supportive statewide community 

Whether you are renewing or joining for the first time, MCI is here to support your development as a mediator. 

Do not miss this annual event. Reserve your spot — and secure the member rate — today. 

Once purchased, the Conference Zoom Link will be sent to all pre-registered attendees 2 days prior to the Conference.