It took me a while to realize that I was meant to be a family and divorce mediator. My career began by working with kids facing incredible challenges. Many had been dealt a tough hand in life, and I found purpose in helping them discover their strengths. I learned I had a knack for de-escalating tense situations and guiding problem-solving conversations.
After earning my master’s degree in social work, I became the Program Director of a residential treatment program and special education school for adolescent girls. It was here that I learned to navigate some of the most stressful, conflict-ridden situations. I often facilitated case conferences involving parents, students, social workers, attorneys, educators, probation officers, and clinicians—each with different priorities and concerns. My job was to help this diverse group find common ground and move forward with a plan that served the best interests of the student and their family.
During this time, I also became a trainer for the Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) model through MGH’s Department of Psychiatry’s Think:Kids program. In this role, I helped families, schools, and clinical facilities mediate conflict using a philosophy rooted in the belief that all people do well if they can. This approach deeply resonates with my mediation work—recognizing that everyone is doing their best to navigate stressful family issues and they all deserve to be heard and respected.
The more I reflected on my work, the more I realized I was already serving as a mediator. So, when a friend encouraged me to take a 40-hour mediation training, I jumped in. The moment I stepped into that classroom, it was love at first sight. The principles of mediation felt like second nature to me, closely aligning with my social work values—especially the belief in self-determination. What others found challenging, I found intuitive and meaningful.
I started by volunteering in the district court system, attending advanced trainings, and learning from experienced mentors. Over time, I built my private mediation practice, dedicated to helping families from all walks of life navigate complex challenges.
Today, I work with a wide range of families, including:
No two families are the same, but each one deserves a chance to be heard and supported through the mediation process. My many years of meeting families eager to resolve personal conflict and improve communication inspires me. Having the opportunity to provide the support and guidance families need to work through what might be the most stressful time of their lives is one of my lifes’ great privileges.
As a seasoned mediator I am helping train the next generation of mediators, working to spread the word about the power of mediation through presenting and professional affiliations while continually pursuing my own further education and growth opportunities.
I also write a blog to help people improve communication and resolve conflict. Many of my posts are inspired by real experiences—whether from the conference room, the classroom, or my own family room. Others are informational to help increase understanding of complicated issues like child support and asset division. I take pride in writing in a style that’s engaging, relatable, and useful to readers navigating real-life challenges.
My goal is to offer content that’s both meaningful and helpful. You can find a sampling below.
One other factoid about Ben Stich–the last name is spelled “Stich” not “Stitch!” (a common oversight that makes it difficult to find me online).
If you would like a free half-hour consultation, view availability and schedule online.
If you have any questions about our mediation services please send us a message.