TRAUMA & MEDIATION: Trauma-Informed Tools for Conflict Resolution and Mediation

In any conflict resolution process, safety and trust are foundational—but they are especially critical when working with individuals who have experienced trauma. A trauma-informed approach does not treat all parties the same. Instead, it acknowledges the unique ways trauma shapes behaviour, perception, and capacity for engagement. By integrating specific tools and principles, mediators can foster more inclusive, supportive environments that encourage resolution without re-traumatization.  

1. Psychological Safety

There is huge value in creating clear, predictable structures. Trauma often thrives on unpredictability. The mediation process is explained in detail before it begins, using consistent language.  Written materials are provided in advance so  that participants can review in advance and clear expectations as regards what to expect and when, with the choice to pause or stop if needed. Small gestures—like offering a comfortable seat, water, or a few minutes to settle in—can signal care and safety.

2. Choice and Agency

Many trauma survivors have experienced powerlessness. Offering choices during mediation—such as where to sit, when to take breaks, or whether to use face-to-face or shuttle mediation—can help restore a sense of control.  As might intentionally voicing respect for participants’ boundaries and giving  opportunities to consent to each step of the process. Choice fosters empowerment, which is central to trauma recovery.

3. Nervous System Regulation

A dysregulated nervous system can impair communication, comprehension, and decision-making. Using a calm tone, clear language, and avoiding abrupt changes is important. If someone appears overwhelmed, the process can be paused. Grounding techniques like deep breathing, orienting to the room, or taking a short walk can be helpful. Mediators might also consider  co-regulation strategies—such as pacing speech or mirroring calm body language—to help anchor participants.

4. Trauma-Informed Communication

Use  of reflective  and  active listening, validation, and summarising to de-escalate tension (and avoiding loaded language, accusations, or adversarial framing is obviously good practise). Framing issues in terms of needs and impacts rather than blame is central to mediation practise and but acknowledging the traumatic experience someone may have been through in a sensitive way and the needs and impacts that flow from this is important and can also support the development of feelings of safety and trust. 

5. Recognition of Shame and Fear Responses

Shame can be paralysing and is often hidden behind defensiveness or withdrawal. Acknowledging the difficulty of the conversation and praising the courage it takes to engage can be supporting and freeing and creating space for emotional expression without judgment.  Fear or shame, for example, could prompt reactions such as anger, withdrawal, avoidance or shut down, or excessive self-blame. When shame or fear are triggered, the brain may respond as though the traumatic incident is being experienced again. If this can be recognised as a potential part of the dynamic space can be found for reassurance, re-engagement and the development or redevelopment of safety.

6. Build Trust - Slowly

Trauma survivors or those facing ongoing threat may not trust the mediator, the process, or perhaps even themselves.  There is enormous  value in being explicitly   transparent about the role, your neutrality, and the commitment to fairness that. Trust-building happens through consistency, compassion, and patience—sometimes, over time.  

7. Flexibility and Creativity

Trauma-informed mediation isn’t one-size-fits-all. Nor is any mediation. The process needs to be adapted   creatively: shorter sessions, allowing written communication, involving therapeutic support, or delaying high-stakes decision-making are all possibilities. Centring the participants’ needs and capacities, not just procedural goals.

Ultimately, trauma-informed conflict resolution is about more than reducing harm—it’s about creating conditions for dignity, agency, and connection. When people feel safe and their experience is at least partly understood, they are more likely to engage honestly, listen to others, and move toward meaningful resolution.  At its best, trauma-aware mediation does not just resolve disputes—it can contribute to post traumatic growth and recovery.

See our previous articles:

Trauma and Neurobiology

Trauma-Informed Tools for Conflict Resolution and Mediation