<Ul> <Li> A mediator aims for clear agreement between the participants as to how they will deal with specific issues . A counsellor is more concerned with the parties gaining a better self - understanding of their individual behaviour . </Li> <Li> A mediator, while acknowledging a person's feelings, does not explore them in any depth . A counsellor is fundamentally concerned about how people feel about a range of relevant experiences . </Li> <Li> A mediator focuses upon participants' future goals rather than a detailed analysis of past events . A counsellor may find it necessary to explore the past in detail to expose the origins and patterns of beliefs and behaviour . </Li> <Li> A mediator controls the process but does not overtly try to influence the participants or the actual outcome . A counsellor often takes an intentional role in the process, seeking to influence the parties to move in a particular direction or consider specific issues . </Li> <Li> A mediator relies on all parties being present to negotiate, usually face - to - face . A counsellor does not necessarily see all parties at the same time . </Li> <Li> A mediator is required to be neutral . A counsellor may play a more supportive role, where appropriate . </Li> <Li> Mediation requires both parties to be willing to negotiate . Counselling may work with one party even if the other is not ready or willing to participate . </Li> <Li> Mediation is a structured process that typically completes in one or a few sessions . Counselling tends to be ongoing, depending upon participants' needs and progress . </Li> </Ul> <Li> A mediator aims for clear agreement between the participants as to how they will deal with specific issues . A counsellor is more concerned with the parties gaining a better self - understanding of their individual behaviour . </Li> <Li> A mediator, while acknowledging a person's feelings, does not explore them in any depth . A counsellor is fundamentally concerned about how people feel about a range of relevant experiences . </Li> <Li> A mediator focuses upon participants' future goals rather than a detailed analysis of past events . A counsellor may find it necessary to explore the past in detail to expose the origins and patterns of beliefs and behaviour . </Li>

When can mediation be used to assist parties to resolve a dispute