The concept of mediation recognizes that feelings are as important as the
legal aspects of divorce and that there are often psychological as well as legal
barriers which must be understood and overcome before compromise and agreement
become possible. Thus representing a "marriage" between the concepts
of psychotherapy and labor mediation,' 9 divorce mediation stresses "honesty,
informality, open and direct communication, expression, attention to the
underlying causes of disputes, reinforcement of positive bonds, and avoidance
of blame."" Its purpose is not only to help spouses reach an agreement which
recognizes the needs and rights of all family members but also to lay the foundation
"for the healthy restructuring of post-divorce family life.