Alternative Dispute Resolution Program Inspires Alumna to Create Pet Mediation Service
In 2021, Katie Mayerson, a seasoned professional with an honours Bachelor of Social Work, a Master of Education, and thirteen years of experience working at a community health centre in Toronto, decided it was time for a change. Driven by her commitment to a life of service and a desire to expand her skills, Katie enrolled in the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) program in 2022.
Throughout the ADR program, Katie gained in-depth knowledge about various methods of resolving community, healthcare, business, employment, small claims court, and family law conflicts. ADR Program Co-ordinator Mary Lee introduced Katie to Dr. Barbara Landau, who authored the family mediation textbook "The Family Dispute Resolution Handbook" used in the program's second semester.
Thanks to this introduction, Katie secured a third-semester placement with Separation Pathways, a non-profit offering cooperative, affordable, timely, and supportive family mediation and mediation arbitration. The placement turned into a job and Katie currently serves as the Administrator of Separation Pathways, where she works closely with the roster of family dispute resolution professionals, supports the Board of Directors, assists clients, and manages internal data processes.
Driven by her interest in family mediation and her lifelong love for animals, Katie identified a gap in the field of dispute resolution when it comes to issues related to pets. In response, she founded Pet Mediation Canada, a specialized service that offers pet-centred, inclusive, supportive, and affordable mediation services to help pet owners resolve disputes related to pet ownership, custody, and care.
With more and more young couples choosing to share pets, there is a growing need for dispute resolution services and "pet-nups" to clarify the care plan for the pet in case the relationship changes or ends. Katie and Pet Mediation Canada are well-positioned to address these needs virtually across the country, and Katie attributes her success in launching this unique service to the valuable education and training she received through Humber's ADR Program.
Humber College's ADR Program has played a crucial role in equipping Katie with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in her field and make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families navigating challenging situations. Her innovative approach to addressing disputes related to pets through Pet Mediation Canada demonstrates how Humber College graduates are using their education and experiences to make positive contributions to their communities and beyond.
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