Divorce is never easy—especially when children are involved. Whether you’re just beginning the divorce process or are already separated and struggling to co-parent effectively, parenting plan mediation offers a healthier path forward.
At Michael’s Mediation, we help parents across Illinois design custom parenting plans that reduce conflict, prioritize children’s well-being, and help families move forward—without setting foot in a courtroom.
A parenting plan is a foundational part of any divorce agreement involving children. It goes far beyond just scheduling time. A well-thought-out parenting plan sets the tone for how you and your co-parent will raise your children—together, even when apart.
Through co-parenting mediation, we help you and your ex/co-parent create a practical, compassionate plan covering:
This isn’t just about creating a calendar—it’s about building a living, adaptable document that supports the healthy development of your children while helping both parents feel confident, heard, and prepared.
✦ Avoid the Courtroom
Litigation often intensifies conflict, drains finances, and creates rigid rulings that don’t reflect the unique needs of your family. Mediation offers a confidential, calm space for productive discussion—saving you time, money, and stress.
✦ Protect Your Children
Children thrive on consistency and security. A clear, cooperative parenting plan helps them feel safe and supported during a time of transition.
✦ Reduce Conflict & Build Cooperation
Parents often tell us that mediation is the first time they’ve truly felt heard. Instead of fighting over every detail, you’ll work together to create solutions that work for your specific circumstances—with guidance from an experienced mediator.
✔ Customized Parenting Schedules
Tailored to your work schedules, your children’s school routines, extracurriculars, and unique family needs.
✔ Communication & Decision-Making Framework
Agreements on how you’ll make joint decisions, update each other on your children’s lives, and respond to emergencies.
✔ Holidays, Vacations & Special Events
Collaborative planning for holidays, school breaks, travel, and family celebrations—reducing future conflict and confusion.
✔ Day-to-Day Parenting Logistics
We cover practical topics that often lead to stress when overlooked—from bedtime and homework to transportation and extended family boundaries.
We believe that the healthiest way to parent after separation is together—even when you live apart. That’s why our process is structured yet flexible, professional yet personal.
Step 1: Free Consultation Meet with Michael to discuss your situation, goals, and whether mediation is a good fit.
Step 2: Information Gathering We collect important information about your family’s needs, schedules, and concerns.
Step 3: Mediation Sessions Confidential and virtual sessions designed to address each key part of your parenting plan.
Step 4: Drafting the Final Parenting Plan Once agreements are reached, we’ll create a detailed, legally sound plan ready for court approval if needed.
Step 5: Ongoing Support Life changes. We offer support and revisions down the line to ensure your plan stays relevant.
You don’t need to wait for a court battle to take control of your co-parenting journey. Mediation is voluntary, affordable, and effective.
My own experience with a litigated divorce—and its impact on my family—led me to pursue mediation certification. I’ve been where you are. I know the stress, and I know the healing power of cooperative parenting.
My goal is simple: To help you create a realistic and respectful plan that prioritizes your children, minimizes stress, and lays the foundation for a healthy future.
At Michael’s Mediation, LLC, in Lake Forest, IL, we provide co-parenting mediation services to parents who want to move forward—peacefully and practically.
If you're considering co-parenting mediation in Illinois—whether you're newly separated, long divorced, or seeking a better plan—we're here to help.
📞 Call (224) 544‑9990 seven days a week Or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation
Let’s build a parenting plan that supports your children — and your peace of mind.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.