Willow McLean, MSW, RSW

I have worked in the field of child protection, child and adolescent mental health, and child and family well being in Nova Scotia for over 15 years. During this time I have witnessed the amazing amount of strength, creativity, and resiliency that families in Nova Scotia possess. I have seen the great lengths that parents will go to to make sure their children are healthy, happy, and protected. I have been privileged to hear peoples' stories and to provide support and assistance during difficult times in their lives.

​

Unfortunately during this time, I have also witnessed the profound negative consequences that ongoing parenting conflicts can have on children, and families as a whole. Children can be confused, or forced to choose sides between their separating parents and parents can become trapped in endless cycles of grief, anger, and conflict. Decisions on parenting and living arrangements need to be made quickly and thoughtfully so that children do not get caught in the middle of adult conflict.  

​

Even with the best intentions, getting a parenting plan in place is often "easier said than done". I have seen how difficult, confusing, expensive, and unrealistic it can be for many families to access the family court system in a timely and effective manner. Making an initial parenting plan or solving ongoing parenting disputes is not as simple as saying "You should talk to your lawyer" or "You should go back to family court". Many people do not have the time, money, or emotional resources to go through this process once, let alone multiple times. 

​

The opportunity and hope for families offered by a family mediation process is significant. With some support, coaching, and process facilitation, I believe most parents will be able to negotiate their own solutions to the issues facing their families and find a way forward. My job as a social worker and mediator is to provide a flexible process, reliable information, thoughtful guidance, and a safe space for parents to have the discussions that they need to for their children. 

​

Please reach out to me by phone or email, I'm happy to discuss your individual situation, answer any questions about the mediation process, or even provide referrals to other service providers if it turns out mediation is not the right process for you. 

​