How to Become an Accredited Mediator in South Africa

Want to know how to become a certified family mediator in South Africa? If you're considering a career in mediation, you'll need to complete accredited mediator training in South Africa, followed by certification through a professional body like SAAM or the ADR International Register. This blog outlines the essential steps to become a certified mediator, what certification involves, and how to plan your journey from training to professional practice. Whether you're seeking local accreditation or international recognition, here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Why Is Mediator Accreditation (Certification) Important?

Although mediation is not yet government-regulated in South Africa, professional certification is a crucial step for any aspiring mediator. It assures clients of your credibility, aligns you with a professional code of conduct, and connects you to broader professional networks. Certification is also the first thing most clients look for before appointing a mediator.

On completion of the 80-hour qualification, you'll want to engage this process immediately. The total turnaround time in this respect is usually 7-28 days depending on your choice of professional membership organisation and supervisor, as applicable.

Why Professional Certification Matters

Becoming an accredited mediator isn’t just about completing a course — it’s about earning credibility. Professional certification shows potential clients that you've met the necessary standards and are committed to ethical practice. While mediation is not yet government-regulated in South Africa, accredited bodies like SAAM and the ADR International Register fill this gap by:

• Regulating the mediation industry

• Ensuring consistent quality

• Offering support and legal protection to certified mediators

Key Terms You Need to Know

• Accredited Mediator Training South Africa: A training programme recognised by a professional membership organisation, usually requiring 80 hours of theoretical and practical work.

• Professional Certification: Recognition by a PMO (Professional Membership Organisation) based on fixed criteria and commitment to a code of conduct.

• Certified Family Mediator: A mediator with specialised training and certification to handle family disputes, including divorce and child-related matters.

• Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Points earned through further learning and practice to maintain certification.

Your Certification Options

1. Certification via SAAM (South African Association of Mediators)

• Apply online or via email: saam.org.za/becomeamember

• Cost: R2,500 (includes first-year membership), R837 annually thereafter

• Practical assessments (supervision) required

• Supervision includes either advanced role-play or real-case mediation

• Access to NABFAM-certified supervisors via Mediation Academy

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2. Certification via ADR International Register

• Apply online: adr-register.com

• Cost: R2,800 (first year), R1,050 annually thereafter

• International recognition

• Certification starts at Associate level, with full certification available after 2 years

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What Is Supervision?

Supervision is a critical step in becoming an accredited mediator. It can include:

• Advanced practical sessions

• Real-time mediation under guidance

• Mentorship from a certified supervisor

  
  

Note: Supervisors charge for their services, and top-tier supervisors may cost more.

What's Next After the 80-Hour Qualification?

Once you’ve completed your accredited training course, the next step is applying for certification. You’ll receive support during the final day of the Mediation Academy’s 80-hour course — including help with the paperwork and an explanation of the process.

However, you don’t have to wait until then. You're encouraged to contact Mediation Academy for early guidance on planning and costing.

What is my next step?

If you're considering a career in mediation, you'll want to:

1. plan the process all the way from studying to professional certification, as well as

2. calculate the costs of getting where you want to be.

Your time is the most precious resource you have. Two heads are better than one, contact us or schedule a call with our helpful staff right away and we'll help you plan your career in mediation.

We're available for telephonic and video call support until 19:00 during weekdays, and until 14:00 on Saturdays and public holidays.

Plan Your Career With Confidence

Becoming a certified mediator in South Africa requires more than completing a course. You’ll need to plan for certification, supervision, and membership with the right professional body. If you're aiming for international recognition, the ADR International Register is a great option. For local credibility, SAAM remains a trusted path for many.

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