My Story

I took my first 20-hr mediation skills training while attending law school in 2006 because I was drawn to understanding different ways of resolving conflicts outside of the legal system.

After completing my education, I became an employment lawyer, litigating cases involving unemployment benefits, unpaid wages, and discrimination. However, by 2010, I had grown tired of litigation.

Despite my success in "winning" cases, I felt that the compensation we received would never fully address the wrongs suffered by my clients. I recognized that people needed not only financial compensation, but also emotional validation and understanding.

Katie sitting on a coach looking at the camera.

In 2011, I took the Center for Conflict Resolution's (CCR) 40-hour mediation training and became a certified mediator in 2012. Since then, I have volunteered with CCR in a number of capacities including as a mediator and mediation coach.

Throughout my career, I've worked with non-profits, small businesses, government agencies, tech startups, and global corporations. Today, interpersonal conflicts are on the rise while our ability to engage in constructive dialogue is declining. This leaves us feeling alone and disconnected at work and home. Many of us lack the skills to navigate difficult conversations independently, leading to escalated conflicts and strained relationships.

I founded Mutual Ground Mediation, LLC, with a mission to provide conflict resolution services to businesses and individuals seeking to repair relationships, create community, foster healthy workplaces, and avoid litigation. Using transformative and facilitative mediation approaches, I guide parties in understanding each other's needs and determining solutions that meet those needs.

I can provide virtual conflict resolution services anywhere, or in-person in the Chicago area. My services include mediation, facilitation, coaching, and training. If you are interested in learning more, click the button below to set up a 30-min consultation!

Let's Talk!

Core Values

Autonomy

You get to decide what you want and what is needed for mutual resolution. You own your solutions.

Appreciation

Everyone wants to be heard and understood. Appreciating the motivations and values held by others will help you manage conflict.

Connectedness

We all need connection to others and community. Conflict resolution skills can help build your communities at work and home.

Hope

Engaging in conflict resolution communicates to yourself and others that you believe change is possible.

Mission

To provide conflict resolution services for businesses and individuals to manage conflict, avoid the cost and stress of litigation, and promote healthy relationships and communities.

Vision

To increase awareness about medation, expand access to conflict resolution services, and give people the tools and confidence to resolve their own conflicts with dignity.

My Logo

This logo is a dove formed from independent pieces of an olive branch, symbolizing peace. The olive branch represents the action towards creating peace and a dove is formed through that action. Mediation is the action, peace is the result.

Professional Qualifications

Education

CCR Certified Mediator

CCR Certified Mediation Coach

MTI Certified Workplace Mediator

MTI Certified Trainer in Conflict Resolution

IMI Qualified Mediator

Took the 40-hr Mediation Skills Training with the Center for Conflict Resolution (CCR) in 2011. Received Certification with CCR in 2012 and became a volunteer. Certified as a mediation coach in 2014. Ongoing education through advanced training, continuing education events, reflective practice groups, and volunteering commitments.

Became certified as a Workplace Mediator and am certified to provide training to workplaces on various models of conflict resolution.

JD/MA

American University

Washington College of Law

Received a JD from Washington College of Law, and an MA in International Politics from American University through a dual degree program. First took a 20-hr mediation skills training from American University Judicial Affairs & Mediation Services.

Kalamazoo College

Received a BA in Anthropology and Sociology with a concentration in Women's Studies and a minor in Ceramic Sculpture/Art.