about us

THE MIRROR BRIDGE PHILOSOPHY

THE MIRROR

INdivIDUal – SELF AWARENESS, understanding, CHANGE, GROWTH

A wide range of life events can cause pain and distress, with many of these events occurring outside of our control. The concept of the ‘mirror’ involves personal analysis which aligns our actual life with our life goals. When we commit to personal growth, the changes can be reflected back to us when we observe our own relationships. Increased empathy, clearer thinking and improved decision making all start to emerge, when we understand ourselves at a deeper level.

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THE BRIDGE

OTHERS – CONNECT, build, strengthen, RESTORE, rebuild

The ‘bridge’ represents connection which is built upon understanding, empathy, and mutual respect between individuals. It requires open communication, active listening, a willingness to compromise, genuine words of encouragement, and appreciation for efforts. Bridges are built and maintained with our loved ones and families, and they also can be damaged or become broken. One person can start the repair work which often means taking responsibility for any harm caused. A bridge can only rebuilt when two people make a commitment to growth and change.

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WHO WE ARE

Meet our founder – dean ferris

Dean is a skilled family practitioner who has experience working with families and individuals in areas including: mediation; counselling; employee wellbeing; youth work; and family violence intervention.

Dean has an understanding and awareness that allows him to help parents try new parenting approaches and strategies that are empathetic and tailored to their circumstances. By combining his expertise with a compassionate approach, Dean empowers families and individuals to navigate challenging situations while fostering growth, healing, and positive change.

Dean has a B.A. Social Welfare & Community Services, Graduate Diploma Family Dispute Resolution and is a Nationally Accredited Mediator

ACCREDITatIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS

mEMBER

Dean is a Nationally Accredited Mediator. Choosing an accredited mediator ensures competency, adherence to standards, and accountability throughout the mediation process. Using an accredited mediator means you can be sure that your service provider is: 1. Accredited by AMDRAS; 2. Compliant with standards and legislation; 3. Competence verified by AMDRAS based on qualifications, training, and experience; 4. Reapplication for accreditation every two years; 5. Professional insurance coverage verified by AMDRAS; 6. Good character checked by AMDRAS; and 7. Feedback/complaint process in place; disciplinary action if needed.

family dispute resolution practitioner accredited BY ATTORNEY-GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT

Family dispute resolution (FDR) helps families resolve separation or divorce disputes. FDR is required by Australian law for child custody disagreements before court applications are allowed. There maybe exceptions which are assessed where appropriate. A Section 60I Certificate from an accredited FDR practitioner is needed for court applications when the parties cannot resolve their issues in mediation. FDR discussions are confidential and not admissible under the Family Law Act.

partner

Mirror Bridge has partnered with Melbourne City Mission’s (MCM) Family Reconciliation Mediation Program to support young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Talk to us now to take the first step toward
strengthening your family relationships