Helping you navigate

transitions peacefully

Conflicts can be overwhelming but resolution is within reach

Marital Mediation

Marital mediation helps couples navigate challenges, and creates tailored agreements to strengthen their relationship and set a solid foundation for a successful future together.


Divorce Mediation

Divorce Mediation helps couples navigate a peaceful transition, minimizing headache, heartache, and expenses while fostering goodwill to create a healthier foundation for moving forward.

Trusted Mediation Services Throughout California

Family Mediation Associates has been created to help family members resolve conflicts quickly. If you and your family are experiencing what seem to be irreconcilable differences, this is the path for you. In a non-adversarial, caring and structured environment our process will help you reach a mutually satisfactory agreement that is tailored to meet your family's unique needs. We are available to assist with conflict resolution pertaining to all family related concerns, including divorce. Regardless of the nature of the problem, skilled mediators are available to assist family members through the process of developing collaborative resolution.

Expert Guidance

Flexible Scheduling

Tailored Solutions

Collaborative Process

Dedicated to Supporting You

Through Life’s Transitions

Providing Compassionate Solutions for Life’s Most Important Decisions

We understand that family-related challenges can be both emotional and complex. With a commitment to empathy and expertise, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Whether it’s Family Mediation, Divorce Mediation, Legal Separation, or developing parenting plans and custody arrangements, our dedicated team offers personalized solutions to help you achieve the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones.

Joseph W. Ferra, founder of Family Mediation Associates, has

dedicated his career to helping families navigate challenging transitions with clarity and compassion. With over 20 years of experience in counseling and mediation, he combines disciplines with a deep commitment to peaceful conflict resolution. He served as a Superior Court Mediation Specialist for Kern and Los Angeles Counties and is an experienced mediator in family matters. Mr. Ferra earned his Mediation Credential and Advanced Mediation Credential at UCLA. His vision is to provide families with a safe and trusted, supportive space to reach fair agreements, ensuring a brighter future for all involved. Under his leadership, our team remains dedicated to delivering personalized solutions and client-centered results.

Joseph Ferra

- Family Mediation Associates is an association of professional mediators led by its Founder and President, Joseph W. Ferra, M.S., L.M.F.T.

Ready to find peaceful solutions for your family’s most important matters?

Let’s take the first step together.

5-Star Mediation Service

What Our Clients Say About Our Exceptional Mediation

"I thank God for putting you with my daughter and her family. That is the MOST constructive time they've spent together since last year that I'm aware of!!! Thank you! My husband and I are very grateful for all that you did. My daughter shared briefly that she didn't think there was anyone like you. May God continue to use you in mighty ways, and bless you and your dear family."

- Veronica

"Thank you for your assistance during the most difficult time I have ever faced in my life. You are a kind soul, and have an amazing spirit! The world needs more like you."

- Scarlett

"Thank you for honoring my wishes and prayers of feeling safe, fair, and not controlled or manipulated. Even though this is a very difficult time for us, you helped keep us on track and focused. I feel that God's presence was there and in the end we all wanted the same things, peace, dignity and a time to move forward."

- Norma

"My husband and I chose Mediation to handle the dissolution of our marriage. Divorce was a hard decision for me. In a meeting with Joe, he shared a success story where through the process of mediation he helped a couple reconcile their marriage. This story gave me hope, as my ultimate goal was for reconciliation. My husband and I have tried couples therapy, marriage counseling through our church, and what feels like every option imaginable. Joe has shown great compassion and care in dealing with us both as people going through a tough situation. It has been amazing to be a part of our sessions and witness how effective his communication skills really are. I know we both feel very fortunate to have him in our corner and know that in the end we will be more successful parents going forward."

- Tracie G

5-Star Mediation Service

What Our Clients Say About Our Exceptional Mediation

"Thank you for honoring my wishes and prayers of feeling safe, fair, and not controlled or manipulated. Even though this is a very difficult time for us, you helped keep us on track and focused. I feel that God's presence was there and in the end we all wanted the same things, peace, dignity and a time to move forward."

- Norma

"I thank God for putting you with my daughter and her family. That is the MOST constructive time they've spent together since last year that I'm aware of!!! Thank you! My husband and I are very grateful for all that you did. My daughter shared briefly that she didn't think there was anyone like you. May God continue to use you in mighty ways, and bless you and your dear family."

- Veronica

"Thank you for your assistance during the most difficult time I have ever faced in my life. You are a kind soul, and have an amazing spirit! The world needs more like you."

- Scarlett

"My husband and I chose Mediation to handle the dissolution of our marriage. Divorce was a hard decision for me. In a meeting with Joe, he shared a success story where through the process of mediation he helped a couple reconcile their marriage. This story gave me hope, as my ultimate goal was for reconciliation. My husband and I have tried couples therapy, marriage counseling through our church, and what feels like every option imaginable. Joe has shown great compassion and care in dealing with us both as people going through a tough situation. It has been amazing to be a part of our sessions and witness how effective his communication skills really are. I know we both feel very fortunate to have him in our corner and know that in the end we will be more successful parents going forward."

- Tracie G

FAQ

We understand that mediations concerns can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions to help you gain clarity and confidence about your family law case.

What is mediation, and how does it work?

Mediation is a structured, confidential process where a neutral mediator helps parties communicate, negotiate, and reach mutually agreeable solutions without going to court.

How is mediation different from going to court?

Mediation is a faster, more affordable, and less adversarial process compared to litigation. It encourages cooperation and allows both parties to have a say in the outcome rather than leaving decisions up to a judge.

What types of family matters can be resolved through mediation?

We assist with divorce mediation, child custody arrangements, parenting plans, post-divorce modifications, marital mediation, and estate planning disputes.

Is mediation legally binding?

Once both parties agree on the terms, the mediator can draft a Memorandum of Understanding or a legally binding agreement, which can be submitted to a court for approval if necessary.

How long does the mediation process take?

The timeline varies based on complexity, but most cases are resolved in a few sessions rather than the months or years a court case may take.

How do I get started with mediation?

Booking a consultation is easy! Simply schedule an appointment online or contact us to discuss your needs and take the first step toward resolution.

At Family Mediation Associates, we are committed to offering compassionate, expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. With a focus on clarity and trust, we help you navigate challenging family matters with confidence. Our goal is to create peaceful resolutions that prioritize your family’s well-being and future. Together, we’ll find the best path forward.

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Location: 1635 Brighton Ave, Grover Beach California 93433

Phone: (661) 805-5445

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