Advancing the Profession of Mediation Since 1999.
For almost three decades, the National Association of Certified Mediators has been dedicated to advancing professional mediation knowledge, certification, and lifelong learning.
We believe that knowledgeable, well-prepared mediators can play a meaningful role in helping people navigate conflict and work toward constructive resolutions.
Built on a Shared Commitment
NACM began when mediators came together with a shared goal: to promote professional knowledge and improve access to mediation services.
- Professional certification
- Mediation education and training
- Continuing professional development
- Support for the mediation community
Where Our Story Began
A group of mediators. A shared professional vision. A commitment to improving mediation knowledge.
Our Story Began With a Shared Vision.
The National Association of Certified Mediators began in 1999 when a group of mediation professionals came together around a common purpose.
They recognized the importance of establishing a foundation of academic knowledge for individuals pursuing professional mediation credentials.
Their vision extended beyond the certification of individual mediators. It was also about supporting the broader public by encouraging knowledgeable, responsible mediation practices.
Today, that commitment continues. NACM provides mediation training, certification examinations, recertification opportunities, and professional resources for individuals at different stages of their mediation journeys.
Our Mission, Vision & Values
NACM's work reflects a commitment to professional knowledge, practical development, and lifelong learning.
Our Mission
To promote professional mediation knowledge through education, certification, and continuing professional development, helping mediators build a strong academic foundation for their work.
Our Vision
A mediation community in which professionals pursue meaningful knowledge, practical competence, and ongoing growth while helping individuals and organizations address conflict constructively.
Our Values
We emphasize professional preparation, ethical awareness, continued learning, responsible certification, and recognition of the practical skills required for effective mediation.
Certification Is a Milestone. Professional Growth Is a Journey.
One of NACM's founding principles is the distinction between academic certification and practical mediation competence.
What Certification Demonstrates
Certification provides a way to assess an individual's understanding of specified mediation principles and academic knowledge.
NACM's examinations evaluate knowledge of essential mediation concepts as part of the certification process.
What Real-World Practice Develops
Effective mediation also requires the ability to listen carefully, remain impartial, manage difficult conversations, and help parties explore solutions.
These practical abilities develop through experience, observation, mentoring, training, and continued professional growth.
Our guiding principle: A certification examination measures academic knowledge; it cannot, by itself, establish every skill needed to be an effective mediator. Practical competence and applicable employer or court requirements must also be considered.
Supporting Mediators at Every Stage
Whether you're new to the field, already trained, or maintaining your certification, NACM offers different pathways to support your professional development.
40-Hour Mediator Certification Course
Designed for beginners and professionals seeking comprehensive mediation training.
Build foundational knowledge through structured lessons, learning activities, and practical exercises.
Explore Training →Initial Mediator Certification
For individuals who have already completed at least 40 hours of advanced mediation training.
Demonstrate your knowledge through the NACM certification examination without repeating the complete training course.
Get Certified →Mediator Recertification
Keep your existing NACM professional credential current through the online recertification process.
NACM's renewal policy requires recertification every two years without mandatory NACM CEUs.
Explore Recertification →We Believe Learning Never Stops.
NACM has long encouraged mediators to take responsibility for their continuing professional development.
Rather than relying solely on mandatory continuing education units for NACM recertification, we encourage members to pursue continuous, self-directed learning.
- Professional books and publications
- Workshops, webinars, and training
- Mentoring and practical experience
- Peer networking and knowledge sharing
- Continued study of mediation techniques
Grow Your Knowledge. Build Your Network.
NACM also offers professional membership opportunities to eligible members in good standing.
These include networking, professional visibility, learning resources, and opportunities to connect with other mediation professionals.
Members may also benefit from the NACM public member directory and other available association resources.
Explore Our Member Directory →Hear From the People We've Served
Discover how NACM students and certification participants describe their training experiences, professional development, and engagement with our programs.
Read NACM Testimonials →Learn More About NACM
When was NACM established?
The National Association of Certified Mediators began in 1999 as a group of mediators sharing a common professional goal.
What is NACM's approach to certification?
NACM uses examinations to assess specified academic knowledge of mediation principles. Practical skill, experience, and other qualifications must be evaluated separately.
Does NACM offer training for beginners?
Yes. NACM offers a 40-hour mediator certification course for individuals who need foundational mediation training.
Can experienced mediators become certified?
Individuals who have completed at least 40 hours of qualifying advanced mediation training may pursue the initial certification examination pathway.
Does NACM require CEUs for recertification?
NACM does not require Continuing Education Units for its own recertification process. Recertification is required every two years. Other organizations may have additional requirements.
Is certification sufficient for every mediation role?
Not necessarily. Courts, employers, agencies, and mediation programs may have additional requirements. Individuals should verify the qualifications applicable to their intended work.
Be Part of a Professional Community Committed to Better Conflict Resolution.
Whether you're taking your first step into mediation or expanding your professional knowledge, NACM offers education and certification pathways to support your goals.