My training and extensive experience in mediation, psychology, negotiation, and conflict resolution uniquely qualify me to help you. I will collaborate with you in an understanding, respectful, problem-solving manner to create your memorandum of understanding, regardless of how complex or difficult the issues.
Call me for a free telephone consultation at 510-522-5598.
I serve clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, California. In-person mediation sessions are conducted in my home office at 1810 Eagle Ave, Alameda, CA 94501. If meeting in person is not feasible, we can explore other methods to communicate. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Evening and weekend appointments are available as needed. To send me an email, go to the Contact Us page.
All ethnicities and LGBTQ community welcome.
I look forward to working with you.
Divorce, Domestic Partnership, Legal Separation
Maintenance: spousal support, child support, child custody and child visitation, children's ongoing psychological welfare.
Real and physical community property: reimbursements, capital gains/rollovers, mutual debts and liabilities, division of business, pension and retirement benefits, tax considerations in separation and divorce, health insurance, pet custody and visitation.
Additional Services
Prenuptial agreements, resolution of post-divorce issues, family conflicts, education issues e.g. teacher-administration or teacher-student disputes, estate settlement, business partnership disputes.
Fees
Fees are charged at an hourly rate. An initial half-hour consultation is free. No retainer required. Reduced fees available for those who qualify.
Mediation is a voluntary settlement process which provides a win-win alterative to the adversarial legal system. It is collaborative, issue-oriented, and practical.
An impartial mediator helps the parties clarify their disputes, determine their needs and interests, consider settlement options, and reach fair agreements. Written agreements are made when appropriate.
Mediation is effective even when conflict and anger are intense and communication has broken down.
Mediation gives participants more control over the process and the outcomes:
Mutually acceptable results.
Less stressful than litigation.
Economical.
Relatively fast process compared to legal action.
Reduces bitterness and distrust.
Helps improve communication.
Produces a higher settlement rate.
Is more flexible than litigation.
Is confidential.
“Dr. Doerr successfully reduced the overwhelm in our divorce process. Very professional. Five stars!” Bruce R., El Cerrito, CA.
“It was a very humane and creative process. We overcame potential road blocks smoothly.” Ms. Gail W., Oakland, CA.
“We resolved ten issues in two sessions. The child custody and child support were skillfully mediated.” Thomas T. and Myrna T., Alameda, CA.
“My former partner and I saved a lot of heartache and money. Dr. Doerr’s psychology background really helped. Highly recommended.” Dr. Robert L., Oakland, CA.
“Our memorandum of understanding, as complex as it was, has survived over the years. If you are willing to sit down and talk, his skills and style will get you through the process.” Saul B., Livermore, CA.
“Surprisingly, both of us are attorneys. This alternative method was almost laser-like, resolving some major issues in two sessions.” Michael C., Albany, CA.
“He skillfully crafted a same-gender (gay) divorce memorandum of understanding. The child custody issue though tough was finally resolved. Fine job!” Tina J., Berkeley, CA.
Divorce can be a very stressful, overwhelming experience. There can be significant effects on the mental and physical health of both children and adults. Here are some coping-resources to support you and your family as you navigate this difficult time. I wish you the best. --Dr. Bob Doerr.
1. The Maryland state court system has developed an excellent group of videos on understanding what mediation is, how to prepare for mediation, and how to participate in mediation: What is mediation?
2. Recommendations from the American Psychology Association (APA) on taking good care of yourself and your children during a divorce: APA recommendations.
3. Recommendations from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) on how to talk to your children about divorce: AACAP recommendations:
4. National Institute of Health (NIH) summary of research on effects of divorce on children’s mental health: Divorce and children’s mental health
5. Surviving the Breakup: How Children And Parents Cope With Divorce by Judith Wallerstein PhD and Joan Kelly PhD. “Based on the Children of Divorce Project, a landmark study of sixty families during the first five years after divorce.” Book available online from Amazon.com.
6. Putting Children First: Proven Parenting Strategies for Helping Children Thrive Through Divorce by JoAnne Pedro-Carroll PhD. “Research-based strategies for helping children survive and thrive before, during, and long after divorce.” Book available online from Amazon.com.
7. Divorce therapists specialize in helping families cope with the emotional stress of divorce. They can also help with adjusting to life after divorce. Use Google Search or other Web browser to search online for: Bay Area, divorce therapy.