Mara has been mediating divorce matters for more than 19 years and has conducted over 6,000 mediation sessions with couples navigating separation. Throughout her career, she has helped the vast majority of clients reach comprehensive, workable agreements without litigation — and in some instances, even supported couples in reconciling.
Her approach is practical, balanced, and future-focused, guiding couples toward sustainable resolutions that feel fair, thoughtful, and durable over time
Our Divorce Mediation approach is a client-centered approach based on the teachings of Carl Rogers (Person-Centered, Client-Center, Rogerian Counseling Theories), who, in my opinion, is the founder of mediation. Mediation is really based in psychology, not law. It’s about helping individuals and couples find the best path and the healthiest way to move forward by giving them a compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental environment to be heard and explore options. We do not conduct “settlement negotiations,” during litigation where sessions usually are conducted in separate rooms with lawyers and litigation strategy is brought into the discussions. Instead, we cut through all that and focus on the couple’s real goals, needs and hopes. In getting down to the basics and building back up, people are able to see their way to workable solutions.
JD Law – University of Texas at Austin School of Law;
MA Professional Counseling – Argosy University;
BA Psychology – University of Texas at Austin
Our firm offers premium, flat-fee divorce mediation services designed for couples seeking a sophisticated, efficient, and private alternative to litigation. Fees vary depending on the complexity of the financial and parenting issues involved, the level of support required, and whether additional professional services are needed during the process.
Unlike traditional litigation, where costs can escalate unpredictably, our flat-fee structure allows couples to move through divorce with greater financial transparency, efficiency, and control. Mediation services may include parenting plan development, financial and property division discussions, preparation of court filings, drafting of settlement agreements and divorce decrees, and coordination with outside financial, tax, business valuation, estate planning, or mental health professionals when appropriate.
Our boutique practice frequently works with high-net-worth and complex-asset matters involving business interests, executive compensation, retirement accounts, substantial real estate holdings, and sophisticated investment portfolios. We also collaborate with clients’ existing financial advisors, accountants, therapists, or other trusted professionals as desired.
All mediators within the firm are actively licensed Arizona attorneys. While we do not represent either party as litigation counsel, our legal and counseling background allows us to guide productive discussions, identify potential issues before they become disputes, and help couples reach thoughtful, durable agreements.
Private consultations may be scheduled through Modern Mediation.
