Informal Mediation in the Health Sciences Ombuds Office
The Pitt Health Sciences Ombuds Office offers informal mediation and facilitated discussions to help individuals address concerns and resolve conflicts collaboratively. These conversations take place in a confidential and neutral setting, allowing participants to speak openly and explore mutually beneficial solutions.
Informal mediation through the Ombuds Office is a voluntary process. A visitor must request an informal mediation, and all parties must independently agree to participate before any facilitated discussion can take place. Because participation is entirely voluntary, the ombuds will only move forward once each participant confirms their willingness to engage in the process.
The process is informal and interest-based, focusing on understanding underlying needs, rebuilding trust and improving communication rather than assigning blame or imposing disciplinary outcomes. The ombuds serves as a neutral facilitator to guide the discussion and support constructive problem-solving.
If participants wish to document any outcomes, the Ombuds Office does not assist in this process; however, parties may choose to do so informally by sharing a written summary of their agreement or key discussion points with each other via email or by using appropriate formal channels within their school or program.
Requests for informal mediation should be sent to michelle@ombud.pitt.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When might mediation be helpful?
Mediation can be helpful when communication feels stuck, tense or unproductive, and you would like support having a difficult conversation. Common situations include ongoing misunderstandings, interpersonal conflict, strained working or learning relationships, or differing expectations. You do not need to be in crisis or pursuing a formal complaint—mediation through the Ombuds Office is often most effective early before issues escalate.
Why seek mediation through the Ombuds Office?
The Ombuds Office provides a confidential, neutral and psychologically safe space to explore concerns and options without triggering a formal process. Ombuds mediation is voluntary and focused on understanding, problem-solving and forward-looking solutions rather than assigning blame or determining policy violations.
Why should mediation take place in the Ombuds Office?
Mediation in the Ombuds Office offers a confidential, neutral and informal space where participants can speak openly and work toward resolution without fear of retaliation or immediate disciplinary consequences. In contrast to formal offices such as Human Resources or Legal that focuses on policy enforcement, or potentially determining fault, the Ombuds office focuses on collaborative, interest-based problem-solving rather than policy enforcement or determining fault—helping parties explore options, restore working relationships and identify next steps in a psychologically safe environment.
Is participation in informal mediation mandatory?
No. Mediation through the Pitt Health Sciences Ombuds Office is completely voluntary. The process must be initiated by the visitor, and all parties must independently agree to participate.
What types of outcomes or agreements can result from informal mediation?
Ombuds mediation is voluntary, off-the-record and impartial. The goal is not discipline or investigation, but resolution. This allows for more honest dialogue, creative solutions and flexibility. If participants later wish to formalize an outcome, they can do so through appropriate institutional channels.