Hi, I’m Rachel Kennedy.
I live in the Minneapolis area with my kids and pets. I enjoy being active, seeing live music, traveling, and being creative. I geek out about both health and psychology related topics, and I love to learn.
My background includes undergraduate and graduate work in psychology, as well as trauma training including Air Network and the assessment of Trauma and Dissociative Spectrum Disorders. I am certified in administering the SARA (Spousal Assault Risk Assessment) and trained in safety planning for children in both substance abuse and domestic abuse cases through Collaborate Law Institute. I am trained in mediating domestic violence cases through High Conflict Institute. I have experience in advocacy and other work in the domestic violence field, and working in social services with people experiencing severe and persistent mental illness and substance use disorders. In addition, I am a Rule 114 qualified neutral with the Minnesota court system.
My personal story includes a high conflict divorce and post decree issues with children involved. I have personal experience with various types of mediation, most of it negative. I became a family mediator because I know I can provide a healthier and more respectful process than what my family experienced. Watch the video to the right to learn more!
rachel kennedy mediation core vaLUES
respect.
autonomy.
empowerment.
I respect the humanity, experiences, and perspectives of each of my clients, and I invite the same toward myself and others in the room.
I believe in and promote the autonomy of each person and family unit to reach agreements that honor themselves and their own values.
I empower you to take control of your own life and the wellbeing of your family. I promise never to try to sway you or scare you into doing anything. Instead, I will encourage you to do what feels right to you in your unique situation.
Media
Spotify Podcasts
Other media
Ask the Expert: Rachel Kennedy of Rachel Kennedy Mediation
“What is mediation?
Broadly, mediation is a way to resolve conflict, often after harm has already occurred. There are many ways this can be done, and not all mediation is created equal, which we will discuss below.
How does restorative mediation differ from traditional conflict resolution methods, and how can it benefit individuals in recovery and their families?”