About Us
Founded in 1977 by Stephen Erickson, J.D., and Marilyn McKnight, M.A., Erickson Mediation Institute (EMI) offers a safe, confidential, economical and fair process to arrive at a successful mediation settlement.
EMI was the first divorce mediation firm in the Midwest, and continues to be one of the largest private, full-time and full-service mediation firms in the country. Steve and Marilyn still own the firm, practice mediation, and have provide mediation training.
In 1980, Steve conducted the first 40-Hour Divorce Mediation Training in the country in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and also co-wrote the manual and co-designed the curriculum for that training, the core of which is still used today around the country and abroad. EMI has since trained thousands of professionals including judges, pastors and mental health professionals throughout the US, Canada, England and the Netherlands.
EMI is located in Bloomington, MN, a short distance from Minneapolis and the Minneapolis/St. Paul International airport.
- 1977 – Steve and Marilyn were part of a small group of people in the United States who began mediating divorces, based on the teachings and philosophy of Jim Coogler.
- 1977 then the third private mediation practice in the country, and is now the longest-operating mediation firm in the country.
- In 1980 conducted the first 40-Hour Divorce Mediation Training in the country in Fort Lauderdale, FL
- In 1980 co-wrote the manual and co-designed the curriculum for for the first divorce mediation training, the core of which is still used today in 40-hour mediation trainings around the country and abroad.
- In 1981, Steve co- founded the Academy of Family Mediators, the first professional organization of mediators and at the time the largest family mediation organization in existence.
- Over it’s history, Erickson Mediation Institute has trained thousands of professionals including judges, lawyers, pastors, and mental health professionals throughout the US, Canada, and internationally.
- Both Steve and Marilyn regularly teach at various universities, law schools, and at international conventions.
Steve and Marilyn still regularly meet with couples in divorce mediation services in Minneapolis, the Twin Cities, and throughout Minnesota and the country.
For More Info Or To Setup A Free Consultation Call
(952) 856-3230
To Contact Us About Divorce Mediation Or Other Mediation Services
Erickson Mediation Institute
3600 American Blvd West, Suite 105
Minneapolis, MN 55431
(952) 856-3230
A Few Testimonials
“Just a note of thanks for working with us. It has been quite peaceful since we met and I believe that the time spent at the table with you made it all possible. We made real progress.” -Linda G.
“I truly believe the only reason we [my former spouse and I] are good friends today is because you showed us the way. Your friendly professional and caring manner got us through a very stressful, difficult time with dignity. For all this I am forever grateful.” -Dan R.
“Thank you again for your help in shaping a new life. Your help was essential in ‘peacefully’ ending a marriage and establishing a workable relationship centered on raising our children.” -Chris S.
“You did a wonderful job on my mediation and you will hold a special place in my heart. You and your team worked very hard on our case. As I get on with my life it will have been made better because of you. I just can’t thank you enough. I want you to know that you have a special gift and are very talented..” -Doris E.
“You both have worked tirelessly on behalf of conflicted, exhausted, bewildered couples for decades. Their children, friends, and extended families have immensely benefitted from your efforts. They have been able to move on with more productive lives, untethered of the old, destructive conflict styles. Their lives are more at peace because of your wise insights, creative innovations, and dogged determination to get the message out. It has been an honor to walk alongside you at brief moments of your journey.” -M.S., Therapist & Colleague