Mediation is usually scheduled for one full day.  It can either take place in-person in a boardroom all together, or via Zoom, with each party and the mediator joining from their own quite, private location.  Mediation always includes the mediator, and each of the parties, and can sometimes include lawyers for the parties, as well as additional experts to provide information about financials or the needs of the children.  At the start of mediation, everyone works together to determine what topics will be discussed and in what order.  Ground rules may be established, such as respectful communication and staying solution-focused.  The trained mediator facilitates discussions about each issue to help the parties come up with solutions and reach an agreement in their own terms.  If agreements are reached, they are written down and collected so they can to into a separation agreement that each party will sign.