About Us
Where Science Meets Resolution
Institute of Applied Conflict Resolution and Mediation was founded on a simple idea: conflict deserves a smarter, more human way forward. Built on neuroscience, informed by experience, and grounded in the belief that most disputes can be resolved outside the courtroom, our mission is to create lasting resolutions through empathy, structure, and strategy.
We help individuals, families, and organizations communicate better, resolve conflicts faster, and reach solutions that feel good on both sides. Whether you are navigating family law mediation, workplace disputes, or business disagreements, our mediation services are designed to bring clarity, peace of mind, and long-term results.
Our Approach
At the Institute of Applied Conflict Resolution and Mediation, we use brain-based mediation strategies to support calm, productive conversations that move people forward. Our techniques are designed to minimize resistance, improve understanding, and guide emotional clarity, making us especially effective in family mediation, business conflict resolution, and other complex disputes.
Unlike most traditional mediation attorneys who focus only on legal outcomes, we focus on human behavior. That means fewer misunderstandings, more buy-in from both parties, and outcomes that stick. Every member of our team is trained in neuroscience-backed communication, ensuring consistency in how we help clients find clarity and resolution through every stage of the mediation process.
Meet Carol Barkes
Founder. Mediator. Global Authority in Neuroscience-Based Conflict Resolution.
Carol Barkes founded the Institute of Applied Conflict Resolution and Mediation to offer a smarter, neuroscience-based alternative to traditional conflict resolution. With over 14,000 cases mediated or overseen, and a 95% resolution rate, she is ranked among the top 1% of mediators globally. Her reputation is built on meaningful results and a deep understanding of how people communicate, resolve disputes, and rebuild trust.
Fox News named her the top neuroscience-based conflict resolution expert in the United States, and her groundbreaking work continues to shape how mediation is practiced across legal, corporate, and community sectors.
Career Highlights
- Directed Idaho’s Fourth District Court mediation services, leading a team of 70 mediators and managing thousands of unlawful detainer eviction cases
- Created the Idaho Third District Court’s eviction mediation program
- Currently facilitates eviction court processes for the Nevada Supreme Court, mediating high-volume caseloads in Clark County
- Serves as a court-appointed mediator for multiple state and supreme courts across the U.S.
- Developed scalable mediation models now used in courts across multiple states
- TEDx speaker and keynote presenter at the United Nations
- Adjunct professor and lecturer at the University of Idaho Law School, Boise State University, and the College of Southern Idaho
- Best-selling author of Success Breakthroughs (with Jack Canfield of Chicken Soup for the Soul)
- Named Idaho Woman of the Year twice, and frequently retained for $7,000 to $10,000 keynote engagements by top institutions
Carol’s ability to integrate neuroscience with human-centered mediation makes her a transformative presence in conflict resolution. Whether training legal professionals, advising executives, or guiding families through emotional transitions, she brings empathy, structure, and science to every session.
Take the first step toward a resolution that actually works.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services.