Karen Aurit

Founder and CEO | LAMFT

Karen Aurit is a visionary leader who created Aurit Mediation to light a path of peace and hope for families going through divorce. As a mindfulness educator and marriage and family therapist, she cultivates a compassionate space for healing and peaceful resolution. As a mom, she understands the delicate balance of caring for our children while also caring for ourselves.

As a law professor at Pepperdine University and Arizona State University, Karen is shaping the future of mediation. She trains mediators to approach conflict with mindfulness, focusing on their strengths and core values.

Together, she and Michael are dedicated to advancing healthy conflict resolution for families. They believe that a healthy divorce is a choice.

UC Berkeley

Certified Mindfulness Teacher

Antioch University

MA, Clinical Psychology

Pepperdine University School of Law

Mediation Certification

Arizona State University

BA, Psychology

Everyone deserves peace.

Every family deserves a peaceful path through divorce — one that prioritizes emotional well-being and the best interests of their children. It’s an honor to guide families toward a healthier future.”

Michael Aurit

Founder and CEO | JD, MDR

Michael Aurit is a leading divorce mediator in America, trailblazing the movement to make mediation the first choice for divorce. He’s guided thousands to their best possible agreements, affirming mediation's profoundly positive impact. A devoted dad and children’s advocate, he's changing the culture of divorce to support healthier people and families.

Michael shapes the future of mediation as a law professor at Pepperdine University and Arizona State University and trains professionals globally. As President of the Academy of Professional Family Mediators, he pioneered online family mediation, expanding its reach worldwide.

Alongside Karen, he champions healthy relationships. They believe that even in the most challenging situations, there's always an answer.

Pepperdine University School of Law

JD, Law and Mediation

Pepperdine University, Straus Institute

MDR, Dispute Resolution

The Boston Conservatory of Music

BFA, Musical Theatre Performance

There’s always a solution.

Every problem has an answer. And the greater the challenge, truly, the greater the opportunity. I love being a divorce mediator because no matter how difficult it seems, people can always reach an agreement. It’s an honor to witness their courage getting there.”

Kennedy Winkfield

Director of Operations | MLS

Kennedy Winkfield is an innovative leader, reimagining divorce mediation. She champions client success through her compassionate and highly strategic approach. Her focus on empathy-driven dispute resolution systems ensures exceptional care for families navigating divorce.

At the heart of The Aurit Center's mission, Kennedy builds operational frameworks that create the divorce mediation experience, fostering peace instead of conflict. Her work empowers the Aurit Mediation team to deliver the highest standard of mediation services worldwide.

Kennedy's leadership reflects her belief that divorce doesn’t have to be a deeply negative experience — she lights a path of peace and hope for families, guiding them to a brighter future.

Arizona State University Law School

MLS, Legal Studies

Grand Canyon University

MA, Mental Health Counseling, 2027

Arizona State University

BA, Justice Studies

Arizona State University

BA, Philosophy

Certified Divorce Specialist

CDS, NADP

Empathy drives effective mediation.

We build our process with deep care for our clients and their children, ensuring every step is empowering and supportive. I’ve always dreamed of being part of a team that values compassion and encourages a continuous growth mindset.”

Michael R. Gangnath

Director of Growth Marketing | PMP, NAVFAC

Michael understands that divorce can be a catalyst for positive change. He’s dedicated to guiding families through this transition with dignity and respect. At Aurit Mediation, he champions a path forward in which disagreement becomes a stepping stone for growth, and conflict transforms into an opportunity for renewal. His commitment goes beyond offering solutions—he seeks to redefine how families approach and navigate challenging times.

His genuine compassion, strategic expertise, and innovative mindset make him a transformative force in conflict resolution.

Temple University

BBA, Legal Studies & Marketing

Bi Handelshøyskolen

MS, Persuasive System Design

University of Oslo

PhD Cand, Persuasive System Design

To see the world

things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other, and to feel. That is the purpose of life"

Jovana Kuvac

Director of Communications | MLS

Jovana Kuvac is a leading advocate for healthy conflict resolution. She's a guiding light, ensuring that families going through divorce feel safe, heard, and supported. Jovana shapes their mediation experience with compassion, intention, and expertise, supporting their long-term well-being.

She bridges legal concepts with human emotions, creating an empowering mediation process tailored to each family’s needs. Her values-based leadership and communication foster trust and authenticity that allow clients to have their most honest and focused conversations.

At the heart of Jovana’s work is her deep care for people — for the families she serves and her Aurit Mediation team.

Arizona State University Law School

MLS, Conflict Resolution

Eckerd College

Mediation Certification

Arizona State University

BA, Justice Studies

Arizona State University

Certificate in Socio-Legal Studies

Peace is always possible, especially when it feels impossible.

Mediation lights a path that turns conflict into resolution. When we feel heard and supported, we reach our best agreements. I’m deeply passionate about this work and grateful for the opportunity to help families as they navigate change with courage.”

Jane McWilliams

Director of Education | BA

Jane McWilliams champions peaceful resolution, transforming conflict into understanding through education. At The Aurit Center, she harnesses her extensive background in psychology and social services into empowering others to resolve conflict with empathy and respect. She believes that mediation paves the way for a more compassionate and cooperative world.

Jane’s creative spirit shines through in her learning initiatives, designed to foster inclusivity, celebrate diversity, and spark lasting positive change. Her insight into how people think and communicate is the foundation of her work.

Jane is grateful to be part of a team that shares her vision for a more peaceful future–one conversation at a time.

University of Missouri, BA

Psychology

Black Hawk College

AA, Liberal Studies

Education and mediation go hand in hand.

The more we understand one another, the less we fear, and the more we build a world where peace is possible.”

Andrew Weber

Director of Mediation | JD

Andrew Weber is one of the nation’s leading divorce mediators. He’s guided hundreds of couples through a healthier divorce. As a skilled mediator and licensed attorney, he empowers clients to confidently navigate their divorce, prioritizing their well-being and their children’s needs.

A strong advocate for self-determination, Andrew knows firsthand that clients reach their best agreements when their process feels open and balanced. His extraordinary ability to provide clarity turns uncertainty into relief, creating an environment that helps people find common ground.

Andrew naturally inspires trust in his clients, who praise his ability to simplify the process and provide unwavering support. He’s dedicated to helping clients reach their best possible agreements with empathy and genuine support.

Arizona State University Law School

JD, Law

Arizona State University

BS, Communications

Mediation gives you the power.

In mediation, you shape your own future. No one decides what’s best for you and your children but you. Seeing families find renewed hope through this process is truly rewarding. I’m honored to be part of their journey.”

Our Mission

We help you have a
healthy divorce.

Reach agreements without a court battle.

From our hearts,

Karen and Michael

You’re not alone — we’re here to help.

Divorce doesn’t have to be a battle. We’ve helped thousands reach agreements and avoid the stress and costs of court.

You know what’s best — and it's not the court system. You can control your own future. Our expert mediators help you every step of the way.

Schedule your consultation to find out how mediation works and get all your questions answered.

Karen Aurit, LAMFT and Michael Aurit, Esq.
Founders and CEOs
The Aurit Center for Divorce Mediation

Karen Aurit, LAMFT and Michael Aurit, Esq.
Meet Your Team

We care about your family
— meet ours.

One family at a time, we help you through divorce.

Karen Aurit, LAMFT

Founder and CEO

Michael Aurit, JD, MDR

Founder and CEO

Kennedy Winkfield, MLS

Director of Operations

Michael R. Gangnath, PMP, NAVFAC

Director of Growth Marketing

Jovana Kuvac, MLS

Director of Communications

Jane McWilliams, BA

Director of Education

Andrew Weber, JD

Director of Mediation
National Experts

Trusted mediators who truly care.

Feel confident with the top divorce mediators in the country.

Our Certified Mediators support you through the legal, financial, and emotional parts of divorce.

We are trusted experts featured in U.S World and Report, NBC, CBS, and ABC News and in publications like Parents Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, Marie Claire, and Men’s Health. We also train mediators and attorneys at Pepperdine University School of Law and Arizona State University Law School.

Simple

Simple

Your process will be simple and easy.

Caring illustration of cap with spinner in black with yellow stripes

Caring

You and your children’s well-being is our priority.

Strategic illustration of hands in black holding paper with yellow check mark

Strategic

You gain thoughtful solutions personalized to your needs.

Honest illustration of two figures in black with yellow conversation bubble

Honest

You can trust in a process rooted in integrity.

What Our Clients Say About Us

“They made a not-so-easy process seem almost effortless.”

Not only is it their knowledge of the process, but it's the way they made me feel during the whole thing.

— Brittany F.

“...highly recommend…”

I would highly recommend The Aurit Center to family and/or friends in need of their services. Michael is truly a professional, and he handled our case with compassion and understanding. During such a difficult life event, Michael and his staff truly made my experience bearable. They are easy to work with and always demonstrate efficiency and courteous attitude. Thanks to all of you for guiding me through the divorce mediation process.

— Dylan D.

“Truly five-star service all the way.”

The patience and kindness that was given to me throughout the process made me feel at ease. I felt like family.

— Patrick F.

“They made a not-so-easy process seem almost effortless.”

Not only is it their knowledge of the process, but it's the way they made me feel during the whole thing.

— Brittany F.

“...highly recommend…”

I would highly recommend The Aurit Center to family and/or friends in need of their services. Michael is truly a professional, and he handled our case with compassion and understanding. During such a difficult life event, Michael and his staff truly made my experience bearable. They are easy to work with and always demonstrate efficiency and courteous attitude. Thanks to all of you for guiding me through the divorce mediation process.

— Dylan D.

“Truly five-star service all the way.”

The patience and kindness that was given to me throughout the process made me feel at ease. I felt like family.

— Patrick F.

Get your questions answered.

How is The Aurit Center unique?

We believe families can divorce peacefully, focusing on the well-being of their children. We help you avoid court to save you time and money. Read more about what makes our mediators unique.

What is mediation?

Mediation is a less stressful, affordable way to divorce. You never have to go to court and you get to decide what’s best for your family, not a judge. Our skilled mediators help you with every part of the process, like dividing assets and debts, spousal support, and child custody.

How does mediation work?

1. Free Consultation: We talk with you, explain how mediation works, answer your questions, and give you a personalized flat fee.

2. Reach Agreements: Your mediator helps you talk about all important topics. They will explain the law and work with you to create agreements that fit both of your needs.

3. Complete your process: Your mediator puts your agreements in writing, and helps you finalize your process. Learn more about how mediation works.

What are the advantages of mediation?

Mediation helps children, saves time and money, is private, reduces stress, focuses on solutions, and keeps you in control.

Are mediators attorneys?

Some are, but as your mediator, they don’t take sides. They give legal information, not advice. During mediation, they will give you a list of lawyers in your area who can give you legal advice if you would like.

How do we get started?

Getting started is simple. Just schedule a free, online consultation. You’ll talk with one of our friendly mediators who’ll explain how everything works, answer your questions, and help you decide if mediation is right for you.

If you want to talk with someone before your consultation, our helpful team is just a phone call away at 888-572-7302. They can answer your questions and help you schedule your free consultation.

To learn more, check out our article: How to Prepare for Divorce Mediation.

How do I talk with my spouse about divorce?

It's often helpful to start with an open and honest  conversation. Share how you feel and why you want a peaceful process. For tips, read our article How to Talk with Your Spouse About Divorce.


When you're both ready, the next step is to schedule a free consultation. This meeting won't start the divorce – it's just a chance to learn about mediation and see if it's a good fit.

What if we're fighting a lot?

That’s expected, and mediation can still work! Our skilled mediators can help you through any challenges.

Important: If you are in danger, call 9-1-1 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

We care about the safety and well-being of all families. We believe every person deserves to feel safe and respected.

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