Conflicts are influenced by all the variables that characterize the system of family interaction and functioning and the effects such functioning has on family members. Both divorce mediation and family therapy must operate with an awareness of the family as a system. Although family mediation and family therapy generally differ in their goals and techniques, strategic family therapy uses an approach helpful for the mediation process. Strategic therapy is problem-oriented as is mediation, rather than growth-oriented as are most therapies. Strategic therapy focuses on present, rather than past, problems and is action-oriented rather than feeling-oriented. The therapist, an active director and strategy planner, assumes responsibility for the therapy process and expects the parties to take action to resolve their problems. Strategic therapy builds on existing strengths in the family and defines problems in behavioral terms. Directives are used to help change behaviors and resolve problems. Strategic therapy is brief and intensive, just as is mediation. 7 references.