This article focusses on the personal reflections of an experienced family mediator. It looks at how, in 2014, the changed economic environment has impacted on the practice of family mediation, in particular the impact on areas such as option development. The challenge is for clients even where there is agreement between them to find workable solutions acceptable to third parties such as financial institutions. It further looks at the principle of self-determination in a recessionary environment. Many clients are unable to make informed decisions as they await the decisions of third parties. This puts them in a legal and financial limbo which can add hugely to the stress of separation for the parties themselves and their children. Finally it will also refer to the positive change in attitudes to children and how this impacts on the inclusion of children in mediation. It will conclude that the landscape of family mediation in 2014 is far more challenging than it was in 2004.