With 25+ years of mediation experience and education, a Juris Doctorate from Seattle University School of Law, 16 years as a former practicing attorney, and decades of business ownership, Alisa brings an unusually deep perspective to every dispute she helps resolve.
Over 16 years of legal practice across a wide range of areas:
Alisa graduated Cum Laude from Washington State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, developing strong analytical, research, and communication skills that have served as the bedrock of her professional career.
Alisa brings an exceptional combination of credentials that set her apart in the mediation field:
Alisa holds the Master Mediator designation from the International Mediation Association (IMA), earned through a rigorous year-long training program in Phoenix, AZ. This is the highest level of professional certification available in the mediation field, reflecting advanced training in conflict resolution, negotiation strategy, facilitation techniques, and ethical standards — as well as extensive practical experience mediating complex disputes.
It is worth noting that the mediation field is largely unregulated — there are no formal educational requirements to practice as a mediator beyond basic continuing education in most jurisdictions, and virtually anyone can call themselves a mediator. This makes voluntary, rigorous credentialing like the IMA Master Mediator designation especially meaningful. Alisa pursued this certification not because it was required, but because she believes her clients deserve the highest standard of professional training and accountability.
Alisa earned her law degree from Seattle University School of Law in 1995, one of the Pacific Northwest's most respected legal institutions. Her legal education provides the foundation for understanding the legal frameworks that surround divorce, custody, property division, and business disputes — ensuring that mediated agreements are not only fair but also legally sound.
Alisa graduated Cum Laude from Washington State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, building the analytical, research, and critical thinking skills that have underpinned her entire professional career.
Alisa is a federally licensed IRS Enrolled Agent, authorized to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service. She earned this credential in 2022 and also holds an Oregon license. This credential is particularly valuable in divorce and business mediation, where tax implications can significantly affect financial settlements. Understanding how asset division, spousal support, and retirement account distribution are taxed allows Alisa to help clients make fully informed financial decisions. She also applies her Enrolled Agent expertise at H&R Block, where she has served since 2021 — keeping her tax knowledge sharp and current.
Alisa completed comprehensive 40-hour mediation training programs in Aberdeen, WA in both 2016 and 2020, supplementing her IMA training and decades of practical experience with structured education in mediation methodology, techniques, and best practices.
Alisa is not just a mediator and attorney — she is also a seasoned entrepreneur and business owner, giving her a practical perspective that most mediators lack:
Founded in 2003, Synergy Relations is Alisa's umbrella company encompassing consultation, public relations, strategic communications, event planning, video production, graphic design, and marketing services. Over two decades of business ownership gives Alisa firsthand understanding of the operational, financial, and interpersonal challenges that business owners face — insight she brings directly to her business mediation practice.
Compass Tax Center, a sister company to Compass Mediation Group, reflects Alisa's IRS Enrolled Agent expertise and offers professional tax services. This dual practice ensures she stays current on tax law and financial regulations that frequently impact mediation outcomes.
Alisa served as Business Development Director for MXTReality, a company specializing in augmented reality and virtual reality products, further demonstrating her range of business acumen and strategic leadership.
Alisa's commitment to justice, advocacy, and community service extends well beyond her mediation practice:
Compass Mediation Group does not provide legal advice or legal representation. Alisa Kharis is a mediator, not a practicing attorney. Her legal background informs and enriches the mediation process, but she does not act as an attorney for any party. Both partners are encouraged to consult with independent attorneys for legal counsel. If you need legal representation, we are happy to refer you to qualified attorneys.
