The court provides, either directly or by contract, domestic relations mediation to assist the parties in settling voluntarily a dispute concerning child custody or parenting time. Parties shall not be required to meet with a domestic relations mediator. Voluntary mediation services are available in cases involving custody and visitation. [Michigan Complied Laws Annotated; 552.513].

There is no provision for mandatory counseling in Michigan.

Most counties require divorcing parents with children under the age of 18 to attend a two-hour Start Making It Liveable for Everyone (SMILE) program.