- Mediator does not decide the outcome or solution to the mediation process whereas the facilitator has to decide an issue and often issues a directive.

- In mediation, the parties remain in control of the outcome whereas in facilitation, if the parties cannot agree on the outcome the facilitator will make a decision.

- Mediation is a voluntary process which parties can choose to withdraw from; if a court appoints a facilitator and the parties cannot reach an agreement, they have to continue with the facilitation process.