Erickson’s work focuses on moving away from litigated, adversarial divorce processes toward peaceful, client-centered conflict resolution. His approach emphasizes: Systemic Perspective: He treats mediation as a way to address the emotional and psychological chains of divorce, rather than just treating it as a single legal event. Innovative Reframing: He was among the first to advocate for creative solutions such as parenting plans instead of traditional custody battles, the use of joint checkbooks to manage child-related expenses, and other strategies to avoid impasse. Interdisciplinary Approach: Along with his wife and co-author, Marilyn McKnight, he founded the Erickson Mediation Institute (EMI) in 1977, where they provide training that combines legal knowledge with psychological and "people" skills.