When a social worker resolves disputes between clients and other parties, they are acting as a:

When a social worker resolves disputes between clients and other parties, they are acting as a mediator. In this role, the social worker facilitates communication and negotiation between conflicting parties, helping them to find a mutually acceptable solution. This mediation process is crucial as it promotes understanding and collaboration, allowing parties to express their needs and concerns in a structured environment.

Mediators do not take sides or make decisions for the parties involved; instead, they guide the process of negotiation, ensuring that each party has an opportunity to voice their perspective. This is particularly important in social work, where the clients may face complex relational issues and need assistance in finding common ground.

While being a resource broker involves connecting clients with necessary services and an advocate supports clients' rights and interests, those roles do not encompass the conflict resolution aspect inherent in mediation. Similarly, a counselor typically focuses on providing emotional support and guidance, often addressing individual issues rather than mediating disputes between multiple parties. Hence, the role of mediator is distinctly characterized by the facilitation of dialogue and resolution in disputes, making it the correct answer in this context.