Compassionate Communication: Speaking and Listening Across Difference

Drawing from mediation theory, and principles of “Nonviolent Communication” this interactive workshop presents a four-step method of conversing – and understanding - designed to enhance connection and minimize defensive and unproductive conflict escalation. We will review a variety of communication forms (that we all use daily!) that impede understanding and then outline the compassionate communication method. This method, in its simplest form, includes:

1. Observing without evaluating

2. Identifying and expressing feelings

3. Acknowledging the needs underlying those feelings

4. Requesting that which would enrich life using positive and respectful language

Importantly, this approach is both a method of speaking and understanding. We will also discuss the importance of listening for feelings and underlying needs and responding to those needs, without being distracted by imputations of judgment and blame. While this workshop will present the method in short exposition, we will spend most of our time together in small groups practicing these techniques.

This workshop will be led by Ellen Waldman. Ellen is the Dispute Prevention Specialist at the International Institute for Conflict Prevention and Resolution (CPR). Prior to her current role, she was a law professor who directed a court-connected mediation program and taught first year doctrinal courses. In the area of dispute prevention and resolution, she writes, trains and consults in a broad range of cases. Former chair of the International Mediation Institute’s ethics committee, and task-force member for the California judicial council’s working-group on training requirements for court-connected mediators, Waldman has been deeply involved in policy questions relating to the qualification and ethics training of mediators. She has published more than 25 articles on numerous dispute resolution topics and crafted the first book-length treatment of ethical dilemmas in mediation, entitled Mediation Ethics: Cases and Commentaries.

People of all identities are welcome to participate. Stevens does not discriminate against any person on the basis of sex, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.