Archived: The ARTful Conversations Clinic

Communication is a big part of our daily lives – in the workplace, in the community and at home. Yet we sometimes find ourselves unable to express what we intended or needed to say. Perhaps this is because we are reluctant to offend the other person, or we don’t want to escalate a situation. At the National Conflict Resolution Center (NCRC), we understand the desire to avoid conflict is natural. That's why we developed The ARTful Conversation, an interactive workshop that helps participants learn how to communicate their needs in a way that builds relationships, rather than hurting them. This workshop uses real examples, developed with the participants in mind, to help them practice the ARTful Conversation structure in a practical way. They gain a deeper understanding of how others perceive and process conflict. They also learn how to adapt their own style to work more effectively with others, in all settings. 

By the end of this clinic:  

1. Participants learn and practice four intervention techniques that they might use with the person responsible for the concerning behavior 

2. Participants discuss how and when communication with the Target of unwanted behavior is warranted. 

3. Participants gain a better understanding of the point of view of the Target, and practice supportive communication skills that are practiced.