What is Compassionate Communication? Register Here
This initial one day presentation is designed to introduce participants to the two parts of the compassionate communication model: empathetically listening and honestly expressing, using the four steps of the model: observations, feelings, needs, requests. The first step in practicing compassion is to observe and express what we see and hear without judgement. We then guess how others may be feeling or identify what we are feeling in that moment. Our feelings and the feelings of others offer us clues to what we or they may be needing. The acronym H.A.L.T exemplifies this concept; if we are feeling Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired, we may be needing food, understanding, connection, or rest. We can then make requests to get our needs or the needs of others met.
Introduction to Compassionate Communications
Our introduction series, presented over the course of two and a half days, builds on the concepts presented in What is Compassionate Communication? We bring the four step model to life. Facilitators and participants discuss their relationships with their clients, co-workers, family, and friends. We explore the paradox of how we often intuitively apply the principles of compassionate communication while at other times we unconsciously employ communication strategies that do not meet our needs or the needs of those around us. We learn to get our needs and the needs of others met by incorporating the four steps of the model through games, role play, group discussion, and written exercises.
Third Thursdays – Living Compassionately Register Here
Practitioners and those interested in the principles of Compassionate Communication meet monthly to share their experiences of empathetically listening and honestly expressing themselves using the four steps of the compassionate communications model: observations, feelings, needs, requests. These small groups allow participants an opportunity to practice their skills and immerse themselves into one particular part and step of compassionate communications. Every third Thursday, 6:30pm – 8:00pm.