The Center for Understanding in Conflict

Starting a conflict resolution or mediation practice is both a rewarding and challenging journey. Unlike traditional careers, mediators must create their own path—establishing credibility, building relationships, and finding financial sustainability. In our latest blog article you can explore: ?? The uphill climb of explaining mediation’s value ?? The realities of growing a sustainable practice ?? How the Understanding-Based Approach empowers people in conflict ?? The deep rewards of helping others find resolution If you’re a new or aspiring mediator, this is a must-read! ??? https://bit.ly/41vRU8u ?? What’s been your biggest challenge in building a practice? Share below! ?? #Mediation #ConflictResolution #UnderstandingBasedApproach #MediatorsLife #Peacemaking

?? New Episode Alert! ???? Listen in on The Other Chair as we welcome two leaders in community mediation: ?? Cassie Lively, Executive Director of the Center for Conflict Resolution(CCR) in Chicago, leading efforts to provide free and accessible mediation across Cook County. ?? D.G. Mawn, President of the NAFCM: National Association for Community Mediation (NAFCM), working to amplify the voices of mediators and support local peacemakers nationwide. In this episode, we explore the powerful role of community mediation—how it started, why it matters, and how YOU can get involved. Whether you’re a conflict resolution professional or simply passionate about building understanding, this conversation is for you. ?? Listen now: https://bit.ly/41u4J1V #CommunityMediation #ConflictResolution #Peacemaking #MediationMatters #TheOtherChair

Community Video for February! Divorce mediation isn’t just about resolving disputes—it’s about fostering understanding, preserving relationships, and empowering informed decision-making. But what are the challenges? Join Katherine Miller in this insightful community video as she explores the benefits and limitations of understanding-based divorce mediation. Perfect for legal professionals, mediators, and anyone looking to deepen their conflict resolution expertise! ?? Watch now: https://lnkd.in/ecaxNeA3 #MediationTraining #ConflictResolution #ProfessionalDevelopment #DivorceMediation #UnderstandingBasedMediation #ADR #LegalEducation #MediationSkills #LearnMediation

As conflict professionals, we become great at observing and responding to the words used by parties in conflict.?But there is a whole different level of interaction happening at the same time – that of the parties’ dynamic, i.e., what’s happening at a meta level including what’s their nonverbal communication.? Reflecting our observations of their dynamic back to the parties can help them better understand whether this interaction is working for them and whether it’s a productive way to move forward and sometimes it can provide the keys to unlock the conflict. Join Michelle Exline Minovi and Joy S. Rosenthal on March 11th to learn more about Looping the Dynamic in conflict-driven conversations. #ConflictResolution #Mediation #UnderstandingConflict #LoopingTheDynamic #NonverbalCommunication #ConflictTransformation #ActiveListening #ResolvingDisputes #ConflictAwareness #ProfessionalMediators #EffectiveCommunication #CollaborativeSolutions #ConflictSkills #EmotionalIntelligence #DisputeResolution

?? When conflict gets messy, how do you turn it around? Join conflict resolution experts Catherine Conner and Gary Friedman for a powerful webinar on February 20, 12:00–1:00 PM PST, where they will share advanced techniques for dealing with deception, hostility, and deep-seated animosity in disputes. ?? Learn how to create psychological safety in high-conflict environments ?? Engage parties effectively—even when emotions run high ?? Work through your own internal reactions to better support others Don’t miss this opportunity to transform toxic disputes into breakthroughs! ?? Date: February 20 ? Time: 12:00–1:00 PM PST ?? Online Webinar ?? Register now: https://bit.ly/3CWgoOw #ConflictResolution #Mediation #UnderstandingBasedApproach #MessyConflict #MediationSkills

Charles L. Howard’s A Practical Guide to Organizational Ombuds makes a powerful case for why organizations need independent, confidential, and informal conflict resolution. ??? He lays out how ombuds help individuals navigate workplace disputes while surfacing systemic issues that might otherwise go unaddressed. For those who approach conflict through the understanding-based model, Howard’s insights resonate—especially his emphasis on confidentiality and self-determination. But his book also raises big questions: What happens when conflict stays individualized rather than relational? Does neutrality ever limit deeper transformation? And how much structural change can an ombuds truly drive without decision-making authority? It’s a must-read for anyone thinking deeply about conflict resolution in organizations and the different ways we support people in working through conflict, not just around it. ???? https://lnkd.in/eWf_XJ7J #ConflictResolution #Ombuds #WorkplaceCulture #Mediation #UnderstandingBasedApproach #Leadership #OrganizationalChange

CUC has the privilege of working with highly skilled professionals from across the conflict resolution and mediation spectrum, including seasoned attorneys, corporate and community leaders, and practitioners worldwide. Joy S. Rosenthal, Esq. has been mediating divorce and practicing collaborative law since she started?Rosenthal Law & Mediation?in 2006.?Before going out on her own, she represented children in foster care and in delinquency (criminal) proceedings. Joy also taught family law at the City University of New York School of Law for several years, and developed an online course called?Landing On Your Feet – A Compassionate Lawyer’s Guide to Divorce?for people who are going through divorce and separation.?

?? Struggling with Difficult Conversations? We Can Help. ?? NEXT WEEK: Conflict is a natural part of relationships, but most of us were never taught how to navigate it effectively. Join us for a transformative three-part series, Navigating Difficult Conversations, where you’ll gain the confidence and skills to handle challenging discussions with clarity and empathy. ?? Dates: February 18, March 18, April 16, 2025 ? Time: 12PM – 1:30PM Pacific / 3PM – 4:30PM Eastern ?? Format: Online Led by expert trainers Sethu Laxmi Nair and Melanie Rowen, this interactive course blends guided self-reflection, group discussions, and role-play exercises. You’ll learn: ? How to prepare for a difficult conversation ? Ways to invite others into dialogue and set agreements ? Practical techniques to foster mutual understanding and resolution Space is limited—register now! ?? https://bit.ly/4cZPGR9 #ConflictResolution #DifficultConversations #CommunicationSkills #Mediation #PersonalGrowth

?? Reflecting on Rotary Peace Conference 2025 ?? The Center for Understanding in Conflict is deeply grateful to have been invited to be a part of the Rotary Peace Conference 2025 in Sonoma County’s beautiful wine country. ??? This inspiring gathering brought together extraordinary leaders and peacebuilders, fostering meaningful conversations and innovative ideas to create a more peaceful world. We are honored to have shared in this journey of understanding, collaboration, and growth. A heartfelt thank you to the organizers, speakers, and attendees for making this event such a transformative experience. Let’s continue working together to turn conflict into opportunity and build a brighter future. ???? #RotaryPeaceConference2025 #Gratitude #UnderstandingInConflict #PeaceBuilding #ConflictResolution #rotaryinternational

Divorce is tough, but it doesn’t have to be a battle. Mediation transforms conflict into collaboration, focusing on preserving relationships and fostering mutual respect. ?? For families, it’s about crafting solutions that prioritize emotional well-being and create stability for the future. ?? Instead of a courtroom struggle, mediation offers a space for understanding and hope. ?? ?Read more in “Making the Split: A Path to Healing and Hope through Understanding.” https://bit.ly/4arXQlu #DivorceMediation #ConflictResolution #FamilyMatters #HopeAndHealing #MediationMatters #ParentingThroughConflict #CollaborativeSolutions #UnderstandingInConflict