Relational Skills Classes

 

Title: Essential Relational Skills

Instructor: Dr. Mark Olson, LMT
Hours: 20
Online Format: Live/interactive only
Dates:
  • TBA (12:00-4:00 ET)
Description: This interactive, online class is designed to provide participants with fundamental relational tools for optimizing social or  therapeutic relationships.  While an intellectual framework based on neuroscience and psychology is offered to provide a framework, the course consists almost entirely of interactive relational exercises to maximize actual skill learning.

Objectives: By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the role of safety in a therapeutic setting.
  • Be more aware of what makes it personally challenging to be present with another.
  • Stay focused on the present moment in the midst of distracting thoughts.
  • Distinguish between observations and imaginations.
  • Be more comfortable with listening to a speaker without intervening.
  • Track another person’s psychobiological shifts.
  • Keep half of their attention on their own psychobiological condition while keeping half of their attention on another.
  • Describe the social-emotional value of mirroring.
  • Utilize echo reflecting as a communication tool.
  • Define attunement and resonance.
  • Mirror a client’s breathing or sighs.
  • Generate effective Contact Statements in response to what another says.
 ____________
Title: Relational Conflicts and Sociopolitical Human Values
Instructor: Dr Mark Olson, LMT
Online Format: Live/Interactive
Dates: Coming Soon
Description: This class explores how to navigate conflicts stemming from differences in socio-political beliefs. Various communication skills will be outlined and thoroughly practiced with co-participants. In addition, attention will be placed on common human values and how to maintain relationship by keeping relational focus on these shared values. We will explore the values that underlie our sociopolitical beliefs and how to respectfully, compassionately, and effectively navigate discussions with others who have differing beliefs from oneself. Topics include:
  • Interpersonal Fundamentals
  • NVC Speaking
  • Storytelling with Oneself
  • NVC Listening
  • Common Values
  • Developmental Trauma
  • Narcissism
  • Intersubjectivity
  • Seeding Doubt
  • Aggression, Denial, Forgiveness, and Subjectivity
  • Impossible Conversations