Dialogue Garden
“Empathy is a respectful understanding of what others are experiencing.” – Marshall Rosenberg
Marshall Rosenberg believed that it is our nature to enjoy giving and receiving in a compassionate manner, from the heart. He was preoccupied with answering two questions:
What happens to disconnect us from our compassionate nature, leading us to judge others and behave violently?
What allows some people to stay connected to their compassionate nature even under trying circumstances?
NVC, at the surface, is a specific approach and practical tools to communicate with ourselves and each other. These are an expression of a deeper consciousness of interbeing and shared humanity that allows natural compassion to flourish.
The training structures outlined below are examples of models I’ve used in the past. If you have specific needs or preferences, please contact me to discuss how we can tailor the training to suit your requirements. For instance, we could arrange a weekend training, retreat or other customized formats to better fit your ideas.
Trainings can take place in my home in Katwijk aan Zee, your home, schools, and retreat spaces.
Basic Training
5 Sessions, 2 hours each or 10 hours
In this training, we’ll cover:
How some language patterns can distance us from our natural compassion.
Ways to communicate authentically and stay connected with others.
Methods to express ourselves without judgments, criticism, blame, or demands.
We’ll explore Marshall Rosenberg’s four steps for building compassionate connections: Observation, Feelings, Needs, and Requests. We’ll also dive into the power of empathy and practice using these tools with role-playing scenarios. I find the power of Nonviolent Communication is best experienced through direct application.
Advanced Training
5 Sessions, 2 hours each
This training is for those who want to continue exploring the world that can open up with Nonviolent Communication after the basic course. Depending on time and wishes of participants, we will further apply the tools we learned to real live situations and explore topics such as:
Deep Listening
Navigating Demands
A Liberating Approach to Guilt
Embracing Effortlessness
Exploring Needs Through Meditation
Preparing and Practicing YOUR Dialogue
The Practice of Giving and Receiving Appreciation
Dealing with Anger