Nonviolent Communication

Nonviolent Communicationsm (NVC), developed by Marshall Rosenberg, guides us to reframe how we express ourselves, how we hear others and resolve conflicts by focusing our consciousness on what we are observing, feeling, needing, and requesting. It is a tool that leads us toward a quality of connection among people where everyone’s needs are valued and get met through compassionate giving—out of the joy of contributing to another human being.

I have found nonviolent communication to be extremely helpful in clearer and more accurate expression. Additionally, the use of nonviolent communication bypasses many of the standard miscommunications and perceived offenses of standard conversation, facilitating information flow without argument. Interestingly, the use of nonviolent communication may also make the speaker appear more charismatic and persuasive.

Most of us have been taught to communicate passively, critically, or manipulatively––and that’s so normal to us that we don’t even realize we’re doing it. That is, until we find ourselves feeling powerless to get our needs met, repeating the same conflicts with those we love, and feeling alone or trapped in our relationships. The nonviolent framework provides a systematic approach by teaching us to be present to our own needs, feelings, and requests without blaming others or internalizing shame.

NVC is the practice of making an observation, expressing a feeling, then a need and making a request. Using NVC takes the charge out of communication which can be so painful and threatening to the survival of the relationship. It allows people to take ownership of their experience and not direct their feelings towards others, which usually only escalates conflict and leads to breakdowns. Utilizing NVC makes hearing one another much easier by staying calm & cool.

NVC is the practice of making an observation, expressing a feeling, then a need and making a request. Using NVC takes the charge out of communication which can be so painful and threatening to the survival of the relationship. It allows people to take ownership of their experience and not direct their feelings towards others, which usually only escalates conflict and leads to breakdowns. Utilizing NVC makes hearing one another much easier by staying calm & cool.

Do you want to resolve conflicts - with yourself and others - in ways that honor your deepest needs? Do you want solutions that work for you and also meet the needs of others? Nonviolent Communication is about how to make that happen. It's about creating the kind of relationship that helps to meet, or at least honor, everyone's needs. It doesn't always get us what we want, but it greatly increases the chances of truly satisfying our underlying needs.

When I see women or couples in abusive situations, many times things have escalated at home. When people are angry, or feel they are being verbally attacked, they may start to lose control and lash out at the other person. The abuser, who expects to be the one in charge, may lose his temper, go from verbally attacking to physically harming the other person. This may occur by his or her throwing objects, or hitting them. My expertise is in helping people communicate without resorting

When working on creating better relationships with partners, colleagues, or family members, non-violent communication is essential. I'll introduce the basics, you'll practice, and begin implementing it in your own life.

I believe the way we communicate is very important. The words we choose and how we say them NVC is a way to express our needs and ask for what we want without blaming or accusing the other person. Learning to express our needs in a way that others can hear and receive and maybe even understand and acknowledge their own needs can make relationships flow much better.

I was introduced to Nonviolent Communication (NVC) about 17 years ago and have been drawing upon the practice ever since. NVC is a way of perceiving one's self, one another and the world with empathy--truly listening with an open heart. I am inspired by NVC's stance that humans share common needs. In my work, I listen for those needs; to be understood, to have choice, or be considered, to name a few. Learning to connect with our feelings and needs creates space for healing.

I have 10+ years of practice with NVC. It has shaped how I think and interact in my personal life as well as how I understand clients.

M.A. degree in Conflict Studies and Dispute Resolution

Nonviolent Communication is the reason I became a therapist and the foundation of my work. I have completed several intensive trainings in NVC both in-person and online.