Compassionate Communication Series


Our Compassionate Communication Training Series is based on the approach created by psychologist and mediator Marshall Rosenberg. The series currently consists of eight courses. Upon completion of the Introduction course, participants may then take any or all of the other offerings.

Introduction to Compassionate Communication

A basic introductory course on Compassionate Communication, an approach created by psychologist and mediator Marshall Rosenberg and utilized around the world. Compassionate Communication is communicating in ways that foster understanding, connection, and compassion. It is not just a set of approaches, but an awareness designed to develop a certain kind of compassionate rapport with ourselves and each other. Approaches include translating judgments into observations, emphasizing needs instead of strategies, replacing thoughts with feelings, and changing demands into requests. Empathy, self-empathy, and authentic self-expression are emphasized. Opportunities to practice through group activities are part of the class. This introductory class is required in order to complete any other training within the Compassionate Communication Series.

A Deeper Dive into Empathy, the Breath of Compassion

Prerequisite: Introduction to Compassionate Communication

This training is intended to support participants in having a deeper integration of empathy. In a supportive, community environment, participants experience challenge, guidance, and support in the practice of empathy and seeing our world empathically.

Enroll

Please visit MyTalent to enroll in any of these courses. Or, email hrdept@ku.edu to arrange training for your group or department.

People at a table in discussion

Diving Deep into Feelings and Needs

Prerequisite: Introduction to Compassionate Communication

Diving Deep into Feelings and Needs takes us to a deeper understanding of the purpose, meaning and implications feelings and needs have in our lives and in the world. We will practice responding and communicating by consciously expressing and intentionally listening with an awareness of our own and other people's needs. 

Handling Conflict Using Compassionate Communication Part 1: Inner Work

Prerequisite: Introduction to Compassionate Communication

This training supports participants in applying fundamental premises and approaches of Compassionate Communication to handling conflict. Focus will be given on how to notice one’s own reactivity to stress or daily workplace challenges, discussing your often unconscious beliefs and core values about conflict, and practicing different techniques to ground yourself and handle emotions and reactivity. This is the internal work of handling conflict.

Handling Conflict Using Compassionate Communication Part 2: Expressing Yourself

Prerequisite: Introduction to Compassionate Communication

This training (in development for delivery in the last half of 2022) supports participants in applying fundamental premises and approaches of Compassionate Communication to handling conflict. Focus will be expressing honestly during conflict and utilizing empathic approaches.

Making Observations & Requests in Compassionate Communication

Prerequisite: Introduction to Compassionate Communication

Learning how to ask for what you want using the Compassionate Communication mindset and tools is a skill that can lead to more satisfying workplace interactions and support your autonomy and choice. Learn the basics of making clear, specific, doable requests of what you want (rather than what you don't want). Also learn how to describe what’s affecting you through making clear observations of behaviors/actions rather than relying on labeling people and focusing on fault and wrongness.

Self-Empathy in Compassionate Communication

Prerequisite: Introduction to Compassionate Communication

This session is designed to deepen your ability to connect with self through the process of self-empathy and self-connection using the Compassionate Communication process.

Additional Opportunities

Compassionate Communication presentation and trainings are also available on request. If you would like to arrange a custom training for your group or department, please contact us at hrdept@ku.edu.