Our approach is that parties can work together to find the best solution by understanding their own views, the other’s views and their practical reality.  Woven into our training is transforming our emotions and opinions into sources of empathy, connection, and understanding as a means to bringing together parties in conflict. Our vision is that people in conflict will engage in authentic conversations that build understanding between them and our mission is to train professionals and community members in the skills and self-awareness needed to bring understanding to conflict-driven conversations.

In the United States and abroad, we have trained more than 10,000 nonprofit and corporate leaders, lawyers, law teachers, judges, human resources personnel, mental health providers and other professionals in this method.

We offer a diverse range of programming throughout the year, from our flagship 40-hour Working Creatively with Conflict conflict resolution and mediation to advanced specialized training events, a bi-annual teacher training cohort, monthly webinars, and more.

Our Inside Out: Self-Reflection for Conflict Professionals is for those who want to learn how to use self-reflection to help their clients by building an understanding of emotions, experiences, and biases that open them to empathy. Our Real Talk program, developed after years of difficult conversations about race, creates safe and effective spaces to dialogue about race and build relationships. Whether you’re looking for specialized topics to build on your mediation skills, want support from fellow practitioners, or seeking to start or expand your mediation practice, our advanced programs will help you grow your skills.

Our monthly webinar series provides practical insights and advice for conflict resolution professionals looking to continue developing their skills in bringing parties in conflict together. Our yearly membership program is for people who want ongoing support in the Understanding-Based Model and their conflict resolution work. Membership includes monthly webinars, discounts, and more.