I was a social worker and family therapist for over 15 years. I worked with kids and families in school-based prevention and mental health programs, as well as group homes and detention facilities. I often found myself working with families in crisis. I was frustrated by the lack of resources available for families dealing with the normal struggles associated with parenting and adolescence.

While therapy can be useful in dealing with a variety of mental health issues, therapists often lack the skills necessary to help families resolve everyday conflict. I was trained in both basic mediation and family mediation in 2002 by the Benton Franklin Dispute Resolution Center. I soon completed the certification process and started practicing mediation, working primarily, at that time, with divorcing couples. I was amazed at the power of the mediation process to help people resolve even the most bitter disputes. I knew that I had found my life’s work.

I have since devoted myself to the study of nonviolent communication, which became the focus of my doctoral research. I find that interest-based mediation and nonviolent communication are complementary methods. I combine the two in a process I call Empathetic Conflict Resolution. This process provides an opportunity for both parents and teenagers to be heard and understood, identify needs and strategies, make requests and come to agreement around areas of concern.

I am honored to facilitate this process for families struggling with the transition to adulthood. My intention is to help both parents and teens develop new ways of communicating that honor the family and foster connection. As a parent who survived the teen years and now treasures the relationship I share with my 26 year old, I know that there is nothing more important than the bonds that hold our families together.