Why I do what I do & Background

Why

I have worked with hundreds of individuals, couples, and teams so far. All these valuable experiences have taught me one thing: people want to live and work in peace and harmony. Yet everyone finds themselves from time to time dealing with serious differences, and/or 'difficult people'. 

Not many people know how to move through, and past uncomfortable, difficult situations with others. As an ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution)  professional, I am convinced that with insights and skills, most people can get unstuck and move on collaboratively. 

How can I assist you to live an easier (work) life by reducing the resistance you feel towards another person and encounter from others?

By going through a few steps with you. I first listen carefully to you (and/or your team/group). Then individually or in group sessions, I teach you insights on effective communication, and we practice and play with the skills that you'll benefit most from. 

I've been there, stuck, in conflict, blaming others for my situation. And tired of others' resistance. But with my expertise as an attorney, mediator, coach & trainer, I've had (and still have) the privilege to observe and learn from the best, whether those are trained professionals, clients, or just individuals in my life. Over the years, I've gained insights into what works to get unstuck and move toward peace and harmony, and which practical tools work to get where one wants to be. 

I am a good listener. I can step into the world of my client, and figure out what they or their team needs in terms of communication skills and provide just that. 

When my clients gain an understanding of why they are resistant toward certain behaviors/others, and they learn to self-regulate, speak up and listen actively, their resistance disappears, perspectives start to change and opportunities and possibilities become visible and obtainable. My clients finish the training with more clarity, equipped to form stronger and healthier relationships, and with communication skills they can use in everyday life. 

What I teach and coach, are insights and skills that really work. I practice what I teach every day. 

Even though some situations seem tough to resolve, there are always options and opportunities, even if you don't see them now. Becoming clear is the first step to solving a problem. Learning and using skills like active listening and asking effective questions, are doable & effective for every individual and team.  

BACKGROUND

As an attorney in the Netherlands, I have litigated for companies and individuals for almost a decade. Whether my clients won or lost, their needs weren't always met after the legal procedure had ended. Court procedures can be long, inefficient, and costly.  I realized alternative dispute resolution can be the answer to what the court system cannot provide.

Since then I have been making a difference as a certified mediator and facilitator in the Philadelphia PA market for close to a decade.  Coming face to face with the most aggressive of scenarios, I guided my clients to a place of resolution through mediation and facilitation/coaching.  Once parties are willing to talk and ready to listen with my assistance, they're ready to jump into the conflict resolution process and resolve their issues. 

As a Leadership Communication Skills Trainer, I  have delivered many trainings and taught at least 1,000 professionals insights and skills. I provide research-based strategies for various groups of professionals. I am passionate about delivering interactive trainings and having participants leave excited, empowered, and inspired about their gained knowledge and skills. 

SUCCESS RATES

ADR processes have over 80% success rate.* And what's even better: training yourself and your team members in the insights and skills I render, will prevent the need for an ADR process, saving you resources and rendering you an effective, productive, and joyful team. That's 100% success.

*https://www.justice.gov/archives/olp/alternative-dispute-resolution-department-justice