When someone says they’re a mediator, what image comes to mind? Probably someone who helps people in conflict work through their differences, right? Simple enough. But here’s the thing—mediators are not all the same. In fact, the mediation field is incredibly diverse, even though most practitioners don’t describe themselves beyond the generic label of “mediator.” There are many different […]
Exploring the Diversity of Mediation Read More »
I recently had an interesting conversation with someone who started out by describing their boss as a “narcissistic personality” and who was looking for some advice about how to get them to change their behaviours towards staff. Work with behaviours, not labels The first step is to emphasize the importance of avoiding labelling the boss
When the Boss Is Exhibiting Challenging Behaviours Read More »
In many workplaces, policies around conflict between employees say something to the effect that the person should first try to resolve the matter directly with the person with whom they are in conflict. If that is not successful or not possible, then they should raise the matter with their line manager, and/or a representative from
Can AI act as a conflict management coach? Read More »
When setting up your practice, it’s important to have all your documents in order. Many people don’t prepare in advance and then are in a last-minute panic when the first client turns up and they need paperwork! It’s also important to remember that each client may need different types of paperwork, so you adapt and
TIPS FOR NEW PRACTITIONERS: Getting your documents in order Read More »
One question to think about at the very start is what is your purpose for gathering feedback / testimonials? It is always useful to gather feedback to constantly improve your services, but it’s important not to ask for feedback when what you are really looking for are testimonials for marketing purposes. Transparency is essential. In
Marketing with testimonials Read More »
Who is involved in the coaching relationship? Coaching involves a relationship between at least two people – the coach and the person being coached (who may be called a client or a coachee – recognizing that not all people being coached are technically ‘clients’ of the coach). Coaching may sometimes involve more than two people
The coaching relationship and the coaching space Read More »
Curiosity is more than just a tool for gathering information. While curiosity can lead to an increase in our knowledge, it’s most useful when it also leads to greater understanding. However, curiosity is not just useful because of what it “gets” us, it can also change us, and be a force for meaningful connection and
Curiosity in conflict Read More »
HISTORY OF THE TERM EMPATHY German philosopher Theodor Lipps first introduced the term Einfuhlung (empathy) around 1903 to describe how we should fully appreciate a work of art. His idea was that we should project ourselves into the work and experience it from within, rather than imposing our own frame of reference to interpret the
What is trauma informed practice? There is a lot of talk at the moment about trauma, and the need for a broad range of practitioners to ensure that their practice is “trauma-informed”. This includes anyone who works with people who may have experienced trauma, not just those who provide therapeutic services to survivors of trauma. Having a
Trauma informed practice in conflict resolution Read More »
I’m sure you’ve all heard of the concept of the amygdala hijack. You’ve probably even used it as an explanation for why we sometimes do crazy things in the heat of the moment. Maybe you (or your clients) have even used it as an excuse for bad behaviour! The problem is that while the concept
The myth of the amygdala hijack Read More »
Copyright © 2025 The Conflict Management Academy
With respect for the people of our First Nations and the justice of their claims, the Conflict Management Academy acknowledges their unbroken care for country, since time immemorial. This care extends across all the lands and waters of Australia. We join with those who are of, and care for, country, in paying our respects to Elders past and present.
