conflict resolution

 
 

I work with:

   

     - Adults,Young people,Human resources,

       Social services,Criminal justice System, police, Education,

       Senior and middle Management.

   

    - With anyone who is willing to explore conflict.


    - I Aim to help empower you to manage conflict at work, at home and in your

      personal lives.


I have been working as a trainer in anger management and conflict resolution for the past ten years. I have worked for the criminal justice and education system, the police, social services, human resources the homeless, and in drug and alcohol residential units, training the professionals and their clients how to work with conflict. I lead retreats on the theme of conflict resolution and also run residential, away days and supervision for professionals, general public and young people. In 2005 I was writer in residence in the largest women’s remand centre in Britain, HMP Holloway Prison, using creative writing as a tool to explore conflict in the women’s lives, empowering them to consider choices. I have currently written a book, Detox Your Heart, a self awareness manual working with anger, fear and hatred.


I am trained in anger management and conflict resolution, telephone counseling, Buddhist meditation and Buddhist philosophy. I am ordained into the Buddhist tradition and have been meditating for the past sixteen years. I have also explored human emotions and behavior through an intensive 15 month Diploma course in Mime and Physical theatre at the Desmond Jones School. I have also committed to my own personal healing.


What I believe –


Conflict is inevitable in our lives. It can be the trigger for a crisis or the opportunity for change. If we become aware of the facts, feelings and our thoughts when conflict arises we may be able to do something different. If we become aware of our triggers, the things that wind us up, it may stop a conflict turning into a full blown argument.


Happiness is a result of developing self love, cultivating kindness towards others, and letting go of resentments and anger in our hearts.


If we allowed ourselves to slow, down and pause it may transform our lives. The art of pausing is the art of healing.


I am available to work internationally, developing conflict resolution and anger management programmes unique to your organization or clients. I also offer online courses working with conflict in our lives.


What my clients have said:


`Valerie is an excellent listener, intuitively intelligent and a skilled drama practitioner.’ Melanie Sharpe, A director  of education



`Valerie possesses a rare ability to connect with young people, listen to their concerns as well as provide strong boundaries in which to  help people to grow and transform their lives. I recommend her work unreservedly.’ Streets Alive, an organization working with the young and homeless


`Valerie has brought with her a clear understanding for the issues facing the girls and women she was working with and demonstrated a skilled approach to facilitating there learning and development. She has a wealth of creative and artistic skills that she is able to draw on, alongside significant experience in leading groups.’ Clean Break, a national organization working with women in the criminal justice system


`The relationship  between creativity and therapy is well known, and Valerie has explored areas which engender a passionate response.’ Dana Captanio – Collage Arts/Holloway Prison


`Attending a retreat on the theme of Detox Your Heart has changed my life. I like myself better and have the tools to help me be creative in conflict’  - Retreatant


'The skills learnt by the children at the three workshops I am sure will continue to serve them well throughout their lives!

- Teacher



'I realise that even I can be a bully and that bullies are unhappy people too’

- Young Person

This is an author passing on the wisdom of hard experience and showing there is a way to get yourself back on track. Her honesty, warmth and humanity are a precious and all too rare commodity” - BBC Radio 4

Detox your heart‘, Purify your toxins of Anger, Fear, Ill Will, Resentment, Jealousy, Hatred, Prejudice, Suspicion, Distrust, Dislike, Envy, Revenge, Frustration, Fear, Self Hatred!!! Cultivate Kindness, Compassion, Joy, Peace, Tranquillity, Equanimity, Stillness, Simplicity, Contentment, Happiness!!!