Transform Your Conversations
Free six-week workshop series building calmer, more connected conversations using LEAP and Nonviolent Communication.
Build calmer, more connected conversations – even in the hardest moments Supporting someone you care about can be deeply meaningful… and incredibly challenging.
When mental illness struggles are part of the picture, conversations can quickly become confusing, emotional, or tense. Many people find themselves asking:
"What do I say?" "How do I help without making things worse?" "How do I stay calm and protect my own wellbeing?"
This free 6-session workshop series is designed to help you feel more confident, grounded, and effective in these moments.
Using two powerful, evidence-informed approaches – LEAP (Listen, Empathize, Agree, Partner) and Nonviolent Communication (NVC) – you'll learn practical tools to improve connection, reduce conflict, and support both your loved one and yourself. Who is this for? • Family members, caregivers, and friends supporting someone with serious mental illness (e.g., anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, or concurrent disorders) • Anyone who wants to strengthen their communication skills, especially in emotionally charged or difficult situations • People looking for more calm, clarity, and confidence in how they show up in conversations especially when supporting someone
What you'll gain • Practical ways to listen for what someone needs without escalating tension • Skills to de-escalate conflict and strong emotions • Tools for setting boundaries with care and clarity • Approaches to collaborative problem-solving • Strategies for communicating with healthcare providers and support teams • A deeper understanding of how to stay grounded while supporting others
Why attend? Caregiving and support roles can feel overwhelming and isolating. This interactive series offers a safe, supportive space to: • Learn and practice real-world communication skills • Share experiences with others who understand • Build confidence through guided exercises and discussion • You don't have to figure this out alone.
Workshop Details • Dates: Tuesdays, September 15 - October 20 (6 sessions) 1:00PM-2:30PM • Cost: Free • Facilitators: Gregg Taylor & Catherine Strickland
While this series of workshops is complimentary, advanced registration is required to help us manage capacity & prepare materials.
This workshop series is presented by Pathways Serious Mental Illness Society in partnership with the West Vancouver Seniors Activity Centre
Funded by the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program.
