From Conflict to Connection: How Leaders Can Navigate Difficult Conversations
Live virtual workshop — December 4, 2025 (12 PM PT/2 PM CT/3 PM ET)
This 60-minute session gives leaders practical, MI-aligned communication tools for navigating difficult conversations with staff. You’ll learn how to reduce defensiveness, strengthen trust, and foster psychological safety—skills you can use immediately
What You’ll Learn
​
-
How to respond to pushback without escalating
-
How to use complex reflections to reduce defensiveness
-
How to create psychological safety in tough conversations
-
MI-aligned micro-skills for coaching staff
-
A simple structure for productive conversations
​
Who This Is For
-
Supervisors
-
Managers
-
Directors
-
HR partners
-
Team leads
​
What’s Included
-
60-minute live session
-
Downloadable reflection guide
-
Q&A
-
Replay included
About Mary Beth
​
Mary Beth Abella, MSW, is a Motivational Interviewing trainer and leadership communication coach with 20+ years’ experience. She has trained leaders, managers, and trainers across state agencies, healthcare systems, universities, and nonprofits—including statewide leadership initiatives in Oregon, PATH leaders in California, and national organizations.