Allen Conflict Solutions is an integrated practice building peace at home, high performing teams at work, and harmony in community through empathy and practical solutions

Allen Conflict Solutions - Shelley Allen

Most of us are constantly balancing multiple aspects of our lives; each with its own rewards and demands. This can be very difficult and when discord disrupts any part of our life, the others can suffer. For example, many of us have either seen or experienced first-hand how stressors in our home life can take a toll on work. Or, how work worries can impact relationships at home. Similarly, it’s very difficult to maintain healthy, productive relationships at home or work when we’re concerned about issues in a broader community. That’s why Allen Conflict Solutions (ACS) is an integrated practice. We work to provide the tools and services that support the whole person within the context they need.

Humans. As individuals, we have multiple aspects to our lives and we bring them with us wherever we go. Many of us know first-hand how stress from home can take a toll on work. Or, how work worries can impact relationships at home. Similarly, it’s very difficult to maintain healthy, productive relationships at home or work when one is concerned about issues in a broader community. When challenges disrupt any part of our life, the other areas can suffer. Allen Conflict Solutions (ACS) strives to meet people where they are and provide the tools and services that support the whole person within the context they need.

While it may feel overwhelming and upsetting at times, conflict is natural and can be very healthy when handled well. At the most fundamental level, conflict is simply a signal that something isn’t working as it should. So, ideally, one would identify what isn’t working and correct it. If only it were that simple! Perhaps if we didn’t have pasts, emotions, relationship dynamics, biases, and all the other things that make us incredible, interesting, complex, and human, it would be.

As it is, different people have different levels of comfort and skills for dealing with conflict based on their lived experiences. Breakage, and sometimes harm, occurs when conflict exceeds the abilities of the humans involved to deal with it. When people can’t hear one another and fail to search for understanding, they become blocked from finding common ground and from possibilities missing the paths that lead to solutions. Conflict Resolution helps remove the barriers that keep people from connecting and finding solutions.

There are many different types of dispute resolution engagements, and it’s important to find the right one for the situation and individuals involved. At ACS, we lean toward Transformative Restorative Practices, but recognize this may not be the right fit in each case. Every potential engagement begins with a free consultation to:

  • Assess the situation.
  • Provide information about what options are possible, including outside of ACS when applicable.
  • If suitable, propose a potential framework for moving forward together.
  • Ensure all parties are comfortable with the proposed approach.

Conflict is inevitable. How it’s handled can be the difference between growth and harm. Studies have repeatedly shown that healthy, meaningful relationships are a top contributor to a happy life; far exceeding the value of money once basic needs are met. The quality of our lives is determined by the quality of our relationships. So, reach out to see if there’s a better way to handle conflict in your personal life, work, or community.

OUR SPECIALTIES

RESTORATIVE PRACTICES

TRANSFORMATIVE FACILITATION & MEDIATION

CONFLICT RESOLUTION & PREVENTION

DIVERSITY & CULTURAL AWARENESS

RECONCILIATION

FAMILY MEDIATION

DIVORCE MEDIATION

CO-PARENTING &
PARALLEL PARENTING COACHING

CONFLICT COACHING

CONFLICT SYSTEMS DESIGN

COMMERCIAL MEDIATION

EMPLOYMENT & WORKPLACE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

TRAINING

UNIQUE NEEDS CREATED BY:

TRAUMA

MENTAL HEALTH

COGNITIVE PROCESSING

ALIENATION

OUR SERVICE AREAS

AT HOME

Families come in all different shapes and sizes. So do the challenges they encounter throughout the many stages of life. Whether your family is biological or built based on deep bonds, the relationships are fundamental and often form the fabric that holds the rest of life together. ACS offers a variety of tools and services to support individuals in navigating personal relationships.

Allen Conflict Solutions - At Home Mediation

AT WORK

Many individuals spend as much or even more time at work than home. Work often provides another family and sense of self. When there are challenges, this can be very destabilizing and escalate quickly. Not only are relationships and personal identity potentially impacted, but it may also threaten one’s ability to provide financially. ACS offers a variety of tools and services to support individuals in navigating professional relationships.

IN COMMUNITY

“Community” is any group of people drawn together by common interests or needs. These groups can bring a wonderful sense of belonging and satisfaction. However, passion may turn to frustration when there isn’t an agreed upon path for meeting the mission and objective of the group. ACS offers a variety of tools and services to support individuals in working together effectively consistent with the goals of their community.