Session 1 – De-escalating Cycles of Conflict

In this session, marriage and family therapist Jenna Riemersma explains how to manage and resolve conflicts in a way that fosters understanding and compassion. We explore the concept of Internal Family Systems, explaining how our core self is surrounded by different parts that get activated during conflicts.

We discover practical strategies to help you and your children handle conflicts more effectively, and we discuss the importance of recognizing and naming emotions, using deep breathing and smiling to create positive energy, and modeling calm and constructive behavior. These techniques not only help de-escalate tense situations but also teach your children valuable skills for emotional regulation and conflict resolution.