Relationships in general are difficult, and few are taught healthy communication skills that support relating with others.  To that end, I hold a certification in Dispute Resolution studies from Hamline Law School. I help others have healthy relationships and/or fix ones that have gotten off track, whether they be personal, professional or in their community.  

Pre-Marital Education and Marital Discussions (Conflict Resolution Coaching)

According to a survey published in the Journal of Family Psychology, couples with premarital education reported higher levels of marital satisfaction and experienced a 30 percent decline in the likelihood of divorce over five years. While it may be unpleasant to think about having difficult conversations about tough subjects before getting married, they won't be any easier afterward.  In fact, premarital counseling gives couples an opportunity to identify hot buttons, set a strong foundation for expectations in a relationship, and learn ways to communicate, using newer communication techniques when life becomes more challenging.  Some states either require it or offer discounts on wedding licenses to couples who have completed pre-marital education.   The MN requirement is currently 12 hours of pre-marital education and the inclusion of a pre-marital inventory prior to application for a license in order to qualify for the discount.

​For those already married, every couple can benefit from open discussions that are held in a loving way​ regarding difficult subjects.  Sometimes those discussions are best held with a supportive person present, especially if emotions are running high or sensitive information needs to be conveyed.  My style is one that supports a continued relationship.  Our goal will be to find positive resolutions for both parties, aimed at increasing long-term marital satisfaction. 
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Basswood Chalet & Guesthouse

Resolving conflict and communicating is often best done at a neutral location where both parties feel comfortable and as relaxed as possible.  Basswood Chalet & Guesthouse provides a warm, comfortable atmosphere in the heart of the Blue Diamond resort area of New Auburn, Wisconsin. 

Together we meet, talk and help you find resolutions to challenges, gain new skills for successful communication and do so in an environment that fosters peace and unity in beautiful surroundings that help reconnect, rejuvenate and renew. Contact me by clicking below for more information.
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Conflict Resolution - Mediation/Arbitration

Mediation and arbitration are ways for parties to discuss their differences and settle their disagreements.  It can be helpful in employment disputes, marital disputes, neighbor relations, family differences, religious differences, and more.  I hold a certification in Dispute Resolution studies from Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota, and have been listed as a Qualified Neutral Under Rule 114  of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice in both civil and family categories​.  My internship was completed using a transformative model of dispute resolution, which encourages an open discussion between parties in the same room, helping the parties to find their own acceptable solutions rather than separating the parties.  Studies show the transformative model leads to higher degrees of satisfaction among the parties, and increased long-term resolution of the disputes involved.  Please note:  Agreements made during mediation and arbitration may become legally binding if the parties place their agreement in writing.   When considering the binding effect of any agreement, seek legal counsel from a professional lawyer licensed in your area.  Please see my page entitled Conflict Resolution by clicking below:

​Educational Classes, Seminars and Discussions
​My bachelor degree includes many courses in world religions and a minor in Religious Studies, in addition to being a seminary-trained and ordained interfaith minister who has studied multiple faith traditions along the way.  I am available to lead open discussions and give classes or seminars about what different religious paths teach, metaphysical topics, and most importantly, about what we all have in common spiritually and morally. 

​Topics requested in the past have included world religions, angels, mysticism and different forms of meditation.  I can  also lead open forums in which participants learn from each other about their spiritual beliefs.  If you have something in mind, please ask. ​
Ministerial Substitute Services
As a professionally trained, formally ordained interfaith minister, I am able to fill in for organizations who may be between assigned congregational leaders or whose leader may wish to take a vacation.  Please contact me for more information.

​Spiritual Retreats
Couples or individuals wishing to get away for a spiritual retreat can do so at my retreat home, Basswood Chalet & Guesthouse in New Auburn, Wisconsin.  The couple or individual stays in the very private guesthouse that's a fully furnished one bedroom apartment with a complete kitchen, living room with electric fireplace and modern bathroom facilities.  Spiritual guidance sessions with me are held across the courtyard in the chalet.  Basswood Chalet & Guesthouse is located on nearly 10 acres of woods and marsh across from Lower Long Lake in the heart of Blue Diamond resort area.  There are many miles of trails, great fishing in pristine lakes and more to do as well.  Relax, renew and rejuvenate yourself and your relationship regularly to assure it remains healthy and happy for many years to come.  www.BasswoodChalet.com

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In the event your relationship involves any form of current physical abuse or mental illness, please seek help from a licensed professional.  I am not a licensed psychologist nor a psychiatrist.​  Please note I consider myself to be a mandated reporter, meaning I must inform appropriate agencies of any abuse for which I have been informed or witnessed. ​