Innovative Conflict Resolution

I am a mediator and conflict coach based in the Salem, Oregon area.  Besides being a trained mediator, I have over twenty years experience investigating and negotiating insurance claims in California, Oregon and Washington.

Working With Conflict: Conflict Coaching and Workshops

I have worked with conflict for many years, both professionally as a claims specialist and as a member of several non-profit boards, and have been involved in training and mentoring for many years.

I am currently developing a 3-hr workshop called Working With Mediation (for Fun and Profit), which is designed for business teams, non-profit / church boards, or other groups with a desire to avoid needless problems, save time and improve functionality, productivity and effectiveness.  The workshop is also great for individuals who wish to improve their skills in dealing with people and working with conflict.

I am also available for one-on-one or group coaching.

You can look at conflict from three perspectives: Before, during, and after.  Most people deal with conflict after it has “gone bad” and they find they need assistance. The other approach, which I personally recommend, is to approach conflict before it goes bad.  Coaching can be of benefit in all situations, even during a mediation process or after something has “blown up.”  It is never too late to learn conflict management skills.

Mediation, a.k.a. Conflict Resolution

During my years resolving insurance claims, I participated in literally hundreds of mediations of all shapes and sizes, sometimes being involved in multiple mediations at the same time (it’s difficult, but it can be done!).  Issues I’ve been involved in include:

• Construction Defect
• Toxic Tort / Environmental
• Non-Profit
• Product Liability
• Intellectual Property
• Real Estate disputes
• Business disputes
• Premises Liability
• Professional Liability / Malpractice
• Landlord / Tenant disputes
• Homeowners liability
• Auto accidents

While many of the principles of negotiation and conflict resolution remain the same, each dispute has its own unique and often subtle nuances that present challenges to be dealt with. That’s why I chose the name Innovative Conflict Resolution – often seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with a little creativity and some hard work.  For more thoughts on this subject, check out One size does not fit all.

Throughout the years, I have gained a good understanding of both the negotiation and the mediation process, and have learned that the best approach to resolve disputes is one which is flexible and adaptable, explores motivations and issues which may not be patently obvious, and calls for the parties to invest themselves in the outcome.  For more information on what mediation entails, see What is Mediation?

I am not an attorney, and I do not provide legal advice; if I think your situation is such that you need legal advice, I will certainly tell you.  My degree is in Business Administration, with a concentration in Real Estate.

On the personal side, I live in Keizer, Oregon with my wife, three children and one cat. In my spare time I drink coffee, study philosophy and theology, write, play guitar, fence (not as much as I should), and work on my photography skills.

Feel free to contact me at alden@icresolution.com should you have any questions.