Since 2020, we have trained hundreds in a safer and more respectful approach to conflict resolution.
What is Verbal Conflict Resolution (VCR)?
Verbal Conflict Resolution (VCR) is a conflict resolution program aimed to equip clinical staff with the skills to recognize and intervene in situations with potential conflict. Developed by a creator with 30 years of experience throughout residential group homes, schools, correctional facilities, and hospitals, the program was designed from real world experience with behavioral health individuals that span pediatric to geriatric patients with varying functioning levels. VCRs goal is to not only provide the necessary knowledge and skills to respond in crisis, but also to fill gaps often missed in other Verbal De-escalation courses. Unique characteristics of VCR include: description of mental health diagnosis, explanation of causation due to mental status, applicable to practical situations, and utilization of plain language to apply to a wider variety of students.
How Did We Begin?
The development of a unique course focusing on verbal conflict resolution skills was born out of gaps in knowledge identified by participants from widely used crisis intervention programs. Consistent feedback identified opportunities to understand the “brain” connection to behaviors and target responses to those behaviors with evidence-based interventions. After original course development, VCR began in January 2020 at the college level in a Psychiatric Tech program. Since the inception, VCR has expanded to include a wide range of health professionals and experience levels.
What Does VCR Focus On?
• Define characteristics of the human brain as it relates to behavioral health diagnoses
• Describe the stages of verbal of escalation and de-escalation
• Recognize communication methods for effective verbal de-escalation
• Identify reactions and responses of the individual in the peak of a crisis
• Describe methods to process and debrief individuals after a crisis event