Catholic Apostolate Center invites you to their event
About this event
Description: Many of us find it challenging to talk about uncomfortable topics, especially when there is potential for offending someone or creating interpersonal conflict. This is especially true with conversations about race and racism. So how do we learn to broach difficult topics and also foster an environment for authentic dialogue in a ministry setting? In the current climate where race, culture and racial dynamics are at the forefront of our society, A. Mechelle Haywood, Psy.D., offers skills for engaging in conversations about racism and other issues of difference.
Participants will:
Increase awareness of their personal comfort level with and fears about discussing racism and other difficult topics;
Learn to apply principles of a transactional communication model in informal conversations; and
Identify practical strategies for facilitating authentic, productive dialogue in a ministry setting.
Reflection Questions:
When was the last time I had a difficult conversation? Did I embrace or avoid the situation?
What feelings and emotions arise when I have to discuss uncomfortable or difficult topics? How does this differ with more comfortable topics?
What are my assumptions about how other people will respond to a difficult conversation?
Hosted by
A. Mechelle Haywood is a licensed psychologist and member of the clinical services department at Saint Luke Institute since 2017. She received her doctorate in psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Washington D.C., campus. Her clinical interests include preventative psychology, community wellness and youth emotional development.
The Catholic Apostolate Center takes its inspiration from the spirituality of St. Vincent Pallotti and achieves its goal of deepening collaboration with dioceses and other organizations by creating formation programs for the New Evangelization through creating resources.
