Community Boards’ Conflict Resolution Clinics are intensive, two-hour workshops designed for both new and experienced conflict resolution practitioners, attorneys, HR managers, specialists, and other interested individuals. Led by seasoned professionals, these clinics cover an exciting variety of topics and conflict resolution and restorative justice practices.
2026 Conflict Resolution Clinics
OCTOBER
Turning Differences into Resources for Growth
Systems-Oriented Conflict Resolution
With John O’Grady
October 15, Thursday, 5:30-7:30pm PDT
CB Member: $25 | Public: $45
Live Interactive Workshop on Zoom
Registration closes on October 15, 5:00pm PDT
For mediators, differences aren’t the problem — how people relate to them is. John’s session invites you to explore conflict from a systems perspective, offering a fresh lens that complements the tools you already have.
Rather than treating differences as obstacles to smooth over or fight about, we’ll practice Functional Subgrouping — a method for helping parties recognize differences as resources rather than threats. It’s a practical addition to any mediator’s toolkit, especially in disputes where emotion and identity run high.
You’ll leave able to:
- Help parties contain reactivity when differences surface
- Free up energy in the room for creativity and connection
- Move disputes toward resolution by surfacing common ground
- Strengthen your ability to guide parties toward new, mutually workable solutions
MCLE Credits
This course is approved by the State Bar of California for 2 MCLE credits for the Recognition and Elimination of Bias in the Legal Profession and Society (provider #9323).
John O’Grady
John O’Grady has been training with The Systems-Centered® Training & Research Institute since 2016. Every day, John helps people navigate some of the most consequential conversations in their lives. As a San Francisco-based trust and estate lawyer and mediator, he guides families through high-stakes, emotionally charged disputes. He received the Bar Association of San Francisco’s 2020 Crystal Award for mentoring new lawyers and advancing diversity education. Learn more about John at www.ogradylaw.com.
After registering, you will receive the Zoom information by email.
Clinic Cancellation & Transfer Fees
If you cancel more than 24 hours before the clinic start time, there is a $7.50 cancellation fee. This fee will be waived one time if registration is transferred to a subsequent clinic that begins within twelve months of the training start date. No refunds for cancellations 24 hours or less before the clinic start time.
QUESTIONS?
Trainings: Liz Gewirtz, Interim Mediation and Restorative Justice Coordinator
lgewirtz@communityboards.org
General inquiries: Jim Garrison, Communications Director, jgarrison@communityboards.org