Capitol NVC

Nonviolent Communication, also known as Compassionate Communication, is a set of tools designed to help foster compassion and understanding both within ourselves and others. These tools can be used therapeutically, in conflict situations, or in everyday conversation.

NVC delineates four components of communication:

1) Observations free of evaluations;

2) Feelings straight from the heart;

3) Needs, values and longings; and

4) Requests expressed clearly in positive action language.

We are trained to make careful observations free of evaluation, and to specify behaviors and conditions that are affecting us. We learn to hear our own deeper needs and those of others, and to identify and clearly articulate what we are wanting in a given moment. When we focus on clarifying what is being observed, felt, and needed, rather than on diagnosing and judging, we discover the depth of our own compassion. Through its emphasis on deep listening—to ourselves as well as others—NVC fosters respect, attentiveness and empathy, and engenders a mutual desire to give from the heart. The form is simple, yet powerfully transformative.

To read more on Nonviolent Communication, you can check out Basics of Nonviolent Communication (PDF) or visit our External Resources. To learn even more, take one of the workshops or classes listed under Upcoming Events.