From Tension to Transformation: A Coaching-First Approach to Conflict Resolution

Conflict is inevitable—but what if your response to it could actually make your team stronger? In this engaging and practical session, discover how a small but high-impact internal consulting team turns workplace tension into a catalyst for growth. By combining personalized coaching with thoughtfully facilitated conversations, they’ve created a replicable, people-centered model for resolving conflict in a way that builds trust, empathy, and accountability.

You’ll learn how this approach starts with one-on-one coaching to increase self-awareness and clarify personal needs and goals. Then, through skillfully guided dialogue, individuals are invited to surface tough issues in a safe and constructive environment. The result? Real resolution—not just temporary fixes—and stronger working relationships on the other side of conflict.

We’ll walk you through the full arc of the process, including:

• Setting the stage with individual coaching and preparation
• Designing and facilitating impactful conflict conversations
• Supporting sustainable outcomes with post-conversation follow-up

Whether you’re a leader, an HR professional, or an internal consultant, this session will equip you with tools to help your colleagues move from tension to transformation.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Describe a coaching-first framework for conflict resolution and how it builds trust and accountability
• Identify the stages of an effective conflict resolution process, from individual prep to follow-up
• Apply coaching techniques to help individuals reflect on their role in conflict and clarify desired outcomes
• Facilitate or support conversations that promote empathy, understanding, and mutual problem-solving
• Reframe conflict as an opportunity for individual and team growth

About our presenter: Kisha Russell (she/her) is a well-versed organizational strategist with over 12 years of experience in Professional and Organizational Development. With a degree in Business Administration focused on Human Relations and certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for HR from Cornell, she brings a bold, innovative approach to building inclusive workplace cultures. Kisha’s career spans from global training in the Biotech sector to leading transformative initiatives at Contra Costa County, where she spearheads programs that include executive coaching, leadership development, and dynamic team services. She believes learning should never be boring or stuck in the "same old, same old." For her, it’s all about breaking the mold—think all the colors in the rainbow, no limits, no boxes! Her motto? "Be new, be bold, be you!" Forget playing it safe—go out there, shake things up, and create something fresh, fearless, and uniquely yours! Outside of her professional accomplishments, Kisha is a proud mother of three: a daughter following in her public service footsteps, a son excelling academically at Prairie View A&M with aspirations of becoming an investment banker, and a 13-year-old who’s convinced that YouTube is a full-time career and refuses to be seen without a snapback cap—because apparently, bad hair days are every day. Whether she’s coaching leaders, designing game-changing learning experiences, or inspiring the next generation (both at work and at home), Kisha is all about pushing boundaries and unlocking potential. With a passion for people, processes, and possibility, she’s on a mission to transform workplaces with bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and a fearless approach to growth.

If you work for a member agency, but do not have a login, please create an account and request member access. You must register with your work email address. 

Registration will close on September 21, 2025, or when all seats have been reserved. 

The early registration deadline is August 17, 2025.