Right Use of Power is a dynamic way to explore issues of ethics and power, both personal and professional. This study can be profoundly restorative and empowering. This approach brings heart and soul to ethics, and builds sensitivity and awareness to the use of power and influence.

The core aspects of the right use of power are covered through the four dimensions of the power spiral: Guidance, Awareness, Accountability, Empowerment. These dimensions are presented both didactically and through self-study and small group processes. Depending upon the length of the program you choose, you will increase your awareness and skill in the following areas:

Informed Use of Power: Codes and Guidelines

• a working knowledge of ethics codes and contemporary ethics issues
• a felt sense of the experience and impact of the power differential in positions of trust
• increased ability to access and use information gathered from clients, colleagues, supervisees
• guidance and experiential practice in everyday ethical decision-making
• factual data about common ethical errors

Conscious Use of Power: Awareness

• personal and group insight and healing around power wounds and barriers
• understanding of the debilitating influence of shame on the social engagement nervous system
• engaged curiosity about yourself and your clients as a skill and attitude
• exploration of power styles, power parameters, and the power paradox
• insight about your personal power and its impact on others

Connected Use of Power: Accountability

• practice in staying connected even in conflict
• practical information about grievance processes
• skillfulness at tracking and responding when there is a difference between what you intend and it’s impact on others
• increased ability to be self-aware and to self-correct
• greater ability to clarify, resolve and repair relationships

Skillful Use of Power: Empowerment

• proactive awareness of personal barriers and resources
• increased skillfulness in giving and receiving feedback
• understanding of good self-care as vital for wise use of power
• insights into diversity issues and leadership and power dynamics
• increased ability to respond to challenging situations with wisdom and skill