Catherine O'Brien
Mediator & Conflict Coach
​Resolving Conflicts with empathy and compassion
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“The most difficult issues we face in life, whether as couples, families, organizations, societies, or nations, can rarely be resolved by individuals acting alone, or elites acting autocratically, or factions acting in their self-interest, but only by coming together and working collaboratively.” Kenneth Cloke
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Conflict is a natural part of human relationships, but it doesn't have to create lasting divisions. At the heart of my mediation practice is a deep understanding of the human experience—our emotions, perspectives, and desires, and a commitment to fostering respectful, compassionate dialogue.
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You have the power to choose your response
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Each of us responds to conflict differently. Some may feel overwhelmed, stuck in a cycle of stress and defensiveness, while others might avoid the issue entirely, hoping it will resolve itself. These responses, though natural, can often deepen misunderstandings.​
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How Mediation and Conflict Coaching can empower you
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Mediation and Conflict Coaching are powerful Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) tools designed to create pathways toward understanding and resolution. As a trained facilitator, I guide individuals or groups through a structured process to:
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Explore the issues at the heart of the conflict.
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Enhance communication and mutual understanding.
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Develop collaborative solutions that preserve relationships.
These processes are not just about solving problems—they are about empowering people to move forward with clarity, dignity, and renewed connections.
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To find out more about how mediation works click link below.
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Meetings Available Online or in Person
Meet Catherine
Mediator & Conflict Coach
Hello!
My name is Catherine O'Brien, I am a Mii accredited Mediator and Conflict Management Coach. I completed my Mediation and Conflict Coaching training at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute, at Maynooth University in 2017 and 2018, respectively.
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​I have been working in family and workplace dispute resolution over the last number of years supporting people to find healthy, empowering outcomes.
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As well as my professional experience, I bring a wealth of personal experience to my work having worked in Business for over 20 years as well as having reared three children in a difficult intercultural relationship.
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How can I help you?
If you are in a relationship at home or at work where you feel blocked, controlled, stonewalled, or bullied and unable to communicate your needs, it is time to develop new strategies.
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As a trained mediator and conflict coach I can help you.
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1. Navigate your emotions and express your needs in a safe space.
2. Help you to negotiate your own terms of agreement while addressing the needs and interests of all involved.
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I believe that "in every crisis lies the seed of opportunity" so throughout the process the focus is on positive outcomes for all parties.
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As a mediator I am neutral, impartial and do not give legal advice or make recommendations. My role is to facilitate the process so that it is fair to all parties.
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When deeper needs are acknowledged, healing can occur and new creative pathways open, to finding fresh solutions.
The adage "a problem shared is a problem halved" are wise words but in the case of conflict, sharing with our friends or families can "add fuel to the fire" and escalate the conflict. Seeking the right type of support is important. With this transformation can happen quickly.
A recent client testifies to this with these words.
"Catherine was wonderfully supportive during the Conflict Coaching sessions I did with her. I was in a difficult situation but over the course of four sessions she was able to help me tease out the different perspectives and options available while I also found some interesting new insights which will help me in the future. "
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Another client expressed how important it was for him to be held in a compassionate space as he went through the mediation process while separating after 23 years of marriage.
“I hope never to have to navigate another marriage separation but if I do, I will call on Catherine O’Brien again. Just having Catherine in the room during difficult conversations creates breathing space, the very thing separating couples need most. She has a gentle way of allowing differences to emerge naturally and she gives couples the time required to transform them into healthy resolutions. No one feels pressurised"
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All the great spiritual teachers say that change begins with us and that we have the power to choose what we will become. I am honoured to support anyone who wants to engage in Mediation or Conflict Coaching and find a way forward in their lives.
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Contact me on 0838929426 for an initial free consultation.
What I Specialize In
Mediation
Mediation is a process in which an independent, neutral Mediator assists two or more disputing parties in resolving a dispute in a collaborative, consensual manner
Conflict Management Coaching
Is a one-on-one process that helps people better manage their interpersonal disputes,.
Testimonials
“I hope never to have to navigate another marriage separation but if I do, I will call on Catherine O’Brien again. Just having Catherine in the room during difficult conversations creates breathing space, the very thing separating couples need most. She has a gentle way of allowing differences to emerge naturally and she gives couples the time required to transform them into healthy resolutions. No one feels pressurised"