Let's Talk About It: Applying Communication Theory to Clinical Practice in Relationship Therapy
March 27, 2026 | 9am-11am Central Time | Live Virtual with Asynchronous Option Available
Training Information
One of the most common reasons people seek relationship therapy is due to issues in communication. So, what does communication theory say about how people communicate with their partners? This training introduces clinicians to foundational communication theories that illuminate relational patterns in relationship therapy. Participants will integrate communication-based models with concrete clinical skills to enhance assessment, conceptualization, and intervention in relationship dynamics, conflict processes, and emotional regulation during relational distress. This interactive training will be presented live, but you will have the option of registering for a recording.
Training Objectives
Identify core principles of relational dialectics, relational stage development, transactional communication processes, and face-related communication dynamics, and apply them to conceptualize couple interaction patterns. | Analyze how dialectical tensions, relational trajectories, and face concerns contribute to recurring conflict, escalation, and disconnection in intimate relationships. | Translate communication theory into clinical interventions by integrating active listening strategies, XYZ statements, and naming practices within couples sessions. | Differentiate and apply conflict management styles and facework strategies to support more constructive negotiation, repair, and mutual understanding between partners. | Evaluate and intervene in emotional flooding by teaching communication-based coping strategies that promote regulation, safety, and productive dialogue.
Trainer Information
Blake Paxton, PhD, LCPC is both a counselor and faculty member in communication studies, and is integrating clinical and communication theoretical expertise in this training. He specializes in working with adults, specifically in the areas of relationship issues, family conflict, anxiety, depression, and coping with grief due to illness or losing a loved one. He has a doctorate in communication studies, is EFT certified, and completed his counseling education through Northwestern University. He has experience working with a variety of relationship structures (including clients in monogamous, ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous, interfaith, and interracial relationships). Blake uses evidence based, emotionally attuned, and systems-informed approaches to help clients strengthen connection, navigate conflict, and repair relationship ruptures.
Technical Information
Please contact our Training Coordinator, Maeve Raphelson, at maeve@inclusiveinsight.net with any questions, concerns, grievances or accessibility needs. Registrants are eligible for refunds by request prior to the date of the training. To participate in this training, you will need an updated Zoom application and audio access. Participants will receive an evaluation to complete after the program, which will generate their CE certificate. Inclusive Insight Psychotherapy and Consulting, provider number 2389, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 8/15/25-8/15/26. Social workers completing this course receive 2 clinical continuing education credits. Inclusive Insight Psychotherapy and Consulting has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7833. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Inclusive Insight Psychotherapy and Consulting is solely responsible for allaspects of the programs. Inclusive Insight Psychotherapy and Consulting is approved as a CEU provider by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (License #159.001482, expires 11/30/2027)
Attendee Information
Please fill out your name and contact information to register. You'll receive the training Zoom link once registration and payment have been submitted.
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You can register for a live option (recommended) or an asynchronous option. If you register for the asynchronous option, you will receive a recording and quiz that must be passed with a score of 80% to receive your certificate. You can take the quiz an unlimited amount of times. All registrants will be added to our monthly newsletter of upcoming trainings. Register for the live training by March 27th, you can register for the recorded training any time.
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