ABOUT
I’ve led humanitarian aid missions into conflict zones, analyzed polarization in the United States, and launched a literacy campaign in Namibia as a diplomatic spouse. I have a PhD in conflict analysis and resolution, and a Master’s in democratic governance. Now I speak, train, and write about all of these experiences.
A syndicated writer for PeaceVoice, my op-eds have appeared in local papers in 30 states and travel writing in Intrepid Times and GoNomad. I am on the board of the National Association for Community Mediation and an adjunct professor at the George Mason University.
Many kinds of people and organizations hire me.
I help teams understand the neurobiology of communication and conflict, and then translate that information into more effective teamwork.
I help design or evaluate programs related to democracy or conflict resolution – often using neuroscience insights.
I help individuals reflect on a conflict they’re experiencing and develop ideas about how not only to resolve the issue but transform the relationship.
Training & Consultation
“We cannot solve our problems with the same level of thinking that created them.”
Albert Einstein
60- to 90-minute presentations
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Brain basics: what’s happening in our brains and bodies as we build trust and navigate disagreement
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Conflict 101: transforming conflict into opportunity
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Why would I talk to them?: how to talk across social divides in polarized times
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Healthy workplaces: strong teams through neuroscience
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Effective school boards: working constructively with the school community
Half- or full-day workshops for groups
Workshops are tailored to your needs, usually starting with an assessment of participants' conflict styles.
From there, we explore the neurobiology of communication and conflict.
Then, to cement the new knowledge, we do interpersonal as well as team/ organizational communication activities.
Often, we end by creating a plan of action.
Ongoing consultation for groups or individuals
For groups, we start with an assessment of group communication processes, then do a series of interactive workshops with staff and leadership (often to develop new policies or procedures). Follow up coaching helps key individuals keep progress going. We revisit topics and skills as necessary.
For individuals, we start with exploring the context of the issues, then develop goals and build skills.
Julia K, Vice President, Education Sector
"Our conference attendees kept referring to Dr. Burrell's plenary as a highlight. She was engaging and offered tips we could use immediately to build trust, communicate across differences, and address conflict constructively in higher education. We heard enthusiastic feedback throughout the conference and well after it ended."
Kathy H, President,
Non-profit sector
"We benefited so much from Mindy's training and facilitation expertise. In a teambuilding workshop, she quickly outlined the brain science that plays out during board meetings, then helped us determine how to use that knowledge to improve how we work together. We all loved the session."
Tom W, Attorney/Mediator
"Mindy’s training greatly enhanced my planning and communication for mediation sessions.
By applying her insights, I became more attuned to potential triggers for participants, allowing me to navigate conversations more thoughtfully and avoid unnecessary escalation."
Writing & Resources
Other Conflict and Communication Writing
Neuroscience and Psychology Resources for Conflict Resolution
Videos
Association for Conflict Resolution Voices of Excellence presentation "An Armful of Flowers: Lessons from Bosnia"
