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Challenging People

Program Description

The "Challenging People" program is designed to help healthcare professionals navigate difficult interactions with confidence and professionalism. Whether working with patients, clients, or colleagues, this course focuses on understanding the root causes of challenging behaviors and identifying effective strategies to address them. Participants will learn how to de-escalate tense situations, improve communication, and maintain empathy, even in high-pressure environments. The program emphasizes the importance of professionalism and collaboration, ensuring that participants are equipped to handle conflicts constructively and in alignment with organizational values.

Through real-world scenarios and interactive learning, participants will explore practical techniques for managing conflicts and fostering positive outcomes in diverse healthcare settings. The course provides tools for navigating complex interpersonal dynamics, addressing behavior challenges, and creating a more inclusive and respectful workplace. By the end of the program, participants will have the skills to turn challenging interactions into opportunities for growth and understanding, ultimately contributing to improved relationships and workplace culture.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Recognize and Understand Challenging Behaviours Identify common causes of difficult interactions in healthcare settings. Understand how stress, trauma, and communication breakdowns contribute to conflict. Apply Effective De-escalation and Communication Strategies Use verbal and non-verbal techniques to defuse tense situations. Improve active listening and adapt communication styles to different individuals. Manage Conflict with Empathy and Professionalism Balance empathy with professional boundaries in high-pressure situations. Navigate conflicts constructively while maintaining workplace collaboration and respect. Foster a Positive and Inclusive Workplace Culture Contribute to a respectful and team-oriented work environment. Align conflict resolution strategies with organizational values and policies. Build Confidence and Resilience in Difficult Interactions Transform challenging situations into opportunities for growth and learning. Strengthen personal resilience and leadership in managing interpersonal dynamics.

Duration/Time Commitment

3 hrs/day over 4 days online

Fully Online - Live Instructor Led sessions

In addition to class time, one (1) hour of self study time per course day. This course empowers participants to turn challenging interactions into opportunities for growth, collaboration, and improved patient care.

Program Outline

Module 1: Understanding Challenging Interactions Common causes of difficult behaviors in healthcare Recognizing triggers and early signs of conflict Module 2: Communication and De-escalation Strategies Active listening and clear, respectful communication Techniques for de-escalating tense situations Module 3: Conflict Resolution and Professional Boundaries Handling difficult conversations with patients, families, and colleagues Balancing empathy with maintaining professional limits Module 4: Creating a Positive Workplace Culture Fostering teamwork and psychological safety Aligning conflict management with organizational values Final Session: Applying Skills in Practice Case studies, role-playing, and real-world application Personal action planning and wrap-up

What You Receive

On successful completion of all program components, classes, and assessments, learners will receive a Certificate of Completion Confirmation of learning can be provided. Contact us at info@chenetwork.ca

Requirements for Enrolment

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE:
This program is ideal for:
• Nurses, doctors, allied healthcare professionals, healthcare staff, and administrators.
• Patient advocates and navigators.
• Anyone who interacts with patients, families, or colleagues in high-stress environments including Social Work, Health Coaches, and counsellors.

Program leaders in healthcare and public health settings and non-profit professionals involved in health promotion and diversity initiatives.

This program is offered in English. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the language requirements. You may be asked to demonstrate language proficiency.

Current Term and Sessions

Fall 2025

Fal 2025: Nov 24, 27, Dec 1, 4

11am - 2pm MT each day

Winter/Spring 2026

Summer 2026

Summer 2025: July 21, 22, 28, 29

11am - 2pm MT each day

Fee:

$600.00

plus 5% GST

The course fee includes instruction and course materials only

Questions?

Contact us info@chenetwork.ca and

see CHEN-RCES policies

Need to Renew Your Membership or Become a member in the AAN

Tuition Funding for Nurses

If you are registered as an RN or NP in Alberta, you can apply to ARNET for a tuition grant. See the link here for more information and how to apply. 

https://arnet.ca/apply

Note: CHEN does not administer this funding. Consult the link provided for information

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