Couples, families and friends in the Rogue Valley will soon be gathering for Christmas and other holidays. Calls for counseling area increasing as people want to try something new with family members but do not know What to do.

The potential for conflict increases with the number of people getting together. But it's not too late to practice learning to end conflict gracefully! Now you can memorize a sentence or two you will say if that same old conflict comes up. Something like:

"I care about you and I'm overwhelmed right now." or "I am willing to talk about this. I need a 5 minute break first."

Staying calm and speaking with a quiet tone will be the most effective. Practice it now alone or with others when a less loaded issue comes up. And have a bit of time to do something you enjoy to destress before the day comes.

Peace,

Barbara Massey LMFT

ParkPlace Counseling Center

541-245-9610 ext. 3

Medford Oregon