Learning to Listen:
Skills for Meaningful Connection
Six Week In-Person Community Training
Strong listening and communication skills help individuals, workplaces, and communities thrive—and they can be learned in ways that feel engaging, human, and supportive. This two-day, in-person training emphasizes curiosity, connection, and practical skill-building, creating space to slow down, learn together, and practice in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Open to anyone who wants to deepen their listening and communication skills, this training offers hands-on practice with everyday conversations. Through interactive activities, real-life scenarios, reflection, and supportive feedback, participants will explore ways to listen more fully, communicate with empathy, and build trust. Expect a thoughtful balance of structure and flexibility, depth and ease.
Training Dates & Time
Dates and Times
Wednesdays, April 29th-June 17th
6:30 – 8:30 pm
Format
In-person, experiential learning with opportunities for individual reflection, small-group practice, and large-group discussion.
Location
Northampton or Florence, MA
(Location TBD based on group size)
What to Expect
Experiential learning with active participation
Practical communication and empathic listening tools
Real-life scenarios, interactive exercises, and guided feedback
A supportive, low-pressure space to practice, reflect, and connect
Who This Training Is For
This training is open to anyone interested in strengthening their listening and communication skills. Participants often include community members, educators, healthcare workers, nonprofit and municipal staff, business leaders, caregivers, and others who value meaningful, respectful conversation.
About the Trainer
Sara Schieffelin, LICSW
MINT Certified Trainer
Sara Schieffelin, LICSW is a trainer, facilitator, and licensed therapist who specializes in teaching communication and listening skills through experiential, relationship-based learning. Drawing on years of experience training public-facing professionals and community groups, Sara creates learning environments that are practical, engaging, and human—where skill-building is paired with curiosity, compassion, and a sense of play.
Pricing and Registration
Early Bird (by April 16): $350
After March 18: $400
Questions or More Information
Contact Sara Schieffelin at sara@saraschieffelin.com
Cancellation Policy
The trainer reserves the right to cancel the training up to two weeks prior to the start date if the minimum enrollment of eight (8) participants is not met. In the event of cancellation by the trainer, all registration fees will be fully refunded.
Participant Cancellations
One month or more prior to the training:
Eligible for a 100% refund, minus a $25 administrative fee.Between two weeks and one month prior to the training:
Eligible for a 50% refund, minus a $25 administrative fee.Less than two weeks prior to the training:
Registration fees are non-refundable.
All refund requests must be submitted in writing to sara@saraschieffelin.com.