Like any form of coaching these meetings take people from where they are to where they want to be. I start by mapping the conflict, helping people gain insight into the triggers and patterns that perpetuate it. Then we set goals and plan small steps, working with the grain of each individual's strengths and personality.  Each time we meet we track progress - sometimes it takes an outsider to notice positive changes, or help us stop doing what doesn't work and try another tack.

Conflict coaching lasts for as long as it's needed. People know when they're ready to deal with a situation themselves; and better still when they're ready to tackle future problems unaided.  Just like mediation, the aim is not to avoid conflict or sweep it under the carpet, but rather to learn from it and emerge stronger.