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TESTIMONIALS, FEEDBACK & COMMENTS ::
"Jonathan Sherman teaches with such insightfulness and depth on the interworkings of human emotions and relationships. His coaching has proven invaluable to me, and is the true hope for anyone who has ever loved another and wondered, 'What's wrong with you? What's wrong with me? And why aren't we working?'"

Forever thankful,

Jessica J. Grant
(used with permission)
Comments from:
Seminar Participants
Community & Church Groups
Event Organizers
Clients
School Personnel
Colleagues/Peers
Community Leaders
Complaints

"Thanks again for all of your help this past year. We are doing SO much better and we owe so much to you. I wish you the very best and hope you have a wonderful life!"

—Husband

SEMINAR PARTICIPANTS

These comments come from letters and evaluations our clients and workshop participants return to us. We appreciate all the helpful and encouraging feedback. I am now including the full evaluation results: not just the glowing reports, all of it!

Average Ranking to Date: 9.5/10

Workshop: "Working the System: Motivating and Strategizing with Teens to Achieve the Better Outcomes THEY Wants
Guardian ad Litem and CASA Annual Conference
September 17, 2009, Bryce Canyon, UT. Length: 2.0 hours. Number of participants: 60

"Forced me to look at my perspective of interaction with kids in a whole different way!"

Participant

"The biggest 'WOW!' moment for me was realizing that change will always happen and the lack of change is only in the now."

Participant

"I liked it all. I hope to be able to sit in on another of Jonathan Sherman's prsentations!"

Participant

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.1/10 Average)

Results

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 " " --
10 "Very informational" "Better marriage, understanding children" --
10 "I am one of those 'hands-on' people, so I appreciate the many examples you provided on communicating with teens. 'Why should he trust?'—a good reminder. I liked your concept of the power held by the scapegoat child. "I'm going to work with my 12 year old CASA client on modifiying his behaviors—when he's ready—or at least feeling less powerless. "It was a good presentation and kept my attention."
10 "Focusing on diagnosis as assets not detriments." "solution-based." --
10 "Making the child feel normal within their situation. There are different options. Assuming the best." "Better communication with kids." "I liked it all. Hope to sit in on another of Jonathan Sherman's prsentations!"
10 "Forced me to look at my perspective of interaction with kids in a whole different way." "5:1 principle and my idea of 'normal'." "Nada."
10 "The biggest 'WOW!' moment for me was realizing that change will always happen and the lack of change is only in the now." "Never to buy into 'The Lie'. I want to be a 'Hope-monger'!" "There was a slight difference between the slides on the screen and the handout. Not a huge deal, but something to fill this space. :-)"
10 "I liked the examples from real life and how Jonathan created conversations to show how to use the skill presented. I really liked the approach of looking for the exception. Also, the 'assuming good' concept." "The solution-focused questions." "The 'study smarter' section was not really relevant to my work and what I thought the lecture would be about."
10 "Picking/noting the good. It really does build trust. Listen more than you speak." "Picking/focusing on the good/positive." "Nothing."
10 "Fantastic information! Real-life applicable principles." "Though I'm aware of the the 5:1 ratio I want to be more mindful in applying." --
10 -- -- --
10 "Common sense approach to motivating teens." "'The Truth vs. The Lie' technique. Letting my teens talk or not. "N/A"
10 "The horse whisperer (Monty Roberts) was a really good and memorable metaphor. I was unfamiliar with the solution-based approach and I am interested in looking into it further." "I plan to let my grandson in on a secret about math that most people don't know. It's not about where you sit, but it works, and you gave me an idea about how to present it!" "Nothing really, though I doubt my ability to pull this strategy off in the way you obviously do. I shall think about how to create my own way of using those strategies."
10 -- -- --
9 -- -- --
9 "Examples given. Answering questions." "Reading more on relationships." --
9 "New things introduced." "5:1 ratio" --
9 "The interaction/discussion" "Soution-based therapeutic approach" "Nothing."
9 "The presentation style. The sincerity. The positive approach. The genuineness." "'How's that working for you?'" "Nothing."
9 -- -- --
9 "Emphasis on positive instead of focusing on the negative. No bad kids—the system is [failing?] them." "The 5:1 ratio" --
9 "It provided me with a lot of insight into how to think like a teen and set the parameters where they can have some control as they often feel helpless. I loved the horse work to illustrate fight/flight and how calm/consistency helps." "Giving them more control over the relationship dynamics." "Tips to try to establish the bringing together with the teen when we have such limited time."
9 "Horse-whisperer—good example." "Looking at what is there instead of focusing on what is not." "Beginning took too long to get to meat—make material in beginning shorter."
9 "Good example, interesting stories, nice pacing and flow." "Not buying into 'The Lie'." "A few questioners seemed to derail the conversation and I lost focus."
9 -- -- "Not enough time for more full development...would've liked more!"
9 "Where to sit in the classroom. How to interact with teens." "Where to sit in the classroom. How to interact with teens." "None"
9 "made me re-evaluate how I'm communicating with not only clients, but others in my life." "Giving choices, not reacting, externalizing the problem." "I would have liked more time!"
9 "Better understanding of how to work with teenagers." "Listening, validating, patience." --
9 "GREAT ideas, great ways to work with teens. I will use in practice." "the horse whisperer methods, let the child have control." --
9 -- "5:1, so many others!" "N/A"
9 "Loved the ideas to help kids trust you, and open up." -- --
9 "It was so informative. I learned a lot abou thow to relate to teenagers in work but SO much of it applied to how I have been interacting with my own three year old...and my husband. I think I need to study this more b/c it is so relevant to my everyday existence and not just my job!" "5:1, externalizing problems, not labeling, LEVERAGING perceived weaknesses." "The time slot was bad, I was tired, more participation would have maybe kept us more awake."
8 "I liked the foucs on seeing and concentrating on the positive." "See above." --
8 "Great job. Very informative." "Solution-focused conversations." "End of the day time-slot--attention span is hard..."
8 "Focused on solution-based change. Need to be on the teen's level." "5:1 ratio" "Solutions non-therapists can use over a short period of time would be good, too. Thanks."
8 "Relevant to our population." "How to work with teens." "I was tired."
8 "I liked it all but the horse." "More clarity on how kids reach me. Where to sit in class." "Horse whisperer, while a good analogy, didn't care for it."
8 -- "Valdiating, normalizing, 5:1" --
7 "The different ways to interact with teens." -- "Kind of long, no breaks."
10 " " --
10 " " --
10 " " --

Keynote: Stress & Anxiety: Mastering Strong Emotion
Women's Conference for The Kalamazoo Stake, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kalamazoo, MI, March 8-9, 2008. Length: 2.0 hours. Number of participants: 150.

"Jonathan is just a wonderful speaker! Very inspiring. I appreciate his family examples and pointing out his own faults rather than being the unapproachable 'perfect expert."

Participant

"I feel like I've been hitting my head against the wall--nowhere to go! This gave me some exciting and specific new avenues to try. Thanks for the boost in self-esteem—it was much needed!"

Participant

"Thank you for coordinating agency and the love of Christ with stress management and taking care of ourselves emotionally."

Participant

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (--/10 Average)

Results for the Saturday Keynote Session

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 "Everything!" "I will be checking out more about depression." --
10 "Jonathan's openness. I enjoyed the presentation. It made me more aware and okay to alk about 'failings,' etc." "I will talk more about my feelings." --
10 "We in the Church don't express our shortcomings/faults eetc. with one another and many never seek help for what they consider 'weakness.' I believe you may have opened doors today for some and validated others who have needs and have never thought to share with anyone. Thank you!" "Continue to appreciate the world around me. 'LEAVES!'" --
10 "Your willingness to be led by the Spirit." "I am good enough, because God said so." --
10 "The song parts with how you led up to them." "1. One thing at a time. 2. Say 'No' when need to. Notice how I marked two things!" "It's all good!"
10 "Jonathan is just a wonderful speaker! Very inspiring. I appreciate his family examples and pointing out his own faults rather than being the unapproachable 'perfect expert." "Love is the whole point." "It was all great."
10 "Exhilarating! In order of what I enjoyed most: The Presenter #1; The Subject #2; The Content #3." "I will read and re-read these handouts and then try to apply as much as possible of the good ideas that I need." "Not a thing! You even surpass Jon Bytheway! You are great!"
10 "Thank you for coordinating agency and the love of Christ with stress management and taking care of ourselves emotionally." "I plan to talk to my husband about mastering strong emotion vs. eliminating strong emotion. I will also choose ONE stress reduction technique to introduce to my life." --
10 "The discussion on depression." "Get up early to walk." --
10 "All of it, but particularly liked the slides of pictures of Christ accompanied by the song You Needed Me by Anne Murray as well as the Team Hoyt I Can Only Imagine video (which I had seen before but really needed to see again). Thank you!" "To say 'No' when I need to." --
10 "We all need to hear and connect with these ideas. Thank you. I AM a child of God!" -- "None."
10 "Excellent knowledgable speaker! Great presentation! I am so thankful you took time to speak at Women's Conference!" -- --
10 "The honesty and openness of the class and discusion in this seminar!" -- --
9 "Helping to understand the male thought patterns and that male/female thought pattersn are different and that no 'way' is the 'right' way. Also, trying to maintain focus in our daily lives. Makin g sure not to allow 'stress' to affect, but to help us remember why we have stress. How to become effective in dealing with stress." "Trying to understand the difference between our thought patterns and how to look outside the box of what both of use are hearing and understanding." --
9 "Your straight-forward and direct approach to all the subjects." "Living in the moment." "Using the term 'Judas Priest.'"
9 "You didn't talk 'down' to us. I loved the way you used music!" "I'm going to recognize and let go of the Lies and recognize my birth right!" --
9 "The suggestions/lists of things I can try. I feel like I've been hitting my head against the wall--nowhere to go! This gave me some exciting new avenues to try. Thanks for the boost in self-esteem—it was much needed!" "To 'know self' and to 'know my spouse' as you taught us." --
8 "I like that you gave us so much to think about and that it was Gospel-based." "I'm going to start dealing with/managing my stress better." "Nothing!"
7 "Very user-friendly! Hit the target spot on!" -- "Needed to expand on usable relaxation techniques."
7 "I liked the focus on the Lord." "Not sure." --

Fireside: Buiding Strong Families with "ACCCTS"
Women's Conference for The Kalamazoo Stake, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kalamazoo, MI, March 8-9, 2008. Length: 2.0 hours. Number of participants: 100+.

"Awareness!! There IS hope for this relationship!! We were heading for a divorce before tonight. We will try to appreciate. Thanks a bunch, Jon!"

Husband

"Wow! We heard you yesterday and ended up dragging 17 people with us for tonight's presentation! Our group really needed this presentation. Thank you!"

Participant

"I love 'ACCCTS'! Fun, witty, funny, REAL!"

Participant

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (--/10 Average)

Results for the Saturday Keynote Session

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What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 -- -- --
10 "Everything! I'm definitely going to work on implementing as much as I can remember!" "Really going to focus on 'touching the good.' I tend to be negative and want to change this." "Nothing! It was great."
10 "Well done!" "Radical appreciation." "Optional copy of cartoons would be nice."
10 "Awareness!! There IS hope for this relationship!! We were heading for a divorce before tonight. We will try to appreciate. Thanks a bunch, Jon!" [husband] "APPRECIATION whether I feel like it or not." --
10 "The time you took to teach us." "Appreciation." --
10 "Focusing on ACTion. 'Fake it till you make it.' Also, you were good at responding to everyone's comments, especially the off-topic ones." "Doing the same thing to create positive habits." "I wasn't a fan of the music, probably 'cuz it was in the chapel on a Sunday. Otherwise, I enjoyed it."
10 "The explanation of apprecation and why it is so important. PS: There was a study done (can't remember by whom) but it was about strong families and what they have in common: Family dinners was the one and only common demoninator. You could use that in your Commitment and Time Together sections. "Everything--one at a time." "Can't think of anything."
10 "I enjoyed learning about apprecation. I looked at times in my life when that worked for me and noticed times I should have been more appreciative and then expressed more. Thanks for all the knowledge you shared.I was interested in what you taught about "communication does not equal problem resolution, but communing one with another. Too much wasted time in the past. I have a second marriage. My husband appreciates me and expresses it often. I have learned much from him and life is more enjoyable." "My children are grown and have their own families. I will express my appreciation because there is much to notice. I want my family to know I love them." --
10 "Excellent! Reminding me to appreciate my family more than what I've been doing." "Telling my sweetheart and children I love them every chance I get, hug them every chance I get and to praise them for the next 30 days and not saying negative things." "NA!!! :-)"
10 "Your directness." "The 30-Day Experiment." "n/a."
10 "It was all wonderful and made so much sense!" "Appreciation/30-Day Experiment" "Nothing."
10 "Everything! Loved having the handouts to take notes on. You grew up good! I have good memorie from our childhood!" "Don't nuture the weeds. Nuture the plants." --
9 "I love 'ACCCTS'! Fun, witty, funny, REAL! P.S. Your dad's closing prayer made me cry. What I'd give to have a father like yours (but I do have a great dad-in-law now!)." "I will go home and express LOTS of appreciation to my hubby and kids." "Nada. It was truly fabulous and worth the one-hour drive each way (both days) to be uplifted and strengthened in my relationships."
9 "We can all do this. We all need to improve. We just need to practice." "Appreciation." --
9 "'A-Triple C-T-S' is very interesting. I loved the communication is a tool concept! Thank you for quality and quanity. This is the first seminar I have been to with an LDS presenter." "Appreciation and Time Together." "Nice dance moves in the chapel! ;-)"
9 "Wow! We heard you yesterday and ended up dragging 17 people with us for tonight's presentation! Our branch really needed this presentation. Thank you!" "I haven't decided yet." --
9 "You were very energetic and outgoing. Funny, too. Some topics really hit home as I had an argument with my wife before coming here tonight. She couldn't come as she is working tonight." "The 'Mind/Mouth Filter.'" "Include all the cartoons in your paper presentation that we take with us, please."
9 "The 5:1 Magic Ratio. Fifty or more years ago Dale Carnegie taught 1. the prime motivator for human behings is to feel important. 2. To succeed never criticize or complain." -- --
9 "I really liked the appreciation part. I think it gets neglected too often in families." "I'm going to be more positive and appreciative." --
9 -- -- "Just a suggestion from our marriage: Never go to bed, after having a argument or quarrelling , before making up. Don't let it continue to fester!"
8 "The concept that fault likes with interaction--not with the participants. The concept that completing a task in the manner expected by another communictes caring." "Positive reinforcement." "Could have proceeded a little more quickly; HOWEVER, I have listened to your presentations all weekend, so perhaps it was the overlap/introduction you had to do for new people (the men) tonight that felt pushed."
7 "The evaluations and quotes." "Staying positive for 30 days." "Seats were uncomfortable."
6 "I liked the Ann Lander's thing because I'm hoping my mom an dad will try it." "I just helped me see a lot of things different." "It was just really long." [teenager]

Building Strong Families with "ACCCTS"
Marriage weekend presented for St. Luke's United Methodist Chruch, Highlands Ranch, CO, November 9th-10th, 2007. Length: Friday 11-9-07, 2 hours; Saturday 11-10-07, 6.5 hours. Number of participants: Friday 60-70; Saturday: 30+/-. Audio Testimonials:

"This has given me hope that I may resolve some current turmoil in my family. I will implement the concept that 'Everybody deserves dignity and respect... regardless!'"

Participant

"Your presentation gave me hope. I now have the tools to better my relationship with my husband and children. Thank you!"

Participant

"'ACCCTS' provides quick, memory triggering thoughts that cause deeper consideration."

Participant

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.1/10 Average)

Results for the Friday Session

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 "Be more aware of what is right about the other person (spouse) than what might be wrong." "Listen to her needs and feelings and try to have compasssion for her problems and successes." --
10 "Jonathan's energy, enthusiasm and humor. The easy to remember 'ACCCTS'." "When my 13-year-old daughter wants my attention (e.g., help with homework, tell me something, etc.) and I am doing something on my computer I will STOP what I'm doing and LOOK at her and give her my attention and LISTEN to her." "I can't think of anything."
10 "Simple, logical, useful advice, tools, hints and encouragement." "Stopping to think aobut aspects of 'ACCCTS' BEFORE interacting with family." "Nothing! Can't wait for tomorrow's info!"
10 "I really liked the ACCCTS! I have a daughter-in-law I needed some skills to understand her and this helped!" "Our daughter-in-law is raising our two grandchildren. Our views of life are so different. This is what I need to work on: Appreciation and understanding." "What you presented is great, but scarey."
10 "Fabulous! Thank you!" "Communication" "Nothing."
10 "It is all good common sense info. It is good to have someone go over the concepts." "Appreciation." "Too short!"
10 "To the point." "More time with family." --
10 -- "The concept that 'Love is behavior-based.'" --
9 "Appreciation—even when you don't feel like it. It's about the interactions, not the people." "Appreciation even when I don't feel like it." "I just wish I could get the in-depth discussion tomorrow."
9 "Appreciation: Just need to try not to judge/criticize." "May try the 30-Day Experiment." "The Creative Coping was a little unclear."
9 "1. Practice of appreciation concept. 2. An easy concept to keep in mind--ACCCTS." "Appreciating my family more and asking for appreciation as well." "Being this is only the intro, I'm sure more details follow in the day-long workshop."
9 "Upbeat look at relationships." "ACCCTS" --
9 -- -- --
9 "Good points. Simple enough. Makes sense." "5:1, cut the negative, expecting appreciation." "The unconditional love. I get it thinking about my husband, but not my kids."
9 "Heard several famliar things: Both things that we/I already do and things that we/I don't do, but should. I can see how the things we don't do could work." "Start with appreciation." --
9 "Learning that communication by itself is not as important as once was thought." "More appreciation." "I thought it was very interesting and I enjoyed listening to it."
9 "The references to simple, daily changes in behaviors to affect lasting changes." "More appreciation to my family." "Everything was positive and related to the topic at hand. Well done."
9 "True love is conditional!" "More touching." --
9 "Enjoyed the format. Great material. I'll be back for more!" "5:1" "I would have liked to have this in our 'new chapel.' Great interactive presentation style in a difficult room. Thank you for making it work."
9 "ACCCTS, 5:1, 30 Days." "5:1" "5 minute break--need 10 minute break. Sit and snack while in session."
9 "To look at the interactions and work together. The 5:1 magic ratio." "To focus on the strengths." "Did not need to listen to the whole song (Pink, Brady Bunch). A little would be okay."
9 "Appreciation." "Appreciation." --
9 "Lots of good points that can be practiced right away." "Less criticism, more compliments." "Pink song (Family Portrait) was good, but too long, could have cut the last 30 seconds or so."
9 "The mode of presentation." "Work on appreciation!!!" "Nothing."
9 "I need to hug my husband more." "Many things—at home and with grandchildren." "Nothing."
8 "Quick, memory triggering thoughts that cause deeper consideration." "30 Day Experiment." "Would have liked some more in-depth discussion/tools....wish we could be there tomorrow!"
8 "Examples." "The ACCCTS mneumonic." "N/A"
8 "Copies of the slides in the handout. Humorous. Great presentation style." "Appreciation." "The song in the beginning--too long."
8 "It helped me reinforce aspects of my marriage and learn that my wife has a lot of worthy attributes that fit into 'ACCCTS'." "Positive placement of my wife over the issue of conflict." "I would have prefered if Jonathan had used the dias to speak from--I could've had a better sight line."
8 -- "Appreciating my husband and kids more." --
8 "Succint outline and approach. Many tools in a short time." -- "Nothing."
8 "Asking for appreciation in a non-destructive, non-demanding way. Helping those you want apprecation from to realize you want/need their appreciation." "Recognizing the good more. Appreciation teaching and modeling." --
8 "Getting back to basics of appreciation of others by words used." "Being more aware of what others are doing, what they are about." "I believe love should be unconditional."
7 "I like the thought of ACCCTS--I want it to work in my life, too!" "Love my daughter enough to listen." "Somewhat vague, but feel it will be discussed tomorrow."

Results for the Saturday Session

10 "The area on communication--deep listening. I think this is the most neglected problem in relationships." "I hope to improve communication in my marriage." "Nothing turned me off."
10 "Try changes over 30 days. Change one behavior at a time." -- "Thanks for coming to our church!"
10 "It has given me hope that I may resolve some current turmoil in my family." "Everybody deserves dignity and respect regardless." "N/A"
10 "The simplicity of the message." "How can I transfer 'The Touch of the Master's Hand' to my family?" --
10 "It's never too late to make changes! I plan on trying ALL of these (eventually) with my blended family! The format was wonderful (non-threatening, examples and interaction were great)!" "SIMPLIFY! Positive (5:1) feedback and balancing out validating emotions while discipling behaviors. I use aspects of Parenting with Loving and Logic already." "Nothing bad. I will look into step-family resources even more! Thank you!!!"
10 "Your presentation gave me hope. I now have the tools to better my relationship with my husband and children." "ACCCTS—of course! And, listening—really listening and clarifying." "It was great. Thank you!"
10 "The Touch of the Master's Hand video was powerful! Your presentation had 'the master's touch!'" "I (and everyone) deserve to be treated with dignity and respect!" --
10 "I liked the presentation because it covered so many areas where I and we need to work on." "Listen to my wife and be able to hear what she is saying." "I can't remember anything bad and don't think there was any."
10 "'Ask 3x Nicely' rule." "Use the 'Ask 3x Nicely' rule." "I liked the simplicity of the actual 'doing' actions. More of those."
9 "The statement/direction: 'On my way home from work I prepare myself to be home with my family" and "Seek out your spouse first." "To use those statements/directions." --
9 "Many great ideas and insights I can use in my everyday life." "Listening. Writing my family's Mission Statement." "It was all positive and informative. Thank you."
9 "The subject of boundaries and discipining the behavior." "What I just said and the Family Mission Statement." "N/A. Great day. We really enjoyed it. Thank you!"
9 "I thought that you did a nice job in balancing the questions we had with the stuff you wanted to get across to us." "Treat ALL people with dignity and respect." "Not much."
9 "Catch Them Being Good, Validation Chain, ACCCTS." "Catch Them Being Good." "The chairs."
9 "All good--especially the blended family section. I especially resonated with the faith-based aspect--thank you for incorporating that throughout the day." "Better listening. 'Shut up and listen' with my daughters." "The chairs."
9 "The personal touch of giving people a chance to state the topics we want to have addressed." "Appreciation focus, less criticism, 30-Day Experiment." "You addressed all we asked! It's difficult to publically ask for some topics, of course, in a group setting, but would have submitted it on paper anonymously. This may be a good idea next time you present. Thank you."
8 "Liked factual presentational items and applying them to our every day life scenarios. Gave us ideas to try and also opened our minds to be more creative to come up with 'Our Way.'" "Concentrate on BEHAVIOR rather than 'if-then' blame game." "Would have liked a more instructional approach (more like the Friday night presentation) rather than interactional. Wanted more specific ideas for each ACCCTS apsect to relate in our own way to our own lives and stages of life."
8 "The specific, 'usuable' pieces of advice that I can put into practice right now! I enjoyed Jonathan's presentation style." "Making a family mission statement and sharing the 'goods' list I made about each of them." "I didn't find the horse exercise too useful. Thank you for the day!"
8 "A lot to think about. I am looking forward to completing the workbook and sharing the worksheets with the rest of my family." "The Validation Chain." --

The Great Group Grab Bag:
The Top Ten Activities for Grabbing Participants' Attention
Co-presented with Wade Milne, LCSW, for the Valley Mental Health Annual Fall Conference, October 22, 2007. Length: 75 min. Number of participants: 150+

"Specific, easy to use group activities. I'm always at a loss for quick, easy to use group ice-breakers. These were great!"

Therapist
Valley Mental Health

"A great example of committed clinicians who are paying attention to providing good, engaging care for people who need new perspectives."

Therapist
Valley Mental Health

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.2/10 Average)

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One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 "Everything! Fun, good demonstration, good energy." "All of the group ideas were great." "None."
10 "Loved it! Thanks." -- --
10 "The variety. Groups for everyone. Very adaptable for any population." "I plan to use several of these group ideas." --
10 "Fun. Demonstrations. Hands-on." -- --
10 "Fun, great ideas that will help me teach groups." "Any of these activities." "Nothing. Awesome!"
10 "Content. Preparation. Use of media. Broad range of knowledge." "I plan to lighten up." --
10 "I like that you provided skills to use in practice. Great ideas." "I'll probably buy the book when it's published." "Wish we had more time to try the activities and discuss further."
10 "Practical, interesting, a real attention grabber!" "Continuing with experiential activities." "Trying to pack less into time."
10 "Good energy. Good topics. Good time spent on each." -- "You guys just didn't have enough time."
10 -- -- --
10 "Fun. Interesting. Fast pace, yet organized." -- --
10 "Energetic—connects with audience. Applicable to the kids I work with." "Leave a Legacy activity." n/a
10 "Very interesting. Good examples." -- --
10 "Great ideas. Great presenters. I would buy the book." -- --
10 "Awesome examples of social skills." "All of them." "Just a suggestion: I hope your book will have examples for 1st through 4th graders, special ed applications, etc."
10 "Great ideas and group activities. Thesee activities were interesting and fun, yet therapeutic at the same time." "All of the group ideas." "I wish we could have learned more!"
10 "Nice to get something tangible to take and use!" "Having resources to use when the situation presents itself." "Too short!"
10 "Useful ideas for groups. I will be able to use several." "The Nine Dots exercise." "Nothing. It was great!"
10 "Interactive, fun. Encouraged lots of interaction." "Asking my manager to buy your book for our unit." "More time! Really great ideas!"
10 "Activities. Experiential. Practical, useable ideas." "The Rocks...many of the activities." "Nothing. Great job!"
10 "Very participatory. Good teaching methods." "I will use music more. The Big Rocks priority game. Nine Dots." --
10 "Enthusiam. Great ideas." "Big Rocks, Popcorn, Music." "I really thought it was great!"
10 "Examples of different activities, experiencing the activities for yourself." "Chicken Bones activity." --
10 "Covered many topics effectively yet quickly without dwelling on any one too long." "Teaching in groups or with individuals. Good use of technology." --
10 "Good ideas!" -- --
9 "Clear, hands-on instruction. Good aides, ideas and info to take home." "The cinema stuff." --
9 "The group ideas." "I want to buy your book!" --
9 "Good participation. Upbeat!" "How Would You Like to Be Remembered activity." "I wish it was longer."
9 "The participation." "Tug of War Blocks game, Music." --
9 "Presenters were well prepared. Good ideas for multiple uses of activites." "Media therapy: Music." --
9 "Variety. A great example of committed clinicians who are paying attention to providing good, engaging care for people who need new perspectives." "Music!" --
9 "Can apply it at work. Liked the quotes." -- --
9 "That they gave examples of the games, etc." "That games, music, movies, etc. can be helpful learning tools for processing." --
9 "Very applicable." "I want to show my kids at work this material." --
9 "Good techniques to engage group members." "New ideas to try in group." "The seating."
9 "A lot of good ideas I can actually see using. Moved quickly. Effective use of time. I liked the point of focusing on the ideas that fit for your style vs. doing it because someone says it's the 'right' technique." "Use of music/lyrics in therapy." "Just more time, but that was out of your control."
9 "Active. Made you think! The point: Do activities that entertain you and that fit your style. How the way we set up the environment is as important as the activity itself." "Things to Remember About Me activity." "Longer time to make presentation."
9 "The ideas and demonstrations." -- --
9 "The different ideas on how to do group presentations." "The different group ideas and to approach things differently— outside the box." "Nothing really. I thought it was really good."
9 "I loved the demonstrations and examples for processing. Great handouts!" "Big Rocks." --
9 "Specific, easy to use group activities. I'm always at a loss for quick, easy to use group ice-breakers. These were great!" "Nine Dots. Easy, no prep needed. Popcorn." --
9 "It was fun and thoughtful. I really liked the activites I had not done before." "Yes." "Many we have already done."
9 "Great." -- --
9 "Great ideas. Well presented." -- --
9 "It's useful. The handouts will be used and were well written. Easy to replicate ideas." "The musical piece along with setting goals." "Do the demos in the middle of the room so people can see—instead of in the front."
9 "Great group ideas. All are effective." -- "I didn't really learn anything new because i do this for a living as a Recreation Therapist. Support our profession by including us next time!!!"
9 "Very knowledgable and fun presenters." "All of it." --
8 "Audience participation to grasp the ideas." "Big Rocks." "The Paper Bridge—would've like to have seen this vs. just talked about."
8 "Great ideas. Very good presentation." -- --
8 "Good presentation, but not enough time." "I will use the activities." "Not enough time to really get some of the ideas."
8 -- -- --
8 "Lots of great and new ideas." "Big Rocks and Can You Guess the Product." --
8 "Helpful and applicable." "I want to get the book and use it." --
8 "Variety of uses for activities." "Will check out the internet sites." "Good."
9 "Great ideas." "Chicken Bones." "Hire a recreation therapist. Support the profession."
8 -- -- --
8 "Fun, interactive, visuals, use of audio." "I'll have to think about it. Probably the Popcorn activity." "The sudden use of country music!" ;-)
8 "Lots of props, a/v, class participation." "The Quotes activity." "More time for the class."
7 "Entertaining." -- --

Mastering Anger & Other Strong Emotions with Today's Teacher: Master Yoda
Presented for the Valley Mental Health (VMH) Annual Fall Conference, October 22, 2007. Length: 75 min. Number of participants: 225+

"This is the best presentation in my 12 years with VMH and going to VMH conferences! Thank you!"

Therapist
Valley Mental Health

"The speaker was passionate about the topic and well-prepared. The speaker's information spanned the variety of disciplines we had in the class and there was an application for everyone. I would like to have this speaker do more presentations. His information and presentation style were great. We needed more time!"

Therapist
Valley Mental Health

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
20+ "Great analogy with Star Wars." "Taking advantage of the truths I was taught—Committing 100%" --
10 "The presentation made me think." -- --
10 "The lessons taught that youth could understand." -- "Need answers and copies of the quotes in the packet."
10 "I enjoyed the use of Star Wars to illustrate very important concepts." -- --
10 "Excellent. Using the Star Wars theme kept me glued to my seat and it's a wonderful idea to use to relate to our clients." -- --
10 "Very energetic; applicable to practice. Interactive." "Direct clients to face issues and look at personal possibilities for myself." n/a
10 "The comparison of 'fantasy' (movie) to reality in daily life. Different approach that was refreshing. Glad it wasn't all lecture and talk." "Instead of 'trying'—just do it." --
10 "Very interesting and can be well integrated in therapeutic aspect with clients." -- --
10 "Using the concept of Star Wars—good and evil. How to use patience in everything. Mastering anger." "Mastering patience and anger." "It was all good."
10 -- -- "Nothing."
10 "Everything! I'll start thinking differently." "Ridding myself of the past." "Nothing!"
10 "Great presentation! kept it very interesting throughout. Everything was relevant in conjunction with Yoda's teachings." "Control will come—it's just a matter of time." "Well done. Can't think of anything bad."
10 "Made subject matter relevant to clients and how we support them. Interesting presentation! When Luke gets hand cut off and falls = good metaphor for substance abusing clients who continue to try to work towards sobriety." "Do or do not! Presentation methods. Share with my clients in a group." "This is the best presentation in my 12 years with VMH and going to VMH conferences! Thank you!"
10 "I liked the movie and hearing your insight and how you related it to our lives and our patients' lives." "Be patient and keep practicing to control my anger." "Nothing."
10 "Movie with quotes, helpful to have a visual in order to learn, something to relate to." "Patience. Anger is a quick way to 'solve' a problem. Would like to know how to get the movie clips with quotes--it would be a great group for our teens." "It was great!"
10 "Enjoyed the Star Wars analogy." -- --
10 "Good clips. Good quotes. Meeting the clients where they are concept. Entertaining." "Our perceptions, what we believe is what will become of us and our future." "Little more application for intervention with our clients."
10 "Clear. Kept my interest." "Work on mastering emotions." "Nothing."
10 "The information provided. The video on how it applies to our life. The actions." "Not 'trying' to be better, but be better." --
10 "Parallel between anger teaching and Star Wars." "Knowing the balance between light and dark—understanding anger." --
10 ""Jonsh Jokal Nam Hornet of Dayquil rules!" "I liked it all and I will forever be Douth Cosal." --
10 "" "Don't give up." --
10 "Excellent presentation! Encourages introspection." "Increased focus on the present. Increased awareness of my emotions." --
10 "Jonathan has good presentation skills. I liked the experiential techniques (movie clips and worksheets) he uses to illustrate clinical principles (mindfulness, distress tolerance, etc.)." "Movie clips to illustrate principles." "Great presentation."
10 "It was entertaining and interactive. I think it would make a great group activity and will probably use it." "Use mindfulness more often." "Nothing. I liked it."
10 "" "With clients regarding fears." --
10 "Excellent points and tools for assisting clients." "Look beyond!" --
10 "Everything!" "Anger, fear aggression are easy. I will work at "No" and eliminate the [couldn't read word] from my practice and life." --
10 "Learning that the enemy is within and getting to know yourself will help you know when you may lose control. The presentation was made fun so it made it easier to pay attention and enjoy." "Journal so I can get to know myself better." "None. Great job."
10 "Learn control." "Control." "Nothing."
10 "Creative! Inspirational!" "Myself." "I wanted more."
10 "Great clips with tied intro working with anger (both personally and with my clients). Very interesting presenter. Great material covered." "Using concept of mindfulness." "I would have liked a longer presentation. It was really interesting."
9 "Reality. Application to everyday life." "Mindfulness." "Could be longer."
9 "That it's easy to follow negative feelings. Need to work to have control over them. It takes patience, practice, but it's possible." "Work on remembering who I am." "Maybe make the presentation longer. It was great, but it felt like he had to move through it too quickly."
9 "Meeting the client where they are. Modeling respect/ undconditional positive regard for clients. Using media they relate to." "These movies." "More examples of real clients and more of what you've done with them."
9 "Real world application— not text-based or dry-scientific-based. Easy to relate to when given real/visual examples." "Worrying does not consider short/long term consequences. Relate to the kids we treat." "Maybe relate move quotes back to client examples more and how to treat."
9 "Mindfulness skills presented in an easy to relate to/practical fashion." "How easy it is to let emotions rule the rational mind and lead us out of the present." "Close seating--not your fault, but heads up to organizers."
9 -- "Stay mindful. Not let anger and emotion take over." --
9 "All of it!" -- --
9 "Jonathan's way of presenting. Movie clips." "Most." "Feel good—I liked it! :-)"
9 "The dark side is quicker and easier." "Actual brain impulses = patience is 50% slower than anger. Wait for it." "Introduction didn't hook me so I was slow to get into the ideas. Fade light dimmer up and down instead of turning on bright lights." [Note: that setting wasn't available, unfortunately].
9 "I liked how a well known movie was used to portray the ideas of the workshop. Watching someone's struggles and achievements, emotionally and physically really helps people to see how they can achieve goals themselves." "I am going to start believing in myself and knowing that I can make good things happen in my life." "I can't think of anything that needs to be changed. :-)"
9 "Good relevance to practice." "To try and relearn practices and get past clients emotions." n/a
9 -- "Reaching clients at their level/place." --
9 "The speaker was passionate about the topic and well-prepared. The speaker's information spanned the variety of disciplines we had in the class and there was an application for everyone." "Being honest with my fears." "I would like to have this speaker do more presentations. His information and presentation style were great. We needed more time."
9 "The presentation of the movie and how we can use it as illustration of the good and bad." "Not to worry and stress over finances, etc." "I can't think of anything."
9 "New ideas." "Letting go of the past." --
9 "Prepared, enthusiastic." -- "Light change, abrupt dark/light hard on the eyes."
9 "The presentation kept my attention. I liked the perspective." "Mastering emotions— applying this in life. Integration— developing compassion. "It was good."
9 "I really liked the quotes and movie clips. It made the presentation fun. I wish all the quotes on the walls would've been included in the handout." -- "I wish there would've been more time. The presentation went by really fast. And I would've liked more on the application of it; how to implement it into practice."
9 "The practical uses that were applied and the movie clips to emphasize the points made." "To do or not do, but the fact that you can always attempt to do again." "The lack of seating and constant interruptions of people walking in--beyond your control."
9 "Excellent way to present mindfulness." -- "Need some low-level lighting while show is playing."
9 "Fun, interesting way to bring people into ideas of DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). I wasn't sleepy at all! :-)" -- --
9 "Examples via video clips." -- "Very interesting. Made info applicable and useful!"
9 "His comments and insights. The use of the movie. Well done!" "Searching my own emotions." "None."
9 "The clarity of the the thought processes." "Think—Look inside." --
9 "I liked the use of multi-media to present concepts of controlling overwhelming emotions." "There was so much. I'm still synthesising it all." "I wished it could've been longer and had more time for discussion."
9 -- "Building on a luminous foundation." --
9 "The info and use of visuals." "Mindfulness ideas." "Close the session so those who come late don't disturbe those who were on time."
9 "Very useful! Great application to DBT model." "ALL OF IT!" n/a
9 "The use of video/visuals. Interesting. Kept my attention. Made me think." "Sayings, meanings." n/a
9 "Good review of what I know in a very fun format." "Good requires patience." --
9 "Energy, fun." "Idea of energy." "All good."
9 "Insight and fun of relating anger to Star Wars." "Everything." --
8 "The concepts and principles of the movie used in daily life." "Understanding that life does not have to be the way it is, it can change." "I thought it was all good."
8 "Relating emotion management with Star Wars and gaining a better understanding of possible feelings of clients. I really liked the idea of integrating and embracing our emotions." "It's about integrating and embracing our emotions rather than getting rid of them." "I thought it was a great presentation. I would like to know and understand even more about the topic and how as a clinician better deal with my clients who have these issues."
8 "Enjoyed the visual aids. Very dynamic presentation." "Finding common language with my clients and then applying information." "Wish there was more discussion and less movie."
8 "The way you used the move to tie in concepts about anger and other emotions." "Belief in myself and others. Look for the real person behind the mask." "I would prefer more discussion and less movie clips."
8 -- -- --
8 "Learning to deal with anger in different ways from different views." "To believe." "Nothing. It was good."
8 "Good points. Analogy. Good review." "I will continue 'not trying' but doing." "'Faith precedes the miracle.' More discussion on 'faith' which precedes accomplishing anything."
8 "It was entertaining and great for visual learners." "To have and gain control of the heavy emotions and have calm peace in my life." --
8 "Channeling anger to solutions. Decide what you will believe and act toward it." "Both of above." "Directed more toward how you could use in session with a client--like excerpts of dialogue."
8 "Video brought out good points. Fun presenter. Can tell you enjoy what you're doing." "Like teaching various concepts about Wise Mind using this video." --
8 "Kept my interest with video clips, but also taught helpful principles." "Managing anger techniques." --
8 "Very interesting. Creative." "Being mindful of mindfulness." --
8 "Clips. Philosophy of Yoda." "Being mindful of my emotions and that fear, anger and aggression can be easy, but not right." "I don't know."
8 "I liked the movie clips and then discussion after each. Provided visual." "Channeling anger to solutions rather than aggressive acts." --
8 "Liked the connection to Star Wars. It made the points come alive well." "I will try to slow down my reaction time and help my clients do the same." "Can't think of anything."
8 "Star Wars analogy was good." "Mindfulness." --
7 "Using Yoda and the myths of Star Wars and Carl Jung to teach skills. I like how it reminded me of the things I'm learning and using in my personal life. I use what is called [something] Repatterning New Physics. We are our thoughts." "I really already use it. It was more like a review." "I've seen the movies so many times I tend to zone out."
7 "The presentation was engaging. Fun way to experience the material." "Living in the now. Being mindful." "Too short."
7 "The quotes and the message." "The size of the problem doesn't matter." --
7 "The Star Wars analogy is clever." "Time will tell." "I wanted to see the whole movie. I'll have to go home and watch it now."
7 "Jonathan was a great speaker." -- "I thought the movie took away from what could have been taught on anger management."
7 "Tied into DBT." "continue to learn my own triggers for anger." --
7 "Star Wars movie clips." "Learning the good and the bad." --
7 "Ideas of how you teach DBT to teens (different movies)." "Movies in DBT group and individual DBT skills training." "I would love more specific examples from your practice of how taught and implemented."
7 "I like that it evoked self-reflection and introspection. The speaker was very engaging and passionate about the topic." "Look at wahat I do with my fear and how I can master it and keep it from limiting me in my life." "I would have liked a little more direct clinical application. Maybe more examples of how to apply it with clients."
6 "I've never seen Star Wars so that was entertaining." -- --
5 "I loved the concept but was not able to keep up and get my worksheet completed." -- --

Multi-Family Unity: Two Houselholds
Presented for The Integrity House Parent Conference in Cedar City, UT, October 13, 2007. Length: 90 min.

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.4/10 Average)

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 "I think you touched my child's father's HEART and he may change his ways. Thank you!" -- n/a
10 "The speaker was very good. The resources were great." "All the resources that were given."
10 "The REALITY of it!" "Remember to validate! No conflict." "Nothing. GREAT JOB!!!"
10 "It was all great! Thank you for your passion within your profession." "As much of it that I can apply to my situation." "Not enough time."
10 "How you related to other family situations--because there is some good stuff that we learned, even as a single family unit." "We will adjust the Cooperative Parenting Commitments to fit our needs." --
10 "It was all helpful." "Establishing clear structures." --
10 "The most helpful thing was talking about boundaries and validating the emotions of extended family." "Establish clearer boundaries and validate extended family better." --
10 "The helpful ways to communicate." "How to talk with my daughter's father." --
9 "I really liked the 'bit' of phone role playing you did. I would like more role playing examples." "Clear structures. Clear boundaries." --
9 "Tools that will not only help us with our daughter, but we have another daughter in a tough blended family. It's so helpful knowing there is help!" "Things from your workbook--the worksheets, the suggested reading, website, ezine. Do you have a book?" --
9 "Balance between emotions and behavior and how to apply it to my life. Also, building on the postive first as the starting point." "Validating other person's view of what is important." --
8 "Made you look at your short falls." "Modeling myself--understanding this more clearly." "These things" NOTE: Participant drew diagram of the balance scale with the emotion side w/ a down arrow and the behavior side w/ an up arrow. I'm not sure what this means exactly.--Jonathan
7 "All helpful information. Very positive." "To work more with my daughter's mother to help parent better." "Needed more time to take it all in."

Successful Second Marriages:
How to Really Live Happily Ever After
Presented in Lehi, UT, May 4, 2007. Length: 60 min.

"Superb. Excellent. You are really making a difference in our community. Thank you."

Rick and Linda Turner, Community Standards Council

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.3/10 Average)

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 The idea that there are going to be difficult times in this marriage and that I will not allow it to fail. I am committed to making it work--I like the idea of this that Jonathan and Tiffany presented. And the idea of "going home"! Financial discussion and strategies. Wish it was longer and could have explained some of the concepts in a little more detail.
10 The idea of not just hoping but deciding it will be successful. I also like the part about fighting fair. Having the financial discussion. --
10 The both shared really great points in being married and how to make it work. Rules for fighting fair. I enjoyed the whole thing. I found it very helpful.
10 I like that Jonathan and Tiffany love what they do and that they really care about us. I plan on reading all of the material that I've been given and using it. --
10 Having the handouts to refer to later. The facts shared, the family life cycle--A-hah! Knowing that it's okay if we're having tough times...really! The 10 steps for steps, mentorship, 5:1 tracking. Nothing. Awesome as always. Really!
9 I really enjoyed the male/female perspective and the handouts are great! The 5:1 magic ratio. Too short!
9 I enjoyed that it was uplifting and hopeful. The packet was very helpful. The rules for fair fighting. Also, work on the "unfinished business." Too short! I'd enjoy another hour.
9 There were three main things that had me thinking "A-ha!" I realized that doing my best in this marriage increases my chances of a great marriage even if it's not this one. My problems won't be resolved by marrying someone else. Even if I did divorce and re-marry, I'd do a great service to that marriage by doing all I can in this one. Remove the influences that are dividing my commitment to my partner and to my marriage. I didn't realize I was divided until tonight. An hour isn't enough time. Would have liked to spend just a few more minutes on some of the points that flew by.
9 The encouraging reality that 66% of divorces can be prevented by two things: education and intervention! The 5:1 Ratio --
7 Good info! Very well spoken. Financial info and tips. Lots of info to digest in 60 minutes.

Building Strong Families:
A Strength-based Family-Life Education Model
Presented at the 2006 Utah Fall Conference on Substance Abuse, St. George, UT, September 20, 2006. Length: 90 min.

"Jonathan, You have a wonderful way of pulling together information (from so many sources) and making the information so usable and real!"

Sandy Jaussi
School Counselor
North Summit School District
And long-time community partner

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.6/10 Average)

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 I like the acronym ACCCTS. That really helps me remember things. This has also given me new perspective on how to hlep not only those I work with, but my own family as well. Appreciation--That's what I'll start with. I would have liked more time on each one [trait] but since it was a short workshop that's the way it goes.
10 Awesome concepts and the presenter appeared sincere. What strong families are. Also, Spiritual Wellness. Nothing. I feel great!
10 The materials/packet. The presentation (energy/humor). Appreciation. --
10 Great presenter Everything ACCCTS Need longer time slot... I wanted more!
10 Easy to understand. Great examples that are real life and applicable. Enthusiastic presenter! A-CCC-TS! I would have liked m ore on Spiritual Wellness, there just wasn't time.
10 The focus on positive is what I'm working on at work (school) and at home, so this was great. Quotes for my faculty. Nothing--really :-)
10 It's so true! Using positives, strengths. --
10 Handouts, slideshow, stories, examples, pace, energy. All of it! None.
10 At this time in our family's life we are having a lot of conflict. It was good to find out that we are a strong family. -- Nothing. All was good.
10 Liked his humor. -- Not your fault: Cold room.
10 All the information was useful and presented dynamically. Thanks! -- --
10 I can remember the acronym. Sharing it with my husband in my hotel room tonight. --
10 Great presenter. Enthusiastic. Interesting material. Within my own family using praising. Cold, not your fault.
10 Personal, open, made me feel like I was part of the experience. Positive input. Too short. I'd like the full version.
10 Specific info and examples. ACCCTS That it wasn't longer!
10 Jonathan, You have a wonderful way of pulling together information (from so many sources) and making the information so usable and real!
Sandy Jaussi		 -- --
10 All of it. All of it. Not enough time. Too short.
10 Great job!
10 As a professional it helped me to look at my personal situation with a great deal of appreciation. More appreciation. Nothing. Well, the room was chilly.
10 Entertaining! It was as you said: "brilliant, superb, exhilarating, life-altering." -- --
10 The interaction. All of it! Nothing.
9 Interesting--Entertaining. The principles are kind of common-sense, but so often overlooked. I will try the 30-day experiment on appreciation. It was just too short.
9 Like having handout to follow so didn't have to take (copious) lots of notes. Enjoyed presenter's personal interaction w/ audience. Liked having a few key points to foucs on. Liked positive approach--gives hope. Want to study and choose one facet. --
9 Good useful information. Focus on the positive. --
9 Information presented in an informative, understanding, funny and positive way. Interaction w/ kids. Some of the overheads were hard to read and the jokes [cartoons] weren't in the packet. [JDS Note: This is because of copyright issues and the few overheads that are hard to read are read aloud to participants]

9 Very applicable to curriculum development in family issues in substance abuse. Appreciation! --
9 Great reminder of ideas to build relationships. More positive comments and especially for "invisible work." --
9 Can use it at work and in my own life. Everything! Room was freezing!!
9 It was great. -- Not enough time.
9 Great! Thanks. -- --
9 Excellent. Time together. --
9 The briefness, conciseness of it. -- N/A.
8 Great audience interaction. Appreciation. I didn't like the cartoons on the slides--too hard to read.
8 -- -- --

Stress-Busting 101
Presented at Central Utah Enterprises, Provo, UT, March 2, 2005. Length: 50 min.

"I just wanted to tell you that overwhelmingly everyone had a real positive response to your performance. I thought it was excellent. I really like the way you used the PowerPoint and your materials. The presentation was really well put together. You did a good job. I was really impressed. I really appreciate you coming down here. Everyone really liked it--they thought that was the best training best training we've had in quite a long time."

Steven D. Hartline
Program Manager
Central Utah Enterprises

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (8.7/10 Average)

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 Perception is reality...a new pair of glasses. Remember, "What's driving your thought or emotion." Not enough time. Practice implementation.
10 How to solve issues. Great ideas all around. Roll problems off like water rolls off a duck's back. --
10 I particularly liked the reference to the old guy that was confronted by the neighbor that emotionally observed the happenings to the old man. And all he said, "It is as it is, maybe good, maybe not." Some of the 101 Stress-Busters. Nothing!
9 The idea that stress is a constant and has its peaks and lows--to enjoy the peak moments. Learning to look at things where it's not others that have control over what's in my head, but that I do. To take things less seriously so that it doesn't affect my mental and physical health. Time for training too short! Would like more "meat." Thanks for the packet, though. I will read through it. :)
9 Practical, useable strategies, ideas. Handouts that we can study. -- Maybe a group discussion, or ask for ideas, see if we had questions, etc. [Presenter's Note: Presenter frequently opened the floor for comments/questions, however, few were forthcoming].
9 Helped me understand all the ways I can deal with stress. Presentation was fun and interesting. Presenter made it enjoyable. Really positive. 101 Ways to deal with stress. --
9 I enjoyed the philosophy of the presenter. A great reminder to stay in the now -- Needed more time!
9 Learning to just deal with things as they come. Worry about things and deal with things when it is appropriate. Dealing with things as they come. Not worrying about them now. I know you 'd like to know if something was bad, but I just can't think of anything.
8 The Far East stories about what other cultures do and think is helpful and interesting. Taking time to eat mindfully I don't think any of it was bad.
8 Lots of information. Zen was good example of how to live in the moment. Not enough time. Also, funny slideshow at the beginning were a little too fast to enjoy the pictures and sayings.
8 You were full of life and I could tell that you really believed what you were teaching. I'm not sure, I haven't read all the stress management tools you've given us yet. Didn't go into how to really deal with the stress, just told us we could basically.
8 I liked the handouts given to us so we could take them home and read over them ourselves. Thank you! I really enjoyed it! I'm going to try the 101 Stress-Busters challenge I would have liked to have more time to go over more of the material.
8 Showed how to use self-control part of brain. Use the stress in a good way. It was very helpful.
7 Packet is helpful to review and well presented. Four things to do in any situation. Needed more time to present, but that was not the presenter's fault.

Child Development and Attachment

Presented at the Private Guardian ad Litem Training, Provo, UT, January 24, 2006. Length: 2 hrs.

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.7/10 Average)

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10 Interactive, lively, easy to follow--Worth the drive from Salt Lake City. Reminding of the value of trust and the equation you use for it. Nothing. I like lots of concrete examples, not just abstractions. Perfect.
10 Open-ended discussions. Everyone was able to jump in anytime and comment or question. This seminar was very eye-opening and made a lot of sense. Easy to understand and all-around useful knowledge--for home and work. I hope that I will be able to determine at what stage the child stopped maturing, then I will have an idea where this child is "stuck" and were we can go from there. --
10 Informal, open to questions, real-life examples. Intimacy = vulnerability + safety. --
10 It was good to review the stages of development and the formulas for trust and intimacy. It was also helpful to hear situations involving other people andhow to address those matters. The advice concerning my own family and the ability to use this information in discussing the dynamics of a chlid that I am a Private Guardian ad Litem of. --
10 -Excellent use of humor to keep the presentation moving.
-Good use of personal experiences (own and seminar members') to illustrate concepts.
-Good explanation of how/why talk therapy works.		 Son's girlfriend was abused as a child, suffers massive depression. Doesn't get how talk therapy can do any good. Now I can tell her and I will. Excellent job. Nothing wrong.
9 -- -- --
9 All good--combination of sequence and specifics and application to individual problems is instructive. -- Just not enough time to cover it all.

The Relationship Wellness Series: Marketing Wellness
Presented at the 2005 Annual American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy Conference, October 22, 2005, Kansas City, MO. Length: 2 hrs.

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.5 Average)

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10
Excellent session! Exhilarating, maybe life-alterning, who knows? The best one for sure that this AAMFT Conference. I've been wanting to do outreach and this is the perfect incentive.
Monthly schedule of free seminars at least 4-9 months/yr.
Really nothing. Thank you Jonathan! Your dad must be proud!
10 It was both informative as well as fun!! The braintstorming sheet. Nothing
10 The energy, the humor, the balance between lecture and audience participation. -- --
10 Your style is super--engaging, funny, enthusiastic. Information was presented quick and was inspiring. Monthly mini-workshops. Nothing stunk!
10+ That you used our ideas. A series of my own. More time...as always.
10 Energy. Good info. -- Could have been longer.
10 Excellent style--encouraging the funny--maintaining the depth and reinforcing the value of what we know. I always find myself assuming that what I know is common knowledge. Thriving, not just surviving. Great mnemonic trigger sequence. Nothing...Move around just a little bit less?
10 Engaging, spontaneous, passion of presenter. Valuable, helpful and generous information. Series in community. Candy throwing. --
10 Humor. Audience participation I like the concept of fighting against the forces that destroy community. Nothing.
10 Dynamic and creative prsentation. Kept me interested. Great information! Thanks for the candy! :-)! Lots of stuff--too much to list. Nothing.
10 -- -- --
10 Presenter's style was very entertaining. How to develop some new groups for my clients who are in a residential substance abuse center. I didn't realize this was about how to market your own program. Either the description wasn't explicit or I just didn't understand it.
10 Input from audience. Presentation style. Entertaining, engaging. Good "how-to"s. -- N/A
9.5 Appreciated the "down home" approach. Workshops in my community. --
9 Energizing! Do the workshops for markting. I already have a ---- parenting workshop. Nothing. You are a great salesman!
9 Have fun! Don't take myself too seriously. -- Nothing. Good material and presentation.
9 I liked the energy, the passion, the laughter, the fact that you were real. To come up with a series from passion and belief rather than from anxiety and perfectionism. More curriculum ideas or resources so it is professional.
9 Presentation. Keeping it real. Start using ideas that scared to use. --
9 Ideas of presenter and those shared by attendees. doing some planning for my own series. Loved the songs. Plan to steal numerous ideas. It was all good.
9 The fact that I am passionate about something and that it is too important to keep in my head. Practical ideas and motivating. Getting out there and doing it! --
9 Great material. Effectively delivered. Provided me with a plan. Providing workshops in community. It almost moved too fast.
9 Everything Ideas for topics, ideas for marketing. Materials you sell are costly.

Jonathan's Response:
Compared to the many $300-500 programs that the mental health agency I work for has purchased, the cost of $39-149 programs seem incredibly reasonable, and many have said so. Yes, they are more costly than a $25 dollar book, however, these also come with fully customizable materials on CD as well as in hard copy, as well as the ability to contact the author directly for consulting on setting up workshops, marketing advice, and tech support at no additional cost--A considerable value indeed.
8 Out of the box community service. Not operating from a scarcity paradigm. Community prevention work. The cheese factor was high. Isn't there a way to be interesting w/o being folksy?

Building Strong Families:
A Stength-based Family-life Education Model.
Presented at the Colorado Behavioral Healthcare Conference, September 19, 2005, Keystone, CO. Length: 3 hrs.

Rate your overall experience of this presentation (9.1 Average)

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The Good:
What did you like about the presentation?
One Thing
What's one thing that you plan on using and/or implementing into your life from this presentation?
The Bad:
What didn't you like that could be improved and/or whatwould you like to see covered that wasn't?
10
• The variety of the presentation materials: cartoons, movie clips, music
• Presenter's humor
• The handouts
Ideas for creative coping
Nothing--It was great!
10 Jonathan, you have great energy and enthusiasm for your subject matter. That always makes a great presentation. The material was excellent. Great use of cartoons and examples. 5:1 at work! Would have liked to spend more time on the Spiritual Wellness piece. SO neglected in our field.
10 It was presented in a very comfortable, friendly manner. Excellent framework. The framework, etc. Truly, nothing!
10 Great sincerity and humor. Down-to-earth stuff. Time together develops quality time. --
10 Including family in therapy--strengthening the family. ACCCTS Nothing.
10 Just brought different kinds of ideas to use with my family/clients and brouth up my own awareness for my life, family. Family Mission Statement --
10 Communication/connection of material to me. Also, it's extremely realilty-based. ACCCTS! --
10 Clear, adaptable to my own family and the families I work with. Thank you for giving me tools I can use in many of the programs I work in. All of it, especially the "30-Day Experiment" for my family N/A
10 I loved the information itself adn the simplicity of the ideas. I loved the examples that helped me understand the concepts. Putting the "Appreciation" concepts into practice in my own family. Nothing that I didn't like. I would have enjoyed more specific examples of appreciation, "fighting skills," and communication just because it helps me remember and turn info into action.
10 The way to look at strengths nd talk about it w/o feelling like it is just a "rah-rah" type of thing--concrete ways to get this across. Some personal "A-ha"s! THANK YOU! Good use of video! I am reading The Power of Intention, by Wayne Dyer, and this just fit in too perfectly. (THANK YOU)100. Thank you for NOT reading the slides! Using quotes, strategies, education of "ACCCTS" Can't think of any.
9.5 The humor/cartoons. Oh, yeah--the info was great, too! Very hands on info--can use right away--great use of media tools. -- --
8 It was simple, congruent and genuine. Permits a person in this field to view all that they do as not special or magical, only common sense. Anyone can apply ACCCTS to their lives and the truth of the matter is all should. The focus for me was to apply this to my life to be genuine. --
9 The framework to improve family relationships. Appreciation N/A
9 Very informative, great PowerPoint, great movie clips, good use of humor, stories and examples. Pacing was occasionally distracting.
9 Presentation style. Putting the info into "real-life experience." Pulling in participation from audience. Inventory, exercises, concepts. Nothing.
9 The humor and interactive format. ACCCTS in general. The Creative Coping and Problem Solving suggestions. ? I don't have anything.
9 Jonathan used humor to keep everyone engaged--that was fun. Provided opportunities for interactions. Used video presentations effectively. The Family Strengths Inventory. ACCCTS --
9 Sense of humor, interactive. As much as I can. --
9 Good energy. One positive, happy person. 30 days w/o negative comment I already had that when I came in, actually I feel much better now [referring to the silly coment in eval regarding what didn't like... "...what gave you gas?"
9 • Great content--extensive, but well-packaged/concise.
• Good pacing of material w/ time allotment
• Level of energy and humor, knowledge base of speaker.
• Variety: didactic, video, PowerPoint (w/ cartoons which I love), and quotes.
•Good audience participation.
• VERY practical concepts.		 Continue to be solution-focused. Will use Family Strengths Inventory with clients • No real glaring weaknesses.
• Stimulated my interest in other parts of the series.
• NOTE: I tend to be over scrutinous of workshops b/c I have done so many myself. The weaknesses stick out readily to me. However, yours was exceptional!! Thank you!
9 "Potential for growth" rather than "weaknesses" 30 days "only positive comments" --
9 -- -- --
9 Humor. Easy to remember, teach and apply. More positives. Teaching these strategies to families I work with. --
9 It was entertaining and re-affirming to what we already do. The Family Strengths Inventory --
9 Humor. Helpful model All of it :-) More info on the research which the model is based would have been great. [A brief intro to the research was given. Also, full research is given in the Presenter's Guide].
8 Order of presentation and thorough. Argument rules. --
8 The presenter was dynamic and made us laugh. I liked the cartoons and personal examples. Although while listening, I related this presentation more to my family than my clients, it was rejuvinating to think about how to strengthen my own family. ACCCTS, duh! :-) Having video clips cued is important.
8 Strengths-based 5:1 rule --
8 I liked the practical part where you applied it to your own or how we can apply it to self. Really practical! Thank you. The 5:1 ratio. Try to apply it to self and see how it does work. Long-winded on some points that we already understand.
8 I want to share this with my grown kids I would have liked to have a copy of the cartoons. [cartoons are available at www.bardos.net/humor]
7 Nice energetic presentation. Respect for other's expertise in the room. Good knowledge. Interventions for strengthening appreciation. Nothing.

Relationship Wellness Series Participants:

The response from participants has been extremely encouraging. After each workshop participants fill out a brief evaluation form. Here's what past participants have said about the Relationship Wellness Series:

“Lots of solutions that I could start using daily.”

“The information was very useful!”

“I enjoyed interacting with the panel. It was fun. We all have much we can learn, no matter how long we've been married.”

“It was really insightful.”

“Nice, relaxed atmosphere.”

“It gave me great encouragement.”

“I liked how you told the good aspects along with the bad aspects of marriage — the realities of it all.”

“The honesty! Thank you for presenting different aspects of marriage and for showing that yes marriage is challenging but that it is still worth it. I wish all of my engaged friends could have come!”

“The information is put together very well. The presentation is very dynamic, very good pace.”

“Very user-friendly presentation. Good info.”

“I like the effort you put forth to help the community. Appreciate that we're able to get new ideas and your willingness to share them with many people.”

“I love the practical ideas. I feel excited to try the ideas out. It seems possible to have a great marriage. Thanks.”

“Wonderful personalities and upbeat approach to the topic.”

“Really great! Enjoyable, educational and inspirational. Thanks guys.”

“Initially, I was a reluctant participant, but I enjoyed the relaxed and open atmosphere and the discussion topics were good. It's a great program.”

“Thank you for bringing such a valuable service to the community. I'm looking forward to the next seminar.”

“Realistic information — it made sense, it's workable. The ideas presented will fit into today's busy lifestyles. I really appreciate the handouts.”

“I enjoyed your presentation. Good principles and fun way to present them.”

The only complaint they've had, repeatedly, is “Only once a month?!” "I wish it were longer." In response they plan to begin longer classes on the more popular topics.

"It was great! Thanks."

"Hearing others complain makes me feel like our marriage is excellent :) Just being here talking about marriage improvement reminds me to work harder."

"Open conversation was great. It was good to hear others' concerns. It is nice that you share your knowledge free of charge to the community. Thanks."

"I liked that you let us have input on the structure of the evening. I liked that you guys made it fun and interactive. The greeting at the door as we walked in was nice. Thanks guys! Great job!"

"Loved the emphasis on appreciation. Excellent all around. Thanks for all the positive suggestions!"

"What I most liked about the presentation was the concept of making it fun — I remember better when the thought is attached to something positive. It was well thought out."

"We always enjoy coming. We're glad you do this and wish we could make it more than we do. The little helps and tips that we gain here are nice. At first I had a hard time getting my husband to come but when I let him know we're trying to make a good marriage better, it helped. The little ideas and the things we pick up from you guys . . . we appreciate it. Thanks."

"I enjoyed the fun 'informal' atmosphere of the presentation. It was nice to have such a variety — jokes, quotes, personal experiences, etc. I liked how open it was to audience participation and questions. The presenters were both excellent and very funny — easy to relate to."

"Excellent class. Thank you. There were three things I liked most about what I learned tonight: 1. most importantly, the impact of understanding, 2. Confirming that not giving up is so important — that change can take a while 3. A loving approach can actually work AND frees the parent from the child's problems."

—Parenting Teens with Love and Logic Workshop Participant

"Excellent. Very good. I liked the new ideas and new thoughts. I'd like to learn more."

—Parenting Teens with Love and Logic Workshop Participant

"I liked learning about your background and experience, I liked the concept of putting walls [stable parenting structure] around the child where they only have one option to get what they want and they eventually choose to go through the door. Excellent workshop. Thank you."

—Parenting Teens with Love and Logic Workshop Participant

"I most liked the concept of giving control to gain control. Excellent presentation!"

—Parenting Teens with Love and Logic Workshop Participant

"Excellent workshop. I especially liked the 'Wammo!' idea [referring to the Love and Logic delayed consequence strategy]."

—Parenting Teens with Love and Logic Workshop Participant

"I liked the 'real life' examples. I liked that there is a handout packet to take home and refer to. Excellent. Thank you."

—Parenting Teens with Love and Logic Workshop Participant

"Very good workshop. Great ideas and tips!

—Parenting Teens with Love and Logic Workshop Participant

"I liked the organization of the information. the things that stuck out the most and things I'd like to work on are: 1. Showing appreciation — looking for the diamonds instead of the dirt; 2. Find out what each family member needs to feel affection for them; 3. Catch them being good not bad; 4. "It means a lot to me when you do..." 5. Character comes out in conflict; 6. Doing jobs together improves communication; and 7. Choose one or two things to work on each day. You guys are very professional and personal. Thanks."

"Most helpful for me was looking at what makes good families better. Searching for the good. You are both very upbeat and make it fun! I like how you break it down into specifics so we can choose something that feels workable."

"Presenters are very mature in helping support the family. Family unity is important to you I perceived."

"I liked the open discussion, handouts and personal experiences that were mentioned."

"The presentation was put together well — very open. It was great and the presenters were funny!"

"I most liked the simple and humorous approach to the subject. Good job!"

"Thanks! The presentation pretty much hit everything on the head! In other words: realistic information, it made sense, it's workable. The ideas presented will fit into todays busy lifestyles. I really appreciate the handouts. Although my husband couldn't make it (at Scouts with the boys) I will be happy to share this information with him. The technology stuff [multimedia presentation] is pretty cool, too. Thanks for making this a 'freebie,' too."

—Building Strong Family Workshop Participant

"Great setting for the workshop, nice facility. The slides and materials were great. I especially appreciated the personal warmth and professional presentation style. Thanks!"

—Building Strong Family Workshop Participant

"I enjoyed your presentation. Good principles and a fun way to present them. Some ideas I knew, and some were new. I enjoyed my time with you."

—Building Strong Family Workshop Participant

"Great material and well prepared! A fun presentation."

—Building Strong Family Workshop Participant

"I got more out of this one workshop than I did out of eight months of therapy."

— D. C., Building Strong Family Participant

"Very well presented!"

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"Very informative. We're glad we came!"

—Engaged woman, Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"It opened my eyes to look at some things that I can change as well as things that would make my relationship easier."

—Engaged man, Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"Your jokes lighten the subject. A lot of good analogies—I especially liked the one about 'rules.' Nice handouts. Very upbeat speaker — excited. He answered our questions well—is well educated."

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"I liked the useful references in the handouts. Relationships are the most important things in our lives."

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"I enjoyed the discussion about how to 'filter' during the stimulus/response reactions we have. I enjoyed learning how to slow down emotional processing of anger by using the questioning process."

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"Very interesting! Only wish we had more time to get into it even more." -

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"Excellent! The presenter was very respectful fo everyone and very professional. It was realisitic. Most people could use this information. It made us realize our problems are normal and that we can do better. This workshop makes me WANT to be better. This was very good. Jonathan is knowledgable, positive and professional."

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"Thought provoking. Especiallyt the part about natural satisfaction cycles [referring to the marriage life cycle] and conflict resolution. Very professional. A larger and more in-depth class would be nice. Excellent!"

—Engaged man, Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"Lots of often overlooked concepts were covered. Good workshop."

—Engaged man, Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"Very good. I liked the areas it touched on (conflict, marriage, maintenance, etc.) that we as a couple need to discuss."

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"I enjoyed hearing a different view of marriage. Very good. Thanks!"

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"Very good on a lot of different views covering a broad subject. The presenter really seemed to know his field."

—Engaged man, Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

I liked how many different areas and thoughts were covered and the depth and explanation of them. The marriage and life satisifaction scales helped me understand a lot of the experiences that my wife and I have had and made some things easier to accept. Very professional and very good."

—Pre-Marital Workshop Participant

"We've come to your other presentations. The Love and Logic formulas are very helpful. The presenter is easy to listen to, realistic and practical. I really enjoyed the humor."

—Love & Logic Participant

"Very motivational with concrete, usable ideas."

—Love & Logic Participant

"The specific examples using actual dialogue were very helpful."

—Love & Logic Participant

"I liked the Love and Logic ideas. I also appreciated hearing other parent's problems and ideas. There was a good balance of instruction and participation."

—Love & Logic Participant

"The most helpful part was the new perspective on discipline — letting go of the anger! Thanks for the workshop. I'm definitely looking into more classes. Thanks!"

—Love & Logic Participant

"I really liked all the little tidbits of information that help all stages of life. We enjoy finding out new tips that help us and are always wanting to improve. Thanks for supporting the notion that things don't have to be bad to get better."

—Love & Logic Participant

"You have a great presentation style. You're very easy to listen to. The partabout being positive and praising your children was something I really need to implement in my life. I love the humor. It was wonderful. I liked the nice, casual approach. It isn't intimidating and makes you feel comfortable."

—Building Strong Family Participant

"It was excellent. I really liked the openness. The presenter was great, friendly and likable. Thanks!"

—Building Strong Family Participant

"It was great! Good practical advice. You are a good presenter and kept it fun, positive, upbeat and relaxed."

—Building Strong Family Participant

"I really liked having the handouts to follow along with your presentation. I enjoyed the quotes you added to the handouts, too. I will really use the appreciation suggestions. I thought it was GREAT!! I will definately come to another class!"

—Building Strong Family Participant

"Great instruction. It was a very good presentation. Thank you."

—Building Strong Family Participant

"Thank you for the opportunity. It's a very nice public service. Very informative. The presenter was very relaxed and confident."

—Building Strong Family Participant

Participants at Presentations Given to Community & Church Groups:

"I remember something we were talking about in [Marriage and Family Relations] class about sending/giving out a compliment or appreciation at a moment least expected. It's been very effective not only in my personal relationships but its been great for my business as well."

—Karl Christen
One on One Mortgage

"Down to earth suggestions."

"It was understandable and enjoyable as well as applicable and timely."

"Everything was positive! You never used the word paradigm! Ugh!"

"Everything was great. Thanks again. [What most liked was] the whole concept of living happily together as a family unit."

"I enjoyed everything. The "appreciation" part was very much needed."

"You gave us great information about having strong families."

"Your humor made the whole mood fun. I really enjoyed learning what I can do and continue to do to keep my relationship fun. I liked the stories and cartoons. I was really great."

"The handouts were great! Then I don't have to trust my memory to remember everything. Great topics and examples."

"Entertaining."

"The humor in your presentation. I liked how such an important topic can be presented in such a light manner. You guys are very funny and nice."

"I enjoyed the openness and humor involved. All the aspects seemed attainable."

"The good information you gave in a very understandable way. Love your humor. I only wish more people could have been here."

"The honesty in evaluating families and relationships. Knowing there are times when we need to be open with our spouse. Nice presentation."

"Great principles. I liked the diamond, grass and oil analogies. Good job! Thanks."

"I really enjoyed all the information shared. Some was new info and some was a great reminder. I really appreciated the humor and light relaxing atmosphere."

"I enjoyed the cartoons and I think the six steps [from Building Strong Families] are awesome!"

"Direct, to the point information."

"It was a well thought out and laid out presentation, making it possible to understand steps to take to improve relationships. I appreciated the positive approach: seeking to strengthen relationships before they get too problematic."

"Most helpful part was realizing that we are not the only ones out there dealing with these stepfamily issues."

"Great presenter, very knowlegeable and gracious in his words!"

"Good discussion. A lot of helpful information."

"Very professional, excellent presentation. I loved the discussion. The TV clip, too. It was great. Thank you."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Excellent! I most liked being reminded of making my relationship a priority. Hearing about other peoples problems was helpful as it helped me realize we're not alone in this. The problem is that you guys are too nice. You make our guys seem unthoughtful."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Very good information. Well presented and I liked the slide show. Both presenters seemed excieted and enthusiastic about the topic. Thanks. Very professional and appropriate. Excellent presentation."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"It was pretty much to the point and helped me realize a lot of things about my marriage. Excellent! You both looked 'okayley-dokely!'"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"The presentation was very good. Helped me realized that I need to be more understanding and have more of 'desire' to help make our relatoinship better. I'd like to learn more."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"I liked the ideas about learning [knowing and understanding] your spouse. Very good."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Excellent presentation. It gave me somethign to think about—changes I need to make such as focusing on acceptance of the other. Very professionally done."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Excellent. As close to perfect as you can get. Lots of good information—a great outline for how to get started. You guys did great!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"It was short and sweet—not a brain overload. I appreciated the concept of taking a little at a time works better than trying to do it all at once. You make it fun and interesting. Excellent. Thanks."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"I enjoyed the open discussion and your knowledge of the subject. Overall a very good presentation!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Very good. I realized that although my husband and and I have a good marriage I still do not know him very well. I'd like to have more time to go into different ways of learning more about your spouse. They may be simple, but I'm obviously missing the boat where that's concerned. I'd like to learn more."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Excellent!!! You guys were great. Thanks for making it fun. Thanks for all the helpful ideas. Suggestions? I can't think of anything!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"The video clip was fun and I liked the stories. I loved the handouts! Thank you! It was really good. Thank you so much."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"I especially found the section on 'acceptance and gratitude' very helpful. Excellent presentation. I just wish we could have had more time. I enjoyed the excellent presentation and discussion."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"I do a lot of studying on this subject (improving relationships). It's nice to hear that I'm on track and to keep doing what I'm doing. Only wish it the presentation was longer. It was excellent.

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"I liked your LCD presentation, the use of the scriptures, your experiences and sharing of stories. The jokes and getting the crowd involved were were good!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"I enjoyed the humor an the frank discussion. The handouts are very helpful. The presenters were very relaxed."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Good overheads/slideshow, booklet."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"It was a nice overview of relationships in general with very good examples of marriage issues and husband and wife interactions. "

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Really liked how you made it sound like no matter waht there is a always something you and your spouse can do to make marriage work with some help. We only wish you could have talked longer as we wanted to hear more from you. You were very nice."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"It was an excellent presentation. It gave us hope. The time flew by. You really kept our interest."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"I liked the way you used video clips and the screen for viewing. No criticisms. You did well!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Excellent! I enjoyed the humor. It helps to know that others lives are not perfect. You gave me some great ideas and things to think about!

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Very good! The information caused us to face our areas we need to work on in our marriage."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Fun, informative, realistic. I appreciate how you included the gospel. The presentation was very good. I couldn't hear everything, but my wife says I'm deaf anyway!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participan

"You're great. You're really good to the community with all your free workshops and services you provide."

—D.C., Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"I liked how it was presented more open than preachy. You did great!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"It was good to hear that the task is secondary to the relationship and to not make the relationship a casualty to winning the battle. It was good to remember the five positives to one negative rule. Good workshop."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Great workshop. I really liked having a packet to follow along with what you were talking about and take home so I could focus on the presentation rather than taking notes. The part about the normal curve in the relationship was good [referring to the marriage life cycle]. Focusing on one thing rather than overwhelming ourselves was also important because it is easier to start somewhere than change everything at once. Overall, it was very informative. I would have liked to see more on romance covered but I'm grateful that there are some articles on that in the packet!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"Great! I liked that you don't seek to blame one partner over the other and that you are very open-minded. I wish we had more time to go through more issues! I want to come to a workshop!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"It was great to hear from a man who understands women. I appreciated the accepting and tolerant nature you spoke with. I appreciated the ideas about accepting 'repair work' even when it isn't ideal. You were entertaining, too! Suggestions? None. I only wish we had a lot more time for more!"

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

"It was done in just the right amount of time without bogging the class down. Good class."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"I liked that the material is done in such a way as to promote thinking about our own personal life and maybe changing things that are amiss in your life. Excellent presentation."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"What? I'm normal? Ya-hoo! Excellent class."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"Excellent workshop. I most liked Jonathan's expressive style and all the examples."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"I liked recognizing that I don't show or express my appreciation more and how that will help. I also liked learning that the relationships are more important than the task at hand. Excellent."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"The presentation was excellent. I liked that the presentation of the materials was put into lay man's terms which made it easy to understand. I just wish we had more time. I could listen for hours."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"Understanding the change process was good. I liked the 'purpose of the task is to strengthen the relatioship' principle. I really liked the Ann Lander's clip [Hugs and Praise Raise Good Kids]. Overall, excellent!"

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"Very good. I especially liked the presenting of the positives and thinking about the 'diamonds' instead of the dirt. I liked it all."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"Just a lot of good info. I enjoyed it a lot."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"Excellent. The info on family communication and the whole ACCCTS presentation was informative. Only problem is I wish it was longer."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"I most liked the ACCCTS concept. The course went quickly! Excellent."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"I most liked the real life examples. The content was great. I liked the casual and open environment. Jonathan should teach the whole course! It was excellent!"

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"I liked the common sense approach and the five to one ratio concept. A lot was covered in a short amount of time."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

"I liked the good acronym/analogy and the 'top-down' reasoning. Very good."

—Building Strong Families participant at a presentation offered as part of a community parenting education series.

Divorce Education for Parents Feedback

The most helpful thing about the course was:

Any other comments about the course:
Knowing when to date and bring a step-parent into the family. And knowing how to deal with children acting out.

N/A
Recognizing and learning how to communicate with your kids.

Should be required!!!
Helping me understand the importance of being civil with my co-parent.

Worthwhile!
Experience of the instructor. --
Understanding how to talk with each other as well as our children. That it will help me understand my children.
Focus on kids and what they go through. This motivates me to seek additional help w/ how to relate to my kid and to co-parent better. Thanks.
Focus on what is right for the kids--not to be bitter. The orientation class should not be a requirement.
Opening the eyes of both parties that htere's a solution to achieve peace. Should be given to people planning on being married.
Stressing that our kids are not the reason we got divorced. Excellent presenter! Educated yet realistic!
Jonathan's anecdotes and stories. --
The presentation. It is difficult to imagine my mentally ill husband with my infant daughter. I th ink there are some circumstances where a child needs to be protected until the parent is well.
The instructor was knowledgable and presented helpful information and skills. --
Reassuring me that the course of action I am taking is correct and to "stay" the course of taking the high road and not stooping ot the level of "my child's other parent." --
Taking time to think about our job as parents albiet separate ones. Good respect of people's privacy while encouraging sharing.
The instructor was very neutral and non-judgemental which is very important while going through this process. Thanks!
Understanding that kids won't ask to talk about it. For me to ask specific qustions and encourage communication. Excellent instructor. Glad I took the class. Glad it is required.
Learning how kids think. Jonathan is awesome.
Help seeing it from a child's perspective. Instructor was great. Great sense of humor for people in difficult situations.
The info about how to find a qualified counselor The instructor was fabulous.
I believe it will help me get along with my spouse better and help us raise our daughter together. Great course! You did a great job. Thanks.
The presenter, Jonathan. The class was excellent.
The instructor was very good.
The information on pre-marital counseling for next time should I deiced to get remarried. Very nice job. I enjoyed the council and the presentation.
Make things amicable for the kids and not just about yourself.
Learning not to bad talk the other parent.
The understanding of how and what the kids feel.
All the info It was interesting and informative presentation
Understanding where to place emphasis and ownership of feelings. Respect the person for who they are not what they were not during your marriage. Very helpful. Understand the importance of learning what made you fail in the past so you can be successful in the future.
Other people's input and advise. Great job.
Co-parenting, validate feelings. Jonatahn, great job!
Discussing ways to change communicating Discussion about step-parenting seemed irrelevant at this point (cart before the horse)

[JS: I disagree for this simple reason: This is a divorce education class for parents about the impact of divorce on their children which includes stepfamily transitions and preventing the children from going through a 2nd or 3rd divorce, especially since the divorce rates in 2nd marriages are higher.]
Balance…tolerance…balance. Very helpful…actually think that a few more classes should be required.
The presenter's balance between the emotional part of it all and the realistic/necessary part of a happy future. Very informative and entertaining as possible.
Jonathan was very informative and helpful. Humor always helps. --
Discipline behaviors, validate ALL feelings. --
Co-parenting and step-parenting. --
For me it was the importance of validating feelings even if they're wacko. --
Making me want to have a better relationship w/ my “children's father”! I appreciate your attitude and willingness to help.
Knowing that there is a way to have a loving divorce! Jonathan made me feel very comfortable with the whole 'class' idea. I was somewhat nervous but that soon went away.
The examples I feel empowered and am optimistic that we can co-parent in a meaningful way that is beneficial for the children. Jonathan is an excellent speaker.
-- The course should be mandatory within 30-days of filing. I wish we had this information a lot earlier!
How I can do a better job as a parent--so my kids feel secure and healthy. Jonathan did a great job.
Giving all the information on kids, divorce, etc. I have learned a lot. I think it should be a course mandatory even for those who are not divorcing.
Helping understand kids' needs --
The resources.
Divorce Orientation Class Comments
His resources and his experience doing counseling for many years, etc. I learned a lot from this course.
How to prevent future marriage failures. --
Steps to take to reduce the chance of divorce in the future. --
Great. This class should be required BEFORE filing.
The information

Comments from Event Organizers

"Thank you for the wonderful presentation you gave at the UCA/UMHC [Utah Counseling Association] annual conference.

Your presentation was very professional and timely. Such comments were made regarding your presentation as, 'I enjoyed how comfortable you made me feel,' 'I liked the small setting to interact,' and 'I learned a lot of good information to apply in my personal practice and personal life.'

"I wish you succes in all your future endeavors."

Christy Peck Kane
UCA/UMHC President Elect

"I appreciated the professional manner of setting this up: the follow-up phone calls, etc. The handouts are excellent! You were both very helpful and friendly. Thanks again. You guys are great!"

Bonnie D.

"Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with us. We appreciate it so much."

Hoytsville 2nd Ward Relief Society

"Excellent. I most like that you offer free classes and that you have several topics to choose from. Great speaker!"

—Anjanette Logren
American Mothers, Eagle Mountain Chapter President

Testimonials from Clients

"Wow. This has been so helpful. I got more out of our first session than I got out of four years of counseling! Thank you so much!"

M., Ph.D.

"Jonathan,

"We want to send our most sincere 'thank you's your way. Without your help I would not be able to fully enjoy thi wonderful time in my life. My wife would not have a fully present husband and our son would not have such an engaged father. We have experienced so much joy and growth since his arrival. Only a family with a sober father could experience this. You have done more for our family than you can imagine.

Love,
C.S. and Family

"Dear Jonathan,

"I was just going through some old stuff, and came across one of the sheets we had written up during one of our sessions. I wanted to drop you a note, and say THANKS for all you did for my wife and me. I look back, and realize that without working with you, we would have ended up divorced, and fighting all the time.

"While we still have problems, they are reduced by at least 80% from before we met with you. I greatly appreciate the time you spent with us, and guidance that was given.

Thanks again,
Kirk A."

"I just wanted to tell you THANK YOU for all that you did for my husband and me. We are doing really good. I can't say that I fully trust him yet, but I am getting there. We are doing better now than we have in a very long time.

"You taught us a lot about how to understand each other. And a lot of thanks goes to you for helping us see that we could get through these tough trials and still stay married. It is amazing how different our feelings are toward each other now then two years ago. I can't even imagine what my life would be like if I would have gone through with the divorce. And the impact it would have had on my children's lives. I just can't thank you enough."

Jana A.

"Dearest Jonathan: We would, as a family, like to express our deepest thanks and sincere appreciation for helping us and taking time for us. We love you and hope we can help others somehow, sometime. We know life will never be easy, but thanks to you for showing us some tools from the heart. We feel deeply indebted to you."

R. & M. C.

"I felt very comfortable with you and felt for the first time I would be able to work with someone who really wanted to solve my problems, not just drag them out in long discussions."

C.A.

"The fact is that you are so wonderful that everyone wants to see you and it can be difficult to get an appointment! I'm not just buttering you up, its true! Thanks for being there for us over the years."

Julie V.

"We really appreciate your help. You are wonderful. You shine in this profession. You are so good with the kids. You were just what we needed. Thank you."

Mother of five

"Recently I have had the opportunity to utilize the services of Jonathan Sherman on behalf of my son, a graduating high school senior. The combination of challenging schoolwork and personal relationships had created inordinate levels of stress in his life. Jonathan Sherman counseled with him over the last few months and supported him in trying some new coping strategies. These have worked and we feel confident that he is successfully on track to graduation and new stages in his life."

Parent, Ph.D. and Fellow, American Academy for Mental Retardation, FAAMR

"With Jonathan Sherman's aid we are acquiring invaluable communication skills. We are learning about ourselves and our relationship. We are finding ways to enjoy one another even more; respect each other and ourselves; find new grounds for dealing with our children as well as with other relationships. Our growth towards one another has been positive and we are very grateful to Jonathan for his encouragement and coaching. We look forward to more growth and learning under his care. We are both of the opinion that all that we are learning here would not have taken place without Jonathan's care, efforts and supervision. At least it would have taken a lot longer and been much more difficult to arrive at."

Husband and wife

"Thanks for not just doing your job. In that I mean I feel you really cared about us."

R.A. Former Client

"I got more out of this hour and a half than I did out of eight months of therapy!"

RWS Participant

"I am very impressed and comfortable with Jonathan. He is professional, knowledgeable, patient and caring. It is the first time in all my therapy [experiences] to feel this."

Former Client

"Jonathan and the environment are very friendly. You guys are great."

Former Client

"Jonathan Sherman has helped me with depression and other issues. He has been awesome!"

Former Client, RN

"Jonathan Sherman is an EXCELLENT counselor!"

Former Adolescent Male Client

"Jonathan counseled me and we came to find out that I was more the problem that caused my son's problems than he was. He loaned me a book that was the best thing for me to read. I initially didn't like finding out that I was the bulk of the problem, but who can argue with the results? Thanks!"

Father of Adolescent Male Client

"Thank you. You have been so helpful. I feel we can really make our relationship work."

Wife

"This has been so helpful. I feel like I have some clear direction. I have felt so directionless for so long."

Husband

"You're very easy to talk to. I appreciate your help. I feel very safe with you. You've been a great help. Thanks."

Female client

"This is really helpful to have someone to talk to about these things. I can't talk about them with any of my guy friends."

Male client

"Jonathan is very calming."

Female client

"How can such a young man could understand so well the feellings of an old woman? You have an old soul."

—Female client. One of my first clients as a new therapist

Comments from School Personnel

"Thanks for the assembly. Jonathan did a great job. Keep up the good work."

—Jerre Holmes, Principal
North Summit High School
Coalville, UT

"On behalf of the students and staff at the Park City Learning Center I want to thank you for the time that you spent here with our students last month. Every comment that I have heard from teachers and students has been extremely positive and complimentary.

"We have a great group of students in our program who are in need of inspiration, direction and thought-provoking discussion. From what I have heard about your presentation, you were able to impact our students in all three areas.

"Thank you so much for speaking to our classes. We hope to have future contact with you as a speaker and resource for our program."

Tim J. McConnell
Administrator, Principal
Park City Learning Center
Park City, UT

"Your presentation to the students at the Park City Learning Center was well received. The teachers and students spoke positively about the experience. Thank you so much for coming."

Gina Agy, RN
School Nurse

"I haven't met you yet, but I sure have heard a lot of good things about you and the work you've done for our school district. We sure wish we could get you working in-house here with us."

Elementary School Principal
(new principal coming in)

"Thank you so much for visiting our classroom!! We had a lot of fun and I know that the students really loved you; we got a lot of excellent feedback. I hope it was fun for you as well."

—Anna Pikula
Park City High School

"You just do a nice job with your presentations and I like how you engage the audience."

—High School Counselor

"The student's behavior is so improved! The principal and his father are very pleased."

—High School Counselor

"Jonathan did a great job. Keep up the good work."
[In reference to the "Be the Answer: Solutions to Bullying/The Power of Compassion" student body assembly]

—Jerre Holmes, Principal
North Summit High School
Coalville, UT

Comments from Colleagues & Peers

Outstanding Education Award
"In sincere appreciation and recognition of outstanding efforts in presenting the public with accurate, meaningful and current informaiton about mental illness."

Utah Behavioral Healthcare Educational Corporation

Outstanding Education Award
"Jonathan has relentlessly been reaching out to our community through community education forums wherever, however, and whenever available. I know his heart and his character well. His knowledge and humor combined with his sensitivity and compassion make him a gifted educator." Read full Nomination Letter here

Steven D. Hartline
Program Manager
Central Utah Enterprises

Also, get copy from MB that she read at awards ceremony

"Thank you so much for agreeing to be a breakout presenter for the Bridges of Understanding Conference. You have had such good remarks from the attendees for the past two years [for the Building Strong Families presentation]. Great handouts. Thanks again for helping to make this a great event for our faith community leadership! You are a pro!"

Vicki K. Rodgers, MS, LPC
Deputy Chief Operating Officer
Jefferson Center for Mental Health

"I just wanted to give you a message from Kris Prince. I asked her how she thought the class went. She was just exuberant about your class. She said that you handled it so well and that there was one gentleman who just wanted to talk about his own problems and that you generalized it well so it benefited the whole class and did a really nice job. Further, she said that after they left her husband even had benefited from coming to the class. I thought that was really great that she was so happy and thought you had done such a good job and I wanted to share that with you."

Lynn C. Maynes, Ph.D.
Divorce Mediator & Child Custody Evaluator
(Kris Prince is the Director of the State of Utah Parenting for Divorcing Parents Program. She and her husband came for a site visit to observe the class and intstructor).

"I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your presentation at the State Mental Health Conference.  I told [a colleague here] about it and he said you would be sending him a CD!  Thank you for being so willing to share your material.

"I really liked that the information is strength-based and family focused.  And, of course, your enthusiam is contagious.  Good job!  Keep up the great work."

— Karen Platis, LCSW
Program Manager
Valley Mental Health—West Valley Unit
West Valley City, UT
Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Great reminders!! I especially enjoyed the discussion of appreciation. Lots of energy by the presenter. Good job! I want to use it for my family group at our center." [copy was sent to her]

—Sandy Harmon, LSAC
Program Director
Substance Abuse and Prevention Services
Southwest Center
St. George, UT
Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Jonathan: Last year [2003] at the mental health conference you gave a presentation on Building Strong Families and listed the six most common straits that strong families have.  I work at Davis Behavioral Health and do family preservation.  I have been using your stuff in my programming. I enjoyed listening to your presentation - it was very good.  I enjoy this program.  Families like it, too." 

—Lisa Fowler, SSW
Case Manager
Davis Behavioral Health
Layton, UT
Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

Comments from: All in the Family—Working with Families and Systems: Family Therapy Training and Techniques

"The humor aligned with the information. Techniques that were playful and actually could be used in therapy. Jonathan has a sweet and accepting nature and is probably an excellent therapist. He's awesome."

"The interactive parts were great. I enjoyed it all."

"I liked the conept of the solution being the problem. I will use that. The packet is also useful. Thanks."

"I loved the exercises. The best part was the focus on the underlying theory that drive the use of techniques."

"I liked Jonathan's enthusiasm, the variety of activities, and great info condensed."

"Jonathan was fabulous, well-prepared and entertaining as well. Great balance between being informative and entertaining."

"I liked the practical approach to family therapy. I loved the energy and fun approach. I feel energized to work more creatively with difficult populations or simply more than one person (i.e., families)."

"Great ideas! The light-heartedness and yet useful information was great! It was also fun!"

"What did I like? Everything! What do I think could be improved? Nothing!"

"I liked how Jonathan was interactive with the group, his sense of humor, great knowledge and practical information."

"It was excellent--really useful. I loved the paper handouts. I owuld love to continue getting more training from him. My only complaint: it was too short!"

"I most liked his knowledge base and use of experiential techniques. Jonathan was unbelievably energetic and enthusiastic."

"I loved the activities."

"It was great fun. I loved the ideas re: how to manage the [couldn't read comment here]."

"I liked the hands-on techniques for us to us. The way you presented was great."

"Jonathan's presenting style keeps me engaged. He presents many ideas--I liked them."

"I liked the presenter, Jonathan. Good stuff. Helpful. I appreciated the review on techniques and skills with families. Good stuff!!!"

"What I liked most was was about doing active listening rather than passive listening."

"I liked the hands on activities. There was nothing I didn't like. It was a great presentation. Very well presented."

"I most liked the experience of the speaker."

"Jonathan's energy, the handouts, ideas for working with parents. Very good job!!!"

"It was an interactive and fun learning experience."

"I liked the techniques and use of music."

"I enjoyed all the experiential stuff."

"I loved the building towers activity, the talk about engaging fathers and the songs."

"I liked the new info and ideas for therapy and how interactive it was."

"It was very interactive."

—Participant, All in the Family—Working with Families and Systems: Family Therapy Training and Techniques
Valley Mental Health Children’s Outpatient Team Training Retreat
Salt Lake City, UT, August 31, 2004.

Comments from: An Ounce of Prevention: Marketing Family Strengths by Taking Best Practices to the People.

"Great presentation. I'm interested in purchasing the whole series."

"An excellent presentation. It was all good."

"Good ideas."

"It moved well."

"I love speaking in front of people...but I am scared and don't feel qualified to put a group together. I may be inspired by today's workshop."

"Good speaker and interesting material. From this workshop I plan on learning new skills as I don't want to be complacent."

"Jonathan's manner of presenting was funny and not boring."

"Jonathan continued to hold my interest."

"The length was perfect: short and fast at the end of the day. I plan on implementing the public speaking tips."

"A lot of good info in a short time. It was all good. I plan on taking a risk and trying some of this myself."

"It was easy to follow and gave me practical ideas to use. The presenter is upbeat and fun—I didn't fall asleep!"

"Jonathan maintained my attention and I learned things that I can apply in my work."

"Good handouts. Good model."

"I really liked the whole presentation. Our presenter was full of life and very engaging with the audience. The information was very helpful and given in a flowing way."

"Great summary of prevention and getting started in it. I plan on implementing some of this with my client population."

"Very well done. This may help me progress on some goals. I do some public speaking and would like to do more. My only complaint: too short."

"Excellent presentation. I'll be checking your web site for more info."

"Good information. Well presented."

"I liked the emphasis on prevention reather than waiting until clietns have experienced crisis. I appreciate how the presenter focused on improving the audience and not only self. I liked him providing an activity to kep the audience involved. I plan to focus more more on prevention."

"Provided good help on when to adn how to implement programs."

"Very good information. Useful and practical."

"I liked how you modeled what you were talking about. Good job. I learned that I have something to share and I plan on sharing it."

"I have some good ideas to present to my clients as we go about our daily tasks. I have knowledge to share."

—Participants' comments from: An Ounce of Prevention: Marketing Family Strengths by Taking Best Practices to the People.
2004 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Good, excellent, superb, brilliant, life-altering! I'm going to work on these things to improve my relationship with my wife. I'm taking an extra copy to share with my wife."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"You're a very bad boy. I sat close to the door so I could leave early as I was tired. But you were so good and interesting that I couldn't help but stay!"

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"You have excellent presentatoin skills. You're good at engaging the audience and at fielding questions. Good flow. I study teachers and you did great!"

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"The presentation was interesting and not at all boring—like some others I've been too. Only wish we had more time to learn! Excellent."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Wonderful. Simple solutions. Presenter had good energy, was engaging, developed good interaction with the audience, kept on task but was able to entertain comments."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Very good. Well organized, good use of humor and good content."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Excellent. Presenter was well prepared, caring and great info!"

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Very good. I really liked the PowerPoint presentation and use of humor."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Easy, fun, applicable. Excellent."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"I mostly liked Jonathan's enthusiasm and his workable ideas. Well done."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"It was great! I was impressed about how communication is not necessarily the 'fix all' solution, but how there is more to making relationships work—such as mindsets, intentions and skills."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Exellent. Jonathan presented ideas I hadn't thought about before."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"I liked the energy and humor you expressed. Great job! Thanks a bunch."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"I liked the concept of how you would work things out even when there are serious problems. Excellent."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Very entertaining. The information was real and something that can be applied and used with clients. Not too complicated. Excellent job!"

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Great examples. Thanks!"

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Excellent. I liked everything!!"

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Very good. It's always good to hear another approach to better living. Very creative and fun."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"It made me realize that little things matter and to make the most of any moment or situation. Good variety of visual and verbal learning techniques. Very well done."

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Excellent. It was simple and easy to understand which will make it simple and easy for a family to understand, too. Also, it's easy to implement. Jonathan had great enthusiasm!!! He kept me awake at the end of a long day. I liked the comics!"

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"The presentation was solid, evidence-based and practical! Real life stuff. Excellent job!"

—Participant, Building Strong Families: A Strength-based, Community Family-life Education Model presented at the 2003 Utah Mental Health Conference

"Thank you for your report. I wish you would teach a class on how to write a therapy court report. Judges usually don't have enough information. People usually write so vaguely that it isn't helpful. Your report acknowldes the good and the bad."

—Jennifer Clark
Third District Court Clerk
Summit County, UT
(TCC)

Comments from Community Leaders

Dear Jonathan,

I can't thank you enough for your wonderful presentation [Dynamics of Domestic Violence: Problems and Solutions] at the Building Bridges Forum. I appreciate the time and energy you put into your presentation. Your presentation was engaging and informative. Once again, thank you so much. You really make a difference in the world!

Sincerely,

Tina Kohfield
Peace House, Inc.
Park City, UT

Complaints

Not to blow our own horn (TOOT!) but fact is we get very few complaints or criticisms in our presentation evaluations. The most common "complaint" we get is that the presentation was "too short" "wished it was longer" and "would like to learn more." We like the complimentary nature of these kind of complaints.

However, when we do get complaints, criticisms and suggestions we do our best to incorporate those suggestions into refining our presentations, styles, techniques, materials, etc. The vast majority of the time most suggestions are very helpful. We are very grateful for any feedback that can help us improve our delivery of these messages. The mission of creating "greatness in relationships" is so important that we need all the help we can get.

Just for fun, here's our favorite complaint/suggestion/criticism of all time. This was in response to "What didn't you like that could be improved and/or what would you like to see covered that wasn't?" The comment was:

"I'm sure you know."

—Making a Good Marriage Great Participant

The thing is we were sure we didn't know. The participant had given us a 6 out of a 10 (our lowest score yet! We generally range 8-10 w/ a 9.5 average) Too bad, because we really would have loved to know what the problem was. Hard to improve with that kind of feedback! Anyway, we got such a chuckle out of that one.

Bonus Trivia Question: That type of response is typical of which style of relating:

    A. Passive
    B. Assertive
    C. Aggressive
    D. Passive Aggressive

If you answered "D" go treat yourself to an ice cream cone. You're awesome! If you got it wrong, well then "we're sure you know" what to do!

Divorce Education Class Comments.

Most helpful thing about the course was...

"Key factors to co-parenting--respect, constructive communication, responsibility (both parties)."

"The reminder that each person goes through the griving process at differengt speeds."

"I was shocked. I had no idea it was so hard for th ekids. Recognizing my faults...realized that I say wasy too many negative things in fromnt of my kids. Thank you . The presenter did a GREAT job."

"Tlaking aobu thow the children feel."

"It served as a reminder of how we alraedy acted. You can tend to forget sometimes. Very good instructor. Great tool for many parents."

"Understanding the confusion. Very helpful. Thank you."

"The understanding of the stages the childrend go through."

"How to present the issues at hand to my ex-weife. All people should take this at the beginning of a divorce."

"Open discussion format."

"Child-centered approach. Good video, too."

"The discussion about the pragmatic, day to day aspects ofthe divorce process."

"The take home packet. The knowledge of the presenter. It was great!"

"Addressing actual issues we were all dealing with. Great!"

"Explanation of the stages of grief and parenting solutions."


© 2001-2009 Jonathan D. Sherman, Bardos Relationship Consulting. All rights reserved

© 2001-2007 Jonathan D. Sherman & Bardos Relationship Consulting. All rights reserved.