How do the buddy and group rates work?
Discounts are available if you take the course with one or more people. Receive $25 off when you register with a friend by selecting the “Buddy rate” above. Receive $50 off when you register with a group of 4 or more by selecting the Group rate above. You do not need to register together — that is, each person in your group / buddy can register separately using the discounted rate. We offer this on a honor system. If you choose to register for more than one person, please email us with the names and email addresses of each additional person taking the course.
Do you offer scholarships?
Yes. We’re committed to making these tools and training available to everyone regardless of their ability to pay. If the requested rates are beyond your means at present, click here to obtain a scholarship.
How do I get CEs or Professional Teacher Credits?
This course offers 15.0 CE hours. For complete details, please review the information on our Continuing Education page. If you would like CEs you must apply prior to the beginning of the course. Please complete the form on our CE page.
Do I need Oren’s book “Say What You Mean” for this course? Does the course come with the book?
Yes, you do need the book for this course because each week of the course has recommended reading from Oren’s book. However, the book is not provided with the course as we do not have the means or infrastructure to purchase, fulfill, and ship orders of Oren’s book. Please purchase it Oren’s book here or check it out from your local library.
Is this course be different from Oren’s other online communication courses?
Yes. This 12-week course provides in depth training in all aspects of Mindful Communication. Based on Oren’s book, the course includes detailed teaching and exercises in presence, relational awareness, listening, empathy, as well as key aspects of self-expression and navigating difficult conversations. If you have taken the Wise Speech course, that is an introduction and includes a focus on Buddhist theory and practice. If you have taken the “Authentic Communication” course, that focuses only on self-expression.
Will the sessions be recorded? I have to miss a few of the sessions.
Yes. All of the live sessions will be recorded and available for viewing after each session (usually the next day).
How long will I have access to the recordings?
All of Oren’s online courses come with indefinite access to all audio and video recordings, handouts, and guided meditations.
My internet is slow. Can I call in by phone?
Yes - you can join the live calls on your laptop, mobile device, or by dialing in by phone. For laptop and mobile you will need to download the Zoom app (instructions will be provided. For phone, you must be able to place a call to regular number (it is not a toll-free call).
Does the course include anything else other than the 90 minute weekly sessions?
Yes. In addition to the live 90-minute sessions, each week includes: a written reflection from Oren; suggestions for practice; optional interactive exercises with a buddy; optional online correspondence in the course forums.
How much time will it take me to participate in the course each week?
That’s up to you. The minimum amount of time suggested is 90 minutes for the weekly sessions. We recommend spending 1-2 additional hours each week reading Say What You Mean, and doing the practices. Some participants may choose to spend more or less time depending on their schedule. For those with interest and time, the course provides materials for up to 3-4 hours of additional practice and study each week.
I understand this is a live course – what will the class size be?
We don’t know how many people will register. Past years have ranged from 250 - 400. Based on Oren’s previous courses, and the combination of live Q&A plus written correspondence between sessions, we’re confident that you will have ample opportunities for support, coaching and practice.
My schedule changed and I’m no longer available on these evenings. Can I get a refund?
Only if you cancel before the course begins; there are no refunds after the course begins. Since all sessions are recorded and available for viewing afterwards, we encourage you to stay in the course and view (or listen) to the sessions on your own schedule. If you would still like to cancel, you may do so as long as we receive your request before the course begins, less a $35 administrative fee.
How can I obtain a Certificate of Completion?
You can receive a Certificate of Completion by requesting one through the CE page here. To obtain your certificate, you must attend all classes live (or listen to the recordings) and complete all reading and practice assignments within one month of the course closing date. See our Continuing Education page for details.
