Psychological Health and Safety Lab

Psychological Health and Safety Lab

Transforming Workplace Culture: Tools for creating a less soul-crushing workplace (Jan. 23rd, 2025)

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January 28th, 2025
12:00pm - 5:00pm (AST)
Tickets are free

From Blame to Balance: Building Safety in tough conversations

"We don't rise to the level of our expectations, we fall to the level of our systems—and our nervous systems are part of that."

In this session, we’ll explore one of the most challenging dynamics in addressing workplace harassment: how the very conversations meant to improve safety can sometimes feel unsafe themselves.

When individuals speak up about harassment, they may encounter defensiveness, silence, or blame. Even well-meaning attempts to “fix” the issue can inadvertently activate fear, shame, or the need to assign right and wrong. These reactions stall progress and undermine psychological safety, which is essential for real change.

That’s where psychological flexibility comes in.

Through the ACT Matrix, we’ll introduce a simple, science-backed tool that helps leaders, facilitators, and HR professionals guide conversations away from rigid, blame-focused responses and toward openness, curiosity, and values-driven action.

This session isn’t just about theory—it’s about real-time facilitation tools for handling high-stakes moments with greater skill and care.

🧠 Guiding Questions for Discussion:

What does “safety” look like—for both the complainant and the accused?

Where have blame or right/wrong narratives shut down dialogue?
How can the ACT Matrix help shift defensiveness into openness?
What role does psychological flexibility play when emotions run high?
What helps you stay grounded and non-reactive as a facilitator?

👤 Featured Presenter: Ronald E. Pizzo

Labour & Employment Lawyer | Workplace Coach | Certified ACT Matrix Facilitator

Ron Pizzo brings 35+ years of experience in conflict resolution, mediation, and leadership coaching. A partner at Pink Larkin, Ron specializes in helping organizations resolve sensitive workplace issues while preserving trust, respect, and collaboration.

His approach—grounded in both legal expertise and psychological science—focuses on developing practical communication tools that leaders and facilitators can use to create safety, even in highly charged situations.