Adaptability: Meeting Clients Where They Are

By Robert Arthur, IACP President

Hi everyone,

As I write this, we are entering the final week of summer in my part of the world. The air is cooling, the days are growing shorter, and soon the leaves will start to turn. It’s been a busy month at IACP as we prepare for an active and exciting next few months.

In 
September, we’re hosting four Conversation Time events! In addition to our usual gatherings for MHPs, Attorneys, and Financial Professionals, we’ll hold our first-ever Conversation Time for Mediators—a popular request we’re excited to offer. If mediation is part of your practice, I hope you will register and take part.


Also, a quick reminder: IACP members receive a special discount for the Canadian Collaborative Rocky Mountain Conference (CCRMC), taking place November 6–9, 2025. I will be presenting a workshop on attracting to and supporting young professionals in Collaborative Practice—one of my top priorities this year. Don’t miss out: the discount expires September 12!  The code can be found in the Member Portal.

As part of my Presidential year, I’m continuing my monthly reflections on the 
Ten Pillars of Collaborative Practice. Last month, we explored Holistic Support. This month’s focus is our third Pillar: Adaptability.

Each of the Ten Pillars is a value statement—not listed in order of importance. The first four describe values we express through our work. Here is the full statement on 
Adaptability:


Through Collaborative Practice, we customize conflict resolution methods to meet the specific situation and needs of everyone involved.

This Pillar is one of my favorites because it highlights a key strength of Collaborative Practice. When I introduce clients to the process, many are drawn to the idea that their team will respond and adapt to their unique needs. 


Everyone wants to be heard. In Collaborative Practice, we do not just listen—we adapt. We build a process around their evolving needs, and we keep adjusting until resolution.

Next month: 
Open Communication.


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