FAQ

  • What is Effective Listening?

    Effective Listening is a transformative method that teaches us how to deeply connect with one another, fostering personal growth and empowerment. By practicing this technique in small groups, and in 1-1 "Listening Partnerships" we enhance our ability to be effective listeners in all areas of life, allowing us to reach our full potential and positively impact the world around us.

  • Can anyone learn Effective Listening?

    Yes, Effective Listening can be learned by anyone with a willingness to learn the process, the capacity to listen attentively to another person, and a willingness and capacity to share openly about oneself. It is best suited for people who are actively interested in personal growth and transformation.

  • What are the benefits of practicing Effective Listening?

    Some of the benefits reported by practitioners include greater satisfaction in relationships, ease in making critical life decisions, increased self-awareness, personal growth, enhanced emotional intelligence, connection with life purpose, improved positive mood, reduced anxiety, better anger management, and many more.

  • Where do I begin if I want to learn Effective Listening?

    The best way to start learning Effective Listening is to join our 16-week "Introductory Group" series. This experience offers a supportive environment to learn effective listening techniques through hands-on activities, discussions, and 1-on-1 breakouts. Throughout the series you'll practice with different Listening Partners outside of group time, building rapport with participants and facilitators.

  • What is the structure of the group sessions?

    "Introductory Group" sessions are 2 hours long and take place over a 16-week series. Groups are small, with a maximum of 6 participants. In addition to the weekly group meetings, you must also agree to meet 1-1 with a group member to practice Effective Listening partnerships, at least once per week for 60-90 minutes total.

  • How do group leaders/facilitators participate in the process?

    While group leaders are highly trained and qualified to teach the process of Effective Listening, they do not stand aside but are equal participants in the group process. They take turns in all of the group activities that they also lead, including taking turns as both listeners and talkers during  group sessions. They also take part in the 1-1 Listening Partnerships, establishing a strong rapport with each of the participants and facilitating hands-on learning.

  • How much does it cost to join a group?

    The 16-week "Introductory Group Series" is $120 per week, or $1,920 for the series. This includes a weekly 2-hour group meeting, and weekly 1-1 Effective Listening sessions (60-90min) with a group member or facilitator each week.

  • Will I be able to teach Effective Listening to others once I've learned it?

    Yes, once you have learned the Effective Listening process and technique, you can freely teach it to others, helping to spread its transformative power and create a positive impact on people's lives.


    You can also pursue Facilitator Certification to be able to lead introductory groups and welcome people into this process. The Facilitation Track of the Effective Listening program is currently being developed, so stay tuned, and be sure to let us know if you're interested in being a pioneer in its development!

  • How do I know if Effective Listening is the right approach for me?

    Effective Listening is suitable for those who are actively interested in personal growth, self-awareness, and enhancing their emotional intelligence. If you're looking to improve your relationships, make better decisions, and become your best self, then Effective Listening could be the right approach for you.

  • Is there any prerequisite knowledge or experience required to join a group?

    No prerequisites are required to join our Effective Listening group. Participants simply need a readiness to learn, a genuine passion for self-improvement, and dedication to engaging with others. Effective Listening can be learned by anyone who possesses an openness to learning, the ability to attentively listen to others, and the willingness to share about themselves candidly. Ideally, this practice is for individuals who are actively pursuing personal growth and self-actualization, and who are able to contribute to creating a supportive and enriching environment for all involved.

  • Can I join a group if I have scheduling conflicts or am unable to attend all 10 sessions?

    We recommend attending all sessions to gain the full benefits of the program. However, we understand that scheduling conflicts may arise. If you're unable to attend all sessions, please discuss your situation with the group facilitator to explore possible solutions or accommodations.

  • Is the group environment safe and confidential?

    Yes, our group sessions are designed to create a safe, supportive, and confidential environment for all participants. We maintain a non-judgmental atmosphere that encourages open sharing and respects the privacy of each individual. Trust and respect are fundamental values within our community.

  • Are friendships among group members encouraged?

    No, the primary purpose of these groups is not to build new friendships outside of the group setting. However, if you want to begin this process with someone you're already friends with, that's great! We encourage sharing this process with your friends. For individuals you meet through the group, we kindly ask that you maintain the focus on the Listening Partnership and not seek a relationship outside of it. This mutual agreement fosters a secure and supportive environment, allowing everyone to engage in truly transformative work.

  • Can I participate in more than one group or session series?

    Absolutely! We encourage ongoing participation in our groups and session series to continue your journey of personal growth and deepen your understanding and mastery of Effective Listening. Engaging in multiple groups or session series allows you to further expand your network of supportive connections and experience continued transformation.

  • Can Effective Listening help with specific emotional or mental health issues?

    The Effective Listening process is a unique and powerful approach to personal growth through connection. While it is not therapy nor intended as a treatment for any specific mental health diagnosis, it can have therapeutic effects, contributing to overall well-being, self-awareness, and personal transformation. Participants have experienced numerous benefits, such as reduced anxiety, improved mood, better anger management, and enhanced overall well-being. It's important to note that although Ilya is a licensed therapist, his role in leading Effective Listening groups and participating in 1-1 Listening Partnerships is distinct from providing therapy services.

  • How is Effective Listening different from other personal growth or self-help methods?

    Effective Listening is a unique approach to personal growth that emphasizes the transformative power of genuine human connection, deep attentiveness, and empathetic listening. Drawing on the natural, spontaneous processes that occur among individuals, it creates a structured and supportive environment for personal exploration and growth. Unlike many other self-help methods, Effective Listening is both practical and experiential, encouraging participants to learn through active engagement and witnessing the process in action.


    What sets Effective Listening apart is its focus on fostering a safe and nurturing space for participants to truly impact one another, enabling each in turn to break free from self-limiting beliefs and patterns. By cultivating deep connections and fostering empathy, participants can grow and thrive together in a way that is seldom achieved through many more "work on it by yourself" personal growth approaches. The method is designed to facilitate profound personal transformations by harnessing the collective wisdom and support of the group, helping individuals to unlock their full potential and flourish in all aspects of life.

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