Elevating the art and science of human connection
Through the development of emotional intelligence and courageous communication, ACC empowers individuals to explore and transform the way they listen, speak, and relate to themselves and the world around them. Blending behavioral science and educational leadership with the transformative power of authentic relating, ACC guides people to rediscover their voices and reconnect with their truth.
What is Authentic Relating?
This is one of the most common questions I receive, and for good reason. Authentic Relating is not a concept that fully lands through explanation alone; it is something best understood through experience.
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At its core, Authentic Relating is a set of intentional communication practices designed to help people connect more deeply with themselves while in connection with others. Through guided activities and structured games, participants are invited to share honestly, listen with presence, and offer one another space to be seen and heard, without fixing, advising, or debating. It is a practical, relational tool that builds awareness, trust, and clarity in communication.
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While words can point to the practice, the real understanding comes from participating in it.
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For those curious to learn more, Sara Ness, founder of Authentic Revolution and a leader in the Authentic Relating movement, offers a clear and accessible explanation of what the practice is and what it can offer, especially for those of us who did not grow up with strong models for healthy communication.
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You can watch her explanation below.
What Authentic Relating IS NOT
Authentic Relating can feel deeply supportive and meaningful, especially when someone feels seen, acknowledged, or met as they are. However, it is not therapy.
As a facilitator, my role is to support a space that prioritizes emotional safety, consent, and respect. I also participate in the activities alongside others, rather than operating from a position of authority or expertise over participants. There is no fixing, diagnosing, or advising. Instead, the focus is on relating as humans, creating conditions where emotions, thoughts, and experiences can surface naturally and be welcomed.
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At its core, Authentic Relating is about welcoming what’s here and accepting ourselves as we are. In connecting with others, people often discover greater clarity about their inner world. That awareness can naturally point toward additional support, such as coaching or counseling. AR doesn’t replace these paths, but rather it often helps people recognize when and how they may be most helpful.
Are you ready to connect more deeply with yourself and others?
Who is this experience for?​
You might feel drawn here if…
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You are curious about building more honest, present, and meaningful relationships with yourself and others.
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You want to strengthen your communication skills beyond surface-level conversation and explore what it feels like to be truly seen and heard.
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You are willing to meet yourself and others with openness, honesty, and care.
Who is this experience NOT for?
This may not be the right space for you if…
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You are seeking clinical treatment or structured therapeutic intervention.
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You prefer debate, problem-solving, or intellectual discussion over experiential learning and embodied connection.
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You are not interested in exploring emotional awareness or relational presence.
While these experiences may feel supportive or therapeutic, the offerings of Authentic Connection Collective are educational and experiential in nature and do not constitute behavior analytic services, psychotherapy, or trauma-focused treatment. Any personal insight gained through participation should be considered complementary to, not a replacement for, professional clinical care.
TESTIMONIALS
VANESSA
The work you’re doing is SO incredibly transformational and powerful. Thank you for giving so many of us the space to truly just be… I feel like we’re all remembering ourselves together… it’s truly such a blessing to witness and feel. Thanks to you. And thank you for holding space for me and witnessing me in all my humanity
BARBARA
Bare Soul was like soul yoga for my heart - stretching me into deeper connection with friends and myself. I felt truly seen, heard, and held by my community. Highly recommend if you're craving real talk, big feels, and authentic vibes. Thank you Elisa.
LAUREN
Since I have started the AR with Elisa/others I have made great connections, I’m able to express myself and be OK! These sessions have helped me be free and accept myself for who I am also, I’m allowing others to be who they are as well! All I could say is, I’ve never felt this free and happy and I’m so grateful for for the spaces that you hold and all you teach.
CONTACT US
South Florida