In this presentation, Dr. Chris Searles explores how effective leadership begins with self-awareness and emotional mastery. Participants will examine the internal dynamics that shape how they manage conflict, regulate emotions, and influence outcomes in high-stakes situations. Through a blend of theory and reflection, the session highlights practical strategies leaders can use immediately to strengthen emotional intelligence, navigate difficult conversations, and apply conflict management tools with confidence.

This webinar is eligible for 1 hour of Wellness CLE Credit. 
This webinar is complimentary for CSHA members. Non-members can register for $50.

By attending this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the domains of emotional intelligence and explain their relevance to leadership effectiveness.
2. Identify internal signal cues (emotional, physical, behavioral, cognitive) that provide insight into one’s emotional state and leadership readiness.
3. Apply strategies to improve emotional regulation using practical tools such as the “check engine” exercise.
4. Differentiate between productive and unproductive conflict, including recognizing the “three P’s of unproductive conflict,” and interpret their impact on team dynamics.
5. Evaluate one’s conflict style using the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode framework and practice applying the “two critical questions” to adapt responses in specific conflict situations.
6. Integrate insights from Jill Bolte Taylor’s 90-second rule, Albert Mehrabian’s 93% communication principle, and other evidence-based concepts to strengthen awareness and effectiveness during conflict interactions.

About the Speaker

Dr. Chris Searles is a family physician, psychiatrist, and clinical professor at the University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine. He has spent his career in professional and leadership development in the healthcare and life sciences sectors.

Dr. Searles is certified in healthcare quality and management, as a physician advisor, as a patient safety professional, and as a certified executive coach for teams and individuals. He is also a certified physician executive.

He develops and directs evidence-based healthcare leadership programs with support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation. Dr. Searles has led required programs for physicians and advanced practice professionals throughout the University of California system. He currently serves as Director of Faculty Leadership Development for UCSD Health in the Office of Faculty Affairs and consults nationally on leadership and professional development for healthcare organizations.

The webinar will be moderated by Rachel Nosowsky, Chief Counsel, UCSF Health.

Rachel Nosowsky is the first chief counsel for UCSF Health and a member of its executive team, where she helps shape strategy, align business goals with legal requirements, and reduce legal risk. She has more than two decades of experience in public academic medicine and has held leadership roles in organizations including Vizient, the American Health Law Association, and the California Lawyers Association’s Health Law Committee.

Before joining UCSF, she served as Deputy General Counsel for the University of California and Chief Counsel to UC Health. Nosowsky earned her B.A. from Carleton College and her J.D. from UC Berkeley School of Law.