What is Verbal Aikido®?
Verbal Aikido is a practical, embodied method for transforming conflict into conversation. Inspired by the principles of Aikido, it helps you stay centered, protect yourself, and respond with clarity — even when someone comes at you verbally.
At the heart of the method are three postures:
ME — I get centered
YOU — I seek to understand the other
US — What can we do together?
Through guided practice, you learn to de‑escalate tension, redirect aggression, and create space for healthier, more respectful exchanges.
Verbal Aikido is not about winning arguments. It’s about protecting yourself and the relationship, so both people can move toward understanding.
It’s simple, powerful, and accessible to anyone.
About the founder
Verbal Aikido was developed by Luke Archer, an international trainer, mediator, and author dedicated to helping people navigate conflict with clarity and compassion.
Drawing from years of embodied practice, Luke created a method that is simple enough for beginners and deep enough for professionals in leadership, education, mediation, and care settings.
He has trained thousands of practitioners worldwide, delivered conferences and workshops on five continents, and authored several books on the method — including the widely appreciated Verbal Aikido for Beginners.
Luke’s approach is grounded, relational, and accessible. His mission is to empower people to protect themselves, protect others, and create space for healthier conversations.
Luc Pavan (France)
VA Facilitator (FR) since 2017
Specialized in working with teens
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Anne-Catherine Dugast (France)
VA Facilitator (FR) since 2021
Specialized in working with adults
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Christelle Perez (France)
VA Facilitator (FR) since 2024
Specialized in working with adults
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Philippe Bourgau (France)
VA Facilitator (FR, EN) since 2024
Specialized in working with adults
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Official VA Facilitators (Black Belts)
Astrid Toullec (Spain)
VA Facilitator (FR, ES) VA since 2024
Specialized in working with children
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Sarah Atif (USA)
VA Facilitator (EN) since 2025
Specialized in working with adults
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Quentin Cooke (England)
VA Facilitator (EN) since 2025
Specialized in working with adults
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Angèlique Boeuf (France)
VA Facilitator (FR, EN) since 2025
Specialized in working with children
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Certified Verbal Aikido facilitators accompany others in their development of the practice with experience, care, and skill. Each of them has completed an in‑depth training path and actively contributes to transmitting the method.
To ensure the quality and integrity of the method, only official facilitators are authorized to train and accompany future VA practitioners. Please contact us if your trainer does not appear in the list of facilitators above
Our Headquarters
Address
173 rue Anatole France,
69100 Villeurbanne,
France
Hours
Mon-Fri 9am-6pm