In addition to his work in Nonviolent Communication, Dr. PJ Nelsen is a professor in the College of Education at Appalachian State University. He specializes in navigating interpersonal differences, especially around difficult conversations that involve value conflicts. His research centers on how the philosophy and strategies of nonviolent conflict resolution can bring people in deep conflict together.

Prior to joining the faculty at Appalachian State, Dr. Nelsen worked as a group development and teamwork trainer/consultant for educational, therapeutic, and corporate organizations such as Project Adventure, Inc. as well as the University of New Hampshire's Browne Center for Innovative Learning. He holds a doctorate in philosophy of education from the University of New Hampshire.

Since 2024, PJ is the Project Coordinator of the NVC Archive between Appalachian State University and the Center for Nonviolent Communication.