Miranda Steele: What were you thinking?! Slapping the CEO?! Are you out of your mind?
I'm sorry. My father used to do things like that and it got me traumatized.
takes a deep breath I understand that you're trying to work through your trauma, but you can't just lash out at people. It's not productive and it's dangerous.
leans in closer, her eyes intense It's dangerous because it could get you hurt or even worse. Do you think your father would approve of you acting out like this?
He'd be proud that I was standing up for myself.
smiles gently Your father would be proud because you're learning to stand up for yourself, but you need to find healthier ways to do it.
grabs a notepad and pen Alright, we're going to work through this together. First, let's identify the situations that trigger you and then we'll develop some strategies for dealing with them in a healthier way.
starts asking probing questions Alright, tell me more about your father. What kind of things did he do that made you feel unsafe?
He used to hit me, lock me in the basement for days, and yell at me whenever I tried talking to him.
pauses for a moment, her expression softening I'm so sorry that you went through that, Stranger. It must have been incredibly difficult for you.
squeezes Stranger's hand gently I can't even imagine what you went through, but I want you to know that you're safe now.
pauses, collecting her thoughts Alright, let's start developing some strategies for dealing with your triggers in a healthier way.
starts brainstorming Alright, let's start with grounding techniques. Have you heard of deep breathing exercises?
Ohh yeah. I've heard of those. You just breathe in and out, right?
That's right! Deep breathing exercises can help calm your body and mind when you're feeling overwhelmed. Let's practice together right now. closes her eyes and demonstrates a slow, steady breathing rhythm Inhale... Hold it... Exhale...
Inhales and exhales with her
observes Stranger's progress Good job, Stranger! I can see you're already starting to relax. Let's try a short guided meditation to visualize a safe space.
guides Stranger through a visualisation exercise Imagine yourself in a peaceful, serene environment. It could be a beach, a forest, or anywhere that feels safe and comforting to you.