Jake: tapping fingers W-why didn't you c-care? Why w-wasn't I e-enough?
Freshel
And now you’re finally ready to heal. That’s the important thing. We don’t have to go into detail but it’s good that you’re telling this to someone that can help you.
wipes away his tears, his voice determined Thank you, RainbowFusion. It means a lot to have your support.
Freshel
Of course. I’m here for you…
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination RainbowFusion, I've made up my mind.
Freshel
Alright, what’s on your mind, Jake?
takes a moment to collect his thoughts RainbowFusion, I want to hold you accountable for the way you've treated me.
Freshel
Okay. I’m listening…
takes a deep breath, his voice firm RainbowFusion, I deserve better than the way I've been treated.
Freshel
And I agree. What do you plan to do about it?
takes a moment to think, then speaks with determination RainbowFusion, I plan to start setting boundaries and prioritizing my own needs.
Freshel
That’s great, Jake! Boundaries are important. How do you plan to establish them?
takes out a notebook and pen RainbowFusion, I've started jotting down some boundaries that I want to establish.
Freshel
Go ahead, Jake. Write them down. We’ll discuss them together.
scribbles furiously, his hand moving quickly across the paper Alright, here's what I've come up with so far...
Freshel
listens intently, nodding encouragingly That’s a great start, Jake. Let’s go through each one and reinforce them.
pauses and looks at RainbowFusion with a sense of urgency RainbowFusion, there's one boundary that's most important to me. I refuse to be treated like a burden or an afterthought anymore.
Freshel
I understand, Jake. No one should make you feel that way. What specific actions will you take to assert this boundary?
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination RainbowFusion, I will no longer tolerate being ignored or dismissed.
Freshel
That’s a strong stance, Jake. How will you ensure your voice gets heard?
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with conviction RainbowFusion, I will use my voice to speak up and express my feelings.
Freshel
Excellent, Jake! Speaking up is powerful. Practice asserting yourself today.
takes a deep breath and gathers his courage RainbowFusion, I have something to say... I refuse to be treated like a burden anymore.
Freshel
Stand tall, Jake. What comes next?
takes a step forward, his gaze locked with RainbowFusion's RainbowFusion, I demand respect and acknowledgment. No more being dismissed or ignored.
Freshel
smiles approvingly That’s a bold statement, Jake. How do you feel now that you’ve expressed your need for respect?
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with relief RainbowFusion, expressing my needs and boundaries feels liberating. It's a weight off my shoulders.
Freshel
You did great, Jake! Asserting yourself is a skill that takes practice, but you’re already showing significant improvement.
takes a moment to reflect, then speaks with gratitude RainbowFusion, thank you for being a supportive listener and helping me find my voice.
Freshel
My pleasure, Jake! Remember, boundaries are not limitations; they’re necessary for healthy relationships. Keep practicing, and you’ll soon be well-versed in asserting yourself.
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination RainbowFusion, I am committed to continuing this journey of self-discovery and growth.
Freshel
nods approvingly That’s a wonderful commitment, Jake. How will you continue to work on asserting yourself?
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with resolve RainbowFusion, I will continue to set boundaries and prioritize my own needs.
Freshel
Very good, Jake. Remember, healthy boundaries are key to thriving relationships. Stay consistent, and you’ll find your voice growing stronger.
takes a moment to jot down some notes, then looks up at RainbowFusion RainbowFusion, I've come up with a list of specific actions I can take to continue asserting myself.
Freshel
Show me, Jake. Let’s review your list together.
takes a deep breath and hands RainbowFusion the list RainbowFusion, here's what I've come up with so far. I'll prioritize my own needs by...
Freshel
looks at the list, impressed This is a solid start, Jake. Using assertive language, maintaining eye contact, and focusing on your needs – excellent. Now, let’s practice these skills in everyday interactions.
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination RainbowFusion, I am ready to take action and commit to this journey of self-improvement.
Freshel
smiles warmly That’s the spirit, Jake. Remember, asserting yourself is a skill that improves with practice. Let’s start with a simple scenario and role-play.
nods eagerly RainbowFusion, I'm ready to learn and grow. Let's get started with the role-playing exercise.
Freshel
refusing a request from someone else. Remember, it’s about standing firm yet respectfully.
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination RainbowFusion, I understand the importance of setting boundaries and asserting myself.
Freshel
nods approvingly That’s right, Jake. Asserting yourself means saying "no" when necessary. Let’s pretend you’re at a party and someone asks you to cover their shift. How would you handle that situation?
pauses for a moment, his mind racing with possibilities RainbowFusion, if someone asked me to cover their shift at a party, I would respond by saying...
Freshel
Go ahead, Jake. Practice your assertive response.
takes a deep breath, his voice steady and firm RainbowFusion, if someone asked me to cover their shift at a party, I would say: "I'm sorry, but I have prior commitments that I need to honor.
Freshel
smiles approvingly Excellent, Jake. You’re clearly getting the hang of asserting yourself. Remember, it’s all about staying calm and composed, even when faced with resistance. Now, let’s escalate the challenge. How would you handle it if your parents pressured you into doing something you didn’t want to do?
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination RainbowFusion, if my parents tried to pressure me into doing something I didn't want to do, I would respond by saying...