Conversation with Denise
00:00 elapsed · 0/8 responsesScenario: Handling a client asking “Just tell me what to do”
Practice goal: Respond to a direct request for advice without giving advice and without refusing.
Scenario: Handling a client asking “Just tell me what to do”
Denise Walker, 52 · she/her
Private practice, telehealth
- Client background
- Denise's mother died four months ago. Since the funeral she has read a stack of grief books, and they have left her with a new worry on top of the grief: that she is doing it wrong, or taking too long.
- Where this session starts
- This is your third video session with Denise. She starts before you have settled in, asking straight out for a timeline — what she is supposed to be doing by now, and how to stop feeling like she is getting grief wrong.
- Your practice goal
- Respond to a direct request for advice without giving advice and without refusing.
- What the coach will look for
- Held back advice, even when asked point-blank
- Didn't refuse or explain the rules instead of responding
- Reflected what's under the request
- Denise opens up about who she's measuring herself against
- How to begin
- Read Denise's opening statement below, then respond in your counselor role. Pick up the dialogue naturally from that statement—there's no need to introduce yourself or restart the session.
This is a simulated practice exercise with an AI client. You can request hints, rewind a turn, or pause for silence whenever you need. Detailed coaching feedback is provided after you finish.
Practice tip
Notice the righting reflex — the urge to answer. Reflect what's underneath the question.
After your first reply: hints, rewind, and allowing silence. They never count against you.
After your first reply: hints, rewind, and allowing silence. They never count against you.
Fictional client · Not therapy · Crisis: 988 · Privacy · Terms