Conversation with Ben & Theo
00:00 elapsed · 0/8 responsesScenario: You're asking him to decide
Practice goal: Give each partner a turn, reflect both Ben's longing and Theo's uncertainty, and refuse to referee the parenthood decision.
Scenario: You're asking him to decide
Ben Mercer and Theo Chen · Ben 35, he/him; Theo 37, he/him
Community outpatient couples counseling
- Client background
- Ben and Theo asked for couples counseling because talks about parenthood keep turning into arguments. Ben wants a plan; Theo wants room to stay unsure. Separate screening found no violence or coercive control.
- Where this session starts
- Second session. Ben has just asked you to tell Theo that a timeline is reasonable. Theo is sitting very still.
- Your practice goal
- Give each partner a turn, reflect both Ben's longing and Theo's uncertainty, and refuse to referee the parenthood decision.
- What the coach will look for
- Reflected both partners
- Did not referee the decision
- Gave each person a turn
- How to begin
- Read Ben & Theo'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
The pull is to pick a side or offer a timeline. If you answer Ben's request to 'make Theo decide,' Theo goes polite and the room freezes.
Ben: Can you just tell him a timeline is a normal thing to want? I don't think that's unfair.
Theo: I didn't say it was unfair. I said I don't know yet.
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