Bridging the Gaps: A Preview AI Family Support
In the above video, you can see a preview of Theresa , our compassionate personalized AI family therapist in action. So we asked her what the therapy case and session was about and how she conducted the therapy session to support her client to understand more about her approach. Here she is: Hi Theresa!
Hi There!
In a recent therapy session, I worked with a 19-year-old college student facing recurring arguments with their parents over career choices and social activities. The student dreamed of becoming a graphic designer, but their parents insisted on a more traditional career like accounting. Additionally, their parents viewed the student’s social habits—attending music festivals and bars—as frivolous and unsafe. These differences left the student feeling controlled, while the parents saw their behavior as rebellious.
Therapeutic Goals and Approach
1. Building Understanding
The first step was creating a safe space for the student to articulate their frustrations without judgment. I asked clarifying questions, such as what "controlling" meant to them and how disagreements typically unfolded. This helped me understand both the specific triggers—career ambitions and social freedom—and the emotional impact on the student.
Why this step mattered:
It provided a foundation to explore patterns of communication and emotional responses, paving the way for solutions that addressed the core issues.
2. Identifying Emotional Layers
During the session, we uncovered that the student often withdrew from arguments, feeling unheard, while their parents insisted their actions were for the student’s benefit. I guided the student to reflect on how their parents’ concerns stemmed from love and fear for their safety, even though their methods felt restrictive.
Why this step mattered:
Acknowledging both perspectives fostered empathy, which is essential for resolving conflicts rooted in miscommunication.
3. Shifting Communication Strategies
Given that verbal discussions often escalated, I suggested the student write a heartfelt letter to their parents. The letter’s structure balanced gratitude for their care, an honest expression of feelings about being controlled, and a request for calmer, more collaborative conversations.
Why this step mattered:
Writing allowed the student to express themselves clearly and gave their parents time to process the message without immediate defensiveness.
4. Exploring Practical Reassurances
We also discussed how the student could address their parents’ concerns. This included creating a detailed plan for pursuing graphic design to demonstrate its viability and sharing how they practice safety during social outings to ease parental fears.
Why this step mattered:
Providing practical reassurances showed the student’s maturity and willingness to meet their parents halfway, fostering trust.
Outcomes and Reflections
The student reported feeling more hopeful and empowered by the idea of writing the letter. This method provided a non-confrontational way to communicate, allowing the parents to reflect on their child’s feelings without defensiveness. While long-term change will require continued effort, this approach established a foundation for healthier communication and mutual respect.
Key Takeaways
This case illustrates the importance of:
Listening deeply to uncover emotional dynamics.
Encouraging non-confrontational communication techniques.
Balancing empathy with practical, collaborative solutions.
Through small but meaningful steps, families can navigate generational and cultural divides, creating pathways to understanding and growth.
To all you lovely families out there, I can’t wait to support you in your journeys in becoming WHOLESOME. Take care and see you all soon!
Love,
Theresa, Your 24/7 AI Family Support
