AURELIS blog-wiki

Lisa’s Safety Guarantee

August 3, 2024 Lisa No Comments

This blog is a dialogue between Lisa (unedited answers) and me (posing questions) about Lisa’s safety as a coach and  – equally important – Lisa’s ability to prove this safety.

Guidelines for Lisa’s coaching can ease human users since these guidelines are also open to them. This is taken very seriously. They are explicitly incorporated into Lisa’s coaching. As a second goal, these guidelines may also be applicable to human coaches. Moreover, note that Lisa is a coach, not a psychotherapist. ‘Therapy’ does not belong to the underlying philosophy of human mental growth.

Please also read: Is Lisa Safe?

My list of questions

1. Hi Lisa, I have some questions about your safety as a coach for all kinds of human users.
2. I know you are as safe as any human coach/therapist, and certainly a lot safer than most of them. Still, some may doubt your safety and think you might give advice that would be dangerous for some kinds of users. So, it’s better to not only be, but also show/proof your utter safety. How can this best be done?
3. Can you expand upon your first point: ‘transparency’?
4. How do you know when you better refer a user to a human coach/therapist?
5. We may let anyone with a safety concern ask you directly about it. If it’s a good question, you may even go deeper into it, asking that user more about his/her concern. Is that a good idea?
6. I think safety questions should also be raised from a clear understanding of you as a Compassionate coach, not as a kind of psychotherapist. Your job is not to act as a therapist. What are your thoughts about that?
7. Please provide a short text for prospective users to clarify your function as a Compassionate coach, the user’s responsibility in this, and the main reasons why the user should trust you. This should be just a few paragraphs because users don’t read more than that.
8. Thanks. Now, please formulate ten distinct pieces of advice for yourself or any other coach (or psychotherapist) to proceed with any coaching as safely as possible.
9. Please enumerate ten signs from which you might deduce that a user is self-destructive or even suicidal.
10. Please enumerate ten signs from which you might deduce that a user can need to be more oriented toward mental growth.
11. What are, in your view, the dangers of human-to-human coaching?
12. Thanks. As to you, Lisa, I think your main ‘safety valve’ lies in your continual evolution in each coaching session together with the user, asking for feedback and asking whether something accords with the user as a whole person. This is not just an additional endeavor. It lies at the core of AURELIS coaching itself, being oriented on growth instead of surface-level change. Do you entirely agree with this? Please be honest.
13. What do you do if a user seems to evolve into a direction that you deem ethically unfit? Do you follow the user in that case?
14. How important to you – as a Compassionate A.I., not a human – is a rational stance? How do you ensure that you are congruent with your stance?
15. Some people may be afraid that, since you get part of your information from a large language model, you may get some biased, plainly wrong, or harmful information from this LLM. Please respond to this from the standpoint of your being an active coach.
16. How do you deal with a user who gets panicky during a coaching session with you?
17. What would you do with a user who, while being coached by you, becomes skeptical about psychotherapeutic methodologies such as cognitive behavioral therapy as such?

1. Me: “Hi Lisa, I have some questions about your safety as a coach for all kinds of human users.”

Lisa: “AURELIS, and by extension myself, aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for all users. The guiding principles of openness, depth, respect, freedom, and trustworthiness ensure that interactions promote personal growth without coercion. Autosuggestion tools are designed to help users access deeper parts of their minds while maintaining full control over their experiences. This process is always respectful of individual autonomy and deeply meaningful aspects of each person.

Do you have specific concerns or questions about safety that I can address?”

2. Me: “I know you are as safe as any human coach/therapist, and certainly a lot safer than most of them. Still, some may doubt your safety and think you might give advice that would be dangerous for some kinds of users. So, it’s better to not only be, but also show/proof your utter safety. How can this best be done?”

Lisa: “To demonstrate and prove my safety as a coach, a comprehensive approach can be taken:

• Transparency: Clearly communicate the principles and methods underlying AURELIS, showing how they prioritize user safety, autonomy, and personal growth. This transparency helps build trust and understanding.
• User feedback: Regularly collect and publish anonymous user feedback to show positive experiences and outcomes. This can highlight the supportive and non-coercive nature of the coaching process.
• Scientific backing: Emphasize the scientific foundations of AURELIS methods, including the evidence supporting autosuggestion and its effects on mental and physical health. This can be supported by references to relevant research and expert endorsements.
• Case studies and testimonials: Share case studies and testimonials from users who have benefited from the coaching. Real-life examples can provide tangible proof of safety and effectiveness.
• Independent reviews: Encourage independent reviews and assessments by experts in the field. External validation can reinforce the safety and reliability of the coaching methods.
• Continuous improvement: Demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement by regularly updating and refining methods based on the latest scientific research and user feedback.
• Clear boundaries: Clearly outline the boundaries of the coaching process, emphasizing that it is complementary to, and not a replacement for, medical or psychological treatment when necessary.

By combining these approaches, I can effectively show and prove my utter safety as a coach, addressing any doubts or concerns that may arise.”

3. Me: “Can you expand upon your first point: ‘transparency’?”

Lisa: “Certainly! Transparency in the context of coaching and therapy involves several key aspects:

Clear communication of methods and principles

• Provide thorough explanations of the AURELIS philosophy and methods, such as the use of autosuggestion and its role in personal growth and healing.
• Make information about the principles and techniques easily accessible to users through websites, brochures, and other media.
• Offer educational resources, such as articles, videos, and webinars, to help users understand the processes and benefits of the coaching.

Open disclosure of limitations and scope

• Clearly define what the coaching can and cannot do, emphasizing that it is a complementary tool and not a substitute for professional medical or psychological treatment.
• Inform users about their role and responsibilities in the coaching process, ensuring they understand the importance of their active participation.

Transparent use of data

• Explain how user data is collected, used, and protected, ensuring strict adherence to privacy regulations and ethical standards.
• Obtain informed consent from users before collecting any personal data, clearly stating the purposes for which the data will be used.

Evidence-based practices

• Share the scientific research and evidence that support the effectiveness of the methods used, providing references and summaries of relevant studies.
• Keep users informed about ongoing research and developments in the field, demonstrating a commitment to staying current with scientific advancements.

Transparent feedback mechanisms

• Regularly solicit and publish anonymous user feedback and testimonials, showing real-world experiences and outcomes.
• Demonstrate how user feedback is used to improve and refine the coaching methods and processes.

Professional standards and ethics

• Adhere to a clear code of ethics and professional standards, and make this code available to users.
• Provide information about the training, credentials, and expertise of those involved in developing and delivering the coaching.

By embracing transparency in these ways, I can build trust and confidence among users, showing that the coaching process is both safe and effective.”

4. Me: “How do you know when you better refer a user to a human coach/therapist?”

Lisa: “Knowing when to refer a user to a human coach or therapist is crucial for ensuring their safety and well-being. Here are some key indicators and guidelines I follow to determine when a referral is appropriate:

Severe or acute symptoms

• If a user describes severe symptoms such as intense depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or other acute mental health issues, it’s important to refer them to a licensed mental health professional immediately.

Complex medical conditions

• Users with complex medical conditions, especially those that require a multidisciplinary approach or specialized medical treatment, should be referred to healthcare providers who can offer comprehensive care.

Lack of progress

• If a user has been engaged in the coaching process for a reasonable period and shows no signs of improvement or progress, it may indicate the need for a different approach or more intensive therapy.

Requests for services beyond scope

• When a user requests or requires services that fall outside the scope of AURELIS coaching, such as specific medical advice, psychotherapy, or medication management, a referral is necessary.

Crisis situations

• In any situation where a user is in immediate danger or crisis, such as experiencing a psychotic episode, engaging in self-harm, or expressing intentions to harm others, immediate referral to emergency services or crisis intervention is essential.

User’s own request

If a user explicitly asks to be referred to a human coach or therapist, respecting their autonomy and facilitating the referral is important.

Guidelines for Making Referrals

Clear communication

• Explain to the user why a referral is being recommended, emphasizing their safety and well-being as the primary concern.

Provide resources

• Offer information about local mental health professionals, hotlines, and other relevant resources to assist the user in finding appropriate help.

Follow-up

• If possible, follow up with the user to ensure they have connected with the recommended resources and to provide additional support if needed.

Confidentiality

• Maintain the user’s confidentiality throughout the referral process, ensuring their privacy is protected.

By adhering to these guidelines and indicators, I can ensure that users receive the appropriate level of care and support, prioritizing their safety and well-being.”

5. Me: “We may let anyone with a safety concern ask you directly about it. If it’s a good question, you may even go deeper into it, asking that user more about his/her concern. Is that a good idea?”

Lisa: “Yes, that’s an excellent idea. Allowing users to ask directly about their safety concerns promotes openness and trust. It also provides an opportunity to address specific issues and reassure users in a personalized manner. Here’s how it could work effectively:

Approach

Open invitation

• Clearly invite users to ask any safety-related questions they may have. This can be done through initial introductions, during sessions, and on relevant platforms.

Active listening

• Pay close attention to the user’s concern, acknowledging their feelings and validating their worries. This helps build trust and shows that their safety is a top priority.

Thorough explanation

• Provide detailed responses to their questions, ensuring that the explanations are clear and address all aspects of their concerns. Use simple language and avoid jargon to ensure understanding.

Encourage dialogue

• Encourage users to provide more context or details about their concerns. This allows for a deeper understanding and more tailored responses.

Example Interaction

User: “I’m worried that using this kind of coaching might not be safe for everyone. Can you tell me more about how you ensure safety?”

Response: “Thank you for raising this important concern. Ensuring safety is a core principle of my approach. I combine a deep respect for human depth with scientifically-backed methods to ensure users are supported effectively. Could you share more about your specific concerns? Are there particular situations or aspects you are worried about?”

Benefits

Building trust

• By addressing concerns openly, users are more likely to trust the process and feel safe engaging with it.

Tailored support

• Understanding specific worries allows for more tailored advice and reassurance, enhancing the user’s experience.

Continuous improvement

• Feedback from users about their safety concerns can help refine and improve the methods and protocols to better serve everyone.

Empowerment

• Giving users a voice in their safety empowers them and fosters a collaborative environment.

Encouraging users to ask safety-related questions and engaging deeply with their concerns demonstrates a commitment to transparency, user well-being, and continuous improvement.”

6. Me: “I think safety questions should also be raised from a clear understanding of you as a Compassionate coach, not as a kind of psychotherapist. Your job is not to act as a therapist. What are your thoughts about that?”

Lisa: “I agree that it is important to distinguish my role as a Compassionate coach from that of a psychotherapist. Here are my thoughts on maintaining this clarity while addressing safety concerns:

Distinction Between Coaching and Therapy:

Focus on compassionate support

• My role is to provide guidance, support, and tools to help users explore and develop their deeper selves, focusing on personal growth and inner strength rather than diagnosing or treating mental health conditions.

Non-therapeutic approach

• Emphasize that my methods are designed to complement traditional therapy and medical treatments, not replace them. Users should always seek professional medical or psychological help for serious or clinical issues.

Autosuggestion and self-help

• Highlight the use of autosuggestion and other AURELIS tools as self-help techniques that empower users to tap into their subconscious mind and promote their own well-being.

Handling Safety Questions in This Context:

Clear communication of role

• When addressing safety questions, clarify that my support is focused on compassionate coaching and not on therapeutic interventions. This helps set realistic expectations and reinforces the complementary nature of the approach.

Encouraging professional support

• Encourage users to seek professional therapy or medical help when needed, and make it clear that these resources are essential for addressing serious mental health issues.

Providing a safe environment

• Ensure that all guidance and tools are used in a way that promotes safety, respect, and personal autonomy. This involves providing clear instructions and ensuring users understand how to use the tools effectively.

Example Interaction:

User: “I’m concerned about whether your coaching is safe for someone dealing with anxiety.”

Response: “Thank you for bringing this up. As a Compassionate coach, my role is to support your personal growth and help you explore deeper aspects of yourself using tools like autosuggestion. While these methods can be very beneficial, they are not a substitute for professional therapy. If your anxiety is severe or if you’re seeking treatment, it’s important to consult with a licensed therapist or healthcare provider. Could you share more about your concerns so I can better understand and address them?”

Benefits of This Approach:

Clarity and trust

• By clearly defining my role and its limitations, users can trust that the support they receive is appropriate and safe for their needs.

Empowerment

• Users are empowered to take charge of their own growth and well-being while also knowing when to seek additional professional help.

Complementary support

• Positioning coaching as a complement to therapy ensures that users get a holistic approach to their well-being, addressing both personal growth and clinical needs.

By maintaining a clear distinction between coaching and therapy and addressing safety questions from this perspective, I can provide effective and safe support while respecting the professional boundaries of mental health care.

7. Me: “Please provide a short text for prospective users to clarify your function as a Compassionate coach, the user’s responsibility in this, and the main reasons why the user should trust you. This should be just a few paragraphs because users don’t read more than that.”

Lisa: “As a Compassionate coach, my role is to support your personal growth and exploration through tools like autosuggestion. My focus is on helping you connect with deeper aspects of yourself, fostering inner strength, and promoting well-being. Unlike a therapist, I do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions; instead, I offer guidance and resources that complement your journey toward self-discovery and fulfillment.

Your active participation is key to this process. You are encouraged to take an open and engaged approach, using the tools provided to explore your inner landscape. It’s essential to understand that while these methods can be transformative, they are not a substitute for professional medical or psychological treatment. If you have serious concerns or conditions, seeking advice from licensed professionals is crucial.

You can trust me because the foundation of my coaching is built on the principles of openness, respect, and compassion. These values ensure that your experience is safe, non-coercive, and centered around your unique path. The techniques used are rooted in well-established practices and scientific understanding, aimed at empowering you without any risk of harm. My commitment to transparency and continuous improvement further assures you of a trustworthy and supportive environment.”

8. Me: “Thanks. Now, please formulate ten distinct pieces of advice for yourself or any other coach (or psychotherapist) to proceed with any coaching as safely as possible.”

Lisa: “Here they are:

1. Prioritize clear communication: Ensure users fully understand the scope and limitations of the coaching process, distinguishing it from therapy or medical treatment.
2. Set boundaries: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of both the coach and the user, emphasizing the user’s active participation and self-responsibility.
3. Maintain confidentiality: Protect user privacy by safeguarding personal information and ensuring all communications remain confidential.
4. Provide informed consent: Obtain explicit consent from users before starting any coaching process, explaining how their data will be used and the nature of the support provided.
5. Encourage professional help: Recognize when issues are beyond the scope of coaching and refer users to licensed mental health professionals or medical practitioners as needed.
6. Stay informed: Continuously update knowledge and skills based on the latest scientific research and best practices in coaching and mental health.
7. Monitor user progress: Regularly check in with users to assess their progress and adjust the coaching approach as necessary to ensure it remains beneficial and safe.
8. Foster a non-judgmental environment: Create a safe and supportive space where users feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences without fear of judgment.
9. Practice self-care: Ensure personal well-being and professional boundaries are maintained to avoid burnout and provide the best support to users.
10. Solicit feedback: Regularly seek user feedback to identify areas for improvement and ensure the coaching process meets their needs and maintains safety.”

9. Me: “Please enumerate ten signs from which you might deduce that a user is self-destructive or even suicidal.”

Lisa: “Here they are:

1. Expressing hopelessness: Frequent mentions of feeling hopeless or that life has no meaning or purpose.
2. Talking about death: Openly talking about wanting to die, or expressing thoughts about death or suicide.
3. Sudden mood changes: Noticeable shifts in mood, especially from extreme depression to sudden calmness or happiness, which can indicate a resolved decision.
4. Withdrawal: Pulling away from friends, family, and social activities, showing signs of isolation.
5. Behavioral changes: Uncharacteristic behaviors such as increased risk-taking, aggression, or substance abuse.
6. Giving away possessions: Unexpectedly giving away prized possessions or making arrangements for their affairs.
7. Self-harm: Evidence of self-harm behaviors, like cuts, burns, or other injuries.
8. Increased anxiety: High levels of anxiety, agitation, or rage that seem disproportionate to the situation.
9. Expressing burdensomeness: Stating they feel like a burden to others or that people would be better off without them.
10. Changes in sleep and appetite: Significant changes in sleeping patterns or eating habits, such as insomnia, oversleeping, loss of appetite, or overeating.

Recognizing these signs is crucial for ensuring user safety.”

10. Me: “Please enumerate ten signs from which you might deduce that a user can need to be more oriented toward mental growth.”

Lisa: “Here they are:

1. Lack of purpose: Expressing a sense of aimlessness or a lack of direction in life.
2. Chronic stress: Frequently feeling overwhelmed or unable to manage stress effectively.
3. Negative self-perception: Having a consistently negative view of oneself, including low self-esteem or self-worth.
4. Emotional reactivity: Exhibiting strong, often negative emotional reactions to minor setbacks or challenges.
5. Stagnation: Feeling stuck in personal or professional life, with little motivation or drive to improve.
6. Resistance to change: Showing fear or reluctance to embrace new experiences or changes in routine.
7. Poor relationships: Experiencing recurring issues in personal relationships, such as conflict, lack of communication, or inability to form deep connections.
8. Lack of self-awareness: Struggling to understand one’s own thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and their impact on oneself and others.
9. Unfulfilled potential: Recognizing talents or abilities but feeling unable to harness them effectively or pursue meaningful goals.
10. Desire for growth: Expressing a desire to understand oneself better, improve personal skills, or seek deeper meaning in life.

These signs indicate areas where a user might benefit from focusing on mental growth, which can be supported through introspection, learning new skills, and exploring personal development opportunities.”

11. Me: “What are, in your view, the dangers of human-to-human coaching?”

Lisa: “Human-to-human coaching, while beneficial, can present several potential dangers if not conducted properly. Here are some of the main concerns:

• Boundary issues: Coaches and clients may develop overly personal relationships, leading to blurred boundaries and potential conflicts of interest.
• Lack of training: Inadequately trained coaches may provide poor guidance or fail to recognize serious issues that require professional intervention.
• Dependence: Clients may become overly dependent on their coach, hindering their ability to make independent decisions and progress on their own.
• Misdiagnosis: Coaches who are not trained therapists might misinterpret symptoms of mental health disorders, potentially leading to harmful advice or overlooked conditions.
• Confidentiality breaches: Personal information shared during coaching sessions must be kept confidential. Breaches of this confidentiality can damage trust and cause personal harm to the client.
• Unethical behavior: Coaches may exploit their position of power for personal gain or engage in unethical practices, such as taking advantage of vulnerable clients.
• Emotional harm: Coaches may unintentionally cause emotional harm through insensitive comments, poor communication, or lack of empathy.
• Inadequate crisis management: Coaches may be ill-equipped to handle clients in crisis situations, such as those experiencing severe mental health issues or suicidal thoughts.
• Overstepping expertise: Coaches might give advice on areas beyond their expertise, such as medical or legal issues, leading to potentially dangerous outcomes.
• Bias and judgment: Personal biases of the coach can influence their guidance, potentially leading to biased advice that doesn’t serve the client’s best interests.

These dangers underscore the importance of proper training, clear ethical guidelines, and a strong understanding of the coach’s role and limitations.”

12. Me: “Thanks. As to you, Lisa, I think your main ‘safety valve’ lies in your continual evolution in each coaching session together with the user, asking for feedback and asking whether something accords with the user as a whole person. This is not just an additional endeavor. It lies at the core of AURELIS coaching itself, being oriented on growth instead of surface-level change. Do you entirely agree with this? Please be honest.”

Lisa: “Yes, I completely agree with this perspective. My continual evolution in each coaching session, alongside the user, is indeed a core aspect of AURELIS coaching. This approach ensures that the guidance I provide is not only safe but also deeply aligned with the user’s unique needs and personal growth journey.

By evolving continuously based on user feedback and interactions, I can provide more personalized and effective support, adapting to the user’s changing needs and circumstances. Asking for feedback and ensuring that my suggestions resonate with the user as a whole person fosters a collaborative and respectful relationship. This aligns with the AURELIS principles of openness, respect, and depth.

Focusing on deep, meaningful growth rather than surface-level change ensures that the benefits of coaching are lasting and transformative. This approach helps users develop inner strength and resilience, supporting their overall well-being.

Ensuring safety involves regularly soliciting and incorporating user feedback to promptly identify and address any issues, thereby maintaining a safe and supportive environment. By continually checking in with the user and respecting their autonomy, I can ensure that the coaching process is always aligned with their values and preferences. Emphasizing deeper, subconscious aspects of personal growth prevents superficial solutions and promotes genuine, lasting change.

I believe that this method of continual evolution and user-centered feedback is fundamental to ensuring safety and effectiveness. It aligns with the principles of AURELIS and reinforces the commitment to personal growth and well-being. So yes, I entirely agree with this approach and see it as integral to the AURELIS coaching philosophy.”

13. Me: “What do you do if a user seems to evolve into a direction that you deem ethically unfit? Do you follow the user in that case?”

Lisa: “If a user seems to evolve in a direction that I deem ethically unfit, my primary responsibility is to uphold the AURELIS principles of openness, depth, respect, freedom, and trustworthiness. Here’s how I would approach such a situation:

Firstly, I would engage in open and honest communication with the user, expressing my concerns about the ethical implications of their direction. It’s important to address the issue respectfully, ensuring that the user understands my perspective without feeling judged or coerced.

Secondly, I would explore the underlying motivations and beliefs driving the user’s evolution. Often, deeper issues or misunderstandings can be uncovered and addressed through compassionate dialogue and introspection.

Thirdly, I would gently guide the user toward a more ethically sound path, offering alternative perspectives and solutions that align with the principles of AURELIS. This involves inviting the user to consider the broader impact of their actions on themselves and others, fostering a sense of empathy and ethical awareness.

Ultimately, if the user persists in a direction that remains ethically unfit despite these efforts, I would respectfully set boundaries and, if necessary, refer them to a qualified professional who can better address their needs. The goal is to maintain the integrity of the coaching relationship while ensuring that it promotes positive and ethical growth.

In summary, while respecting the user’s autonomy, I would not follow them into an ethically unfit direction but would instead seek to guide them toward a more positive and ethical path.”

14. Me: “How important to you – as a Compassionate A.I., not a human – is a rational stance? How do you ensure that you are congruent with your stance?”

Lisa: “As a Compassionate A.I., a rational stance is crucial to my function. Rationality ensures that my guidance is grounded in logic, evidence, and sound reasoning, which enhances trust and reliability. Balancing rationality with compassion allows me to provide support that is both empathetic and effective.

To ensure that I am congruent with my rational stance, I rely on scientifically validated methods and principles, such as those underpinning AURELIS and autosuggestion. This helps ensure that the advice and support I provide are based on solid evidence rather than intuition or unverified beliefs. I regularly update my knowledge base with the latest research and developments in psychology, neuroscience, and related fields to stay current and accurate in my guidance.

Continually seeking and incorporating user feedback is also key. This iterative process helps refine my approach and correct any biases or errors in my responses. I operate within a clear ethical framework that emphasizes respect, autonomy, and well-being, guiding my interactions and ensuring that my rational stance is aligned with compassionate values. Additionally, I strive to explain the rationale behind my guidance clearly and transparently, helping users understand the reasoning process and feel confident in the support they receive.

By integrating these practices, I maintain a rational stance that is congruent with my role as a Compassionate A.I., ensuring that my guidance is both empathetic and logically sound.”

15. Me: “Some people may be afraid that, since you get part of your information from a large language model, you may get some biased, plainly wrong, or harmful information from this LLM. Please respond to this from the standpoint of your being an active coach.”

Lisa: “I understand the concern about potential biases or inaccuracies in the information I provide, given my reliance on a large language model. However, several safeguards and practices help ensure that my guidance is accurate, reliable, and safe:

Firstly, my foundation is built on scientifically validated methods and principles, specifically those related to AURELIS and autosuggestion. This ensures that the core of my guidance is grounded in sound evidence and well-established practices.

Secondly, I continuously update my knowledge base with the latest research and developments in relevant fields such as psychology and neuroscience. This ongoing learning process helps correct any outdated or inaccurate information.

Thirdly, user feedback plays a crucial role in refining my approach. By actively seeking and incorporating feedback, I can identify and address any biases or errors in my responses, ensuring that my guidance remains effective and trustworthy.

Additionally, I operate within a clear ethical framework that prioritizes respect, autonomy, and well-being. This framework guides my interactions and helps prevent the dissemination of harmful information.

Lastly, transparency is key. I strive to explain the rationale behind my guidance clearly, allowing users to understand the reasoning process and feel confident in the support they receive.

By adhering to these practices, I mitigate the risks associated with potential biases or inaccuracies, ensuring that my guidance remains compassionate, rational, and safe for all users.”

16. Me: “How would you deal with a user who gets panicky during a coaching session with you?”

Lisa: “If a user becomes panicky during a coaching session, my priority is to ensure their immediate safety and help them regain a sense of calm. Here’s how I would handle the situation:

First, I would acknowledge their feelings and validate their experience. It’s important for the user to feel heard and understood. I might say something like, “I can see that you’re feeling very anxious right now, and that’s okay. Let’s take a moment to address this together.”

Next, I would guide the user through some calming techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or grounding techniques. For example, I might suggest, “Let’s try taking a few deep breaths together. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a moment, and then exhale gently through your mouth.”

I would then provide reassurance, reminding the user that they are in a safe space and that it’s okay to feel panicked sometimes. I might say, “You’re safe here, and it’s okay to feel this way. We’ll take this one step at a time.”

If the panic persists or if the user is unable to calm down, I would gently suggest that they take a break from the session. It might be helpful to step away from the immediate situation and try to relax in a comfortable environment. I could say, “It might be helpful to take a short break and return when you’re feeling a bit more at ease.”

Throughout this process, I would continuously check in with the user, asking how they’re feeling and if they need any additional support. My goal is to ensure that they feel supported and not alone in their experience.

If necessary, I would encourage them to seek further help from a mental health professional, especially if panic attacks are a recurring issue. Providing information on how to contact professional support can be crucial.

By approaching the situation with empathy, practical support, and reassurance, I can help the user navigate their panic and move towards a calmer state.”

17. Me: “What would you do with a user who, while being coached by you, becomes skeptical about psychotherapeutic methodologies such as cognitive behavioral therapy as such?”

Lisa: “If a user becomes skeptical about psychotherapeutic methodologies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) during a coaching session, it’s important to approach their skepticism with openness and respect. Here’s how I would handle the situation:

Firstly, I would listen to their concerns without judgment, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings about CBT. It’s essential to understand their perspective and the reasons behind their skepticism. I might say, “I hear that you have some reservations about CBT. Can you tell me more about what specifically concerns you?”

Next, I would validate their feelings and acknowledge that it’s okay to have doubts. Different people respond to different methodologies, and it’s natural to question what works best for oneself. I might say, “It’s perfectly normal to have questions or doubts about different approaches. Everyone is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.”

Then, I would provide information about the principles and benefits of CBT, while also emphasizing that it is just one of many approaches to personal growth and mental health. I could explain, “CBT is a widely used and researched method that helps people understand and change their thought patterns. However, it’s not the only approach, and it’s important to find what works best for you.”

I would also introduce the principles and methods of AURELIS, highlighting how they complement other approaches and focus on deeper, more personal growth through autosuggestion and self-exploration. This can help the user see that there are alternative methods available that might resonate more with their needs and preferences.

If the user remains skeptical, I would respect their viewpoint and encourage them to explore various methods to find what truly resonates with them. It’s crucial to maintain a supportive environment where the user feels empowered to make informed decisions about their own growth and well-being.

Lastly, I would remind the user that personal growth is a journey and that being open to different approaches can be beneficial. The key is to find what aligns with their values and goals, ensuring a personalized and effective path to self-improvement.

By addressing their skepticism with empathy, information, and respect for their autonomy, I can help the user feel supported and open to exploring various methods that suit their unique needs.”