A rehearsal technique for interpersonal situations. Therapist and client enact a difficult conversation, pause, adjust wording and try again. It turns vague advice into practiced behavior and is useful for anxiety, assertiveness and conflict.
Step-by-step guide
- Choose a specific upcoming or recent situation.
- Define the client's goal in the conversation.
- Assign roles and run a short first round.
- Pause and identify what worked and what did not.
- Try alternative wording or posture.
- Repeat several rounds.
- Plan a real-life practice step.
When to use
- Social anxiety
- Assertiveness training
- Communication skills
- Relationship conflict
- Preparation for difficult conversations
Key phrases
Let's try it here first. I will play the other person, and you say what you want to say. We can pause and adjust.
Follow-up questions
What did you notice in your body?
Which sentence felt more natural?
What would make this easier to try outside the room?
Alternative phrasings
Let's switch roles so you can hear how it sounds.
Try saying it once more, slower and clearer.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not mock or exaggerate the other person.
- ⚠️ Keep the exercise emotionally safe.
- ⚠️ Some clients feel embarrassed; normalize rehearsal.
- ⚠️ Move from rehearsal to real practice when possible.
Source: Behavior therapy skills training; Lazarus, 1971
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.