Build on strengths and capacities

• Highlight strengths and achievements
  • “You’ve done a great job with your exercises so far.
  • “I can see that your balance has improved. That shows your effort is paying off.”
• Encourage use of existing skills and resources
  • “Let’s build on the techniques that worked for you previously.”
  • “Your awareness of your body is a strong foundation for progress.”
• Frame challenges as opportunities for growth
  • “This movement might feel difficult, but it’s a chance to strengthen what’s already working.”
  • “Even small improvements show how capable your body is.”
  • “You’ve overcome challenges before. We can apply that experience here.”
• Invite active participation and problem-solving
  • “How would you like to approach this exercise using your strengths?”
  • “What strategies do you think would help you succeed today?”
  • “Let’s use your experience and skills to guide our next steps.”
• Use affirming and supportive language
  • “You have the ability to make progress. I’m here to support you.”
  • “Your effort and persistence are really important parts of your recovery.”
  • “I trust your judgment about what works best for your body.”
• Reinforce empowerment and confidence
  • “You are capable of managing this safely and effectively.”
  • “Your strengths will guide how we move forward together.”
  • “We’ll focus on what you can do, building from what’s already strong.

Ensure interactions are validating and affirming

• Acknowledge feelings and experiences
  • “It makes sense that this feels challenging. Your response is understandable.”
  • “Your experiences are valid, and it’s important we work at your pace.”
• Affirm effort and progress
  • “You approached that movement carefully and safely. Great job.”
• Use encouraging and supportive language
  • “I appreciate you telling me what’s working and what isn’t.”
  • “You’re doing your best, and that matters more than perfection.”
  • “Your feedback helps us make the session meaningful and effective for you.”
• Validate identity and choices
  • “Your preferences and choices are respected here.”
  • “It’s okay to take a break or adjust the plan. Your comfort is important.”
• Demonstrate respect through tone and behaviour: NON-VERBALLY AS WELL
  • Maintain calm, patient, and warm voice and body language.
  • Make eye contact and nod to show attention and understanding.
  • Pause to listen fully before responding, showing you value their input.
• Reinforce safety, respect, and empowerment
  • “You are being heard and understood.”
  • “Your experiences and choices are central to our work together.”
  • “This is a safe space where your feelings, efforts, and decisions are affirmed.”

Use person-first and inclusive language

• Emphasize the person, not the condition
  • “A person with chronic pain” instead of “a chronic pain patient.”
  • “A person living with disability” instead of “a disabled person.”
  • “Someone experiencing anxiety” instead of “an anxious person.”
• Use inclusive language for gender and identity
  • “Is there a preferred name you would like me to use?”
  • Avoid assumptions about gender, family structure, or relationships.
• Be mindful of cultural and linguistic inclusivity
  • Use neutral, respectful terms for cultural, racial, and religious identities.
  • Offer materials in the patient’s preferred language or format.
  • Ask for preferences regarding cultural or religious considerations in care.
• Avoid stigmatizing or judgmental language
  • Use “living with” instead of “suffers from” or “victim of.”
  • Avoid words that imply blame or incompetence.
  • Focus on strengths and abilities rather than limitations.
• Invite patient guidance on language
  • “Is there a term or way you prefer I describe your experience?
• Reinforce respect and empowerment
  • “You are the expert on your own experiences.”