“Welcome, I’m glad you’re here. Please take your time to settle in.”
“Before we begin, would you like to know what today’s session will look like?”
“You’re in control of what you choose to share today.”
Physical space
“If you’d prefer the door open or closed during our session, just let me know.”
Tone and body language
Use calm, respectful tone and open body posture
Avoid standing over the patient; maintain appropriate eye level
Allow pauses and avoid rushing speech
Transparency about procedures
“Before I touch your shoulder, I’ll explain what I’m looking for and ask if that’s okay.”
“At any point, you can ask me to stop or take a break.”
“Some parts of the assessment involve close contact; would you like me to describe each step first?”
Acknowledging the patient’s autonomy
“You know your body best, so I’ll ask for your feedback as we go”
“It’s completely okay to say no or to stop at any point.”
Embrace diversity and inclusion
Inclusive introduction and language
“How would you like me to address you?”
“Please let me know your preferred pronouns if you’d like.”
“Everyone’s experience with pain and movement is different: there’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to feel.”
“You don’t need to share anything personal that you’re not comfortable talking about.”
Acknowledging diversity and lived experience
“We all come from different backgrounds: if any aspect of the session feels unfamiliar or uncomfortable, let’s adjust it together.”
“Some people’s past experiences with health care have been difficult. If there’s anything I can do differently to help you feel safer, please tell me.”
“Your experiences and culture are important here — they help us find the best way to work together.”
Physical and cultural inclusion in the environment
-“Would you like a support person or interpreter present next time around?”
Affirming belonging
“You’re welcome here, just as you are.”
“Your perspective matters, you’re part of the team in your care.”
“I appreciate you sharing that with me; it helps me understand what works best for you.
Give consequences using supportive, non-confrontational language
Use calm, neutral language
“Let’s look at what might happen if we try this approach versus another option.”
“If we skip this exercise today, it might take a little longer to reach your goal, would you like to adjust or continue?”
“If you feel uncomfortable with that movement, we can modify it or try something different.”
Explain the reasoning behind recommendations
“The reason I suggest this is to help reduce strain and support your recovery.”
“Doing this exercise regularly can help your body adapt gradually, but it’s okay if we need to slow down.”
“Taking a short rest might mean we do fewer exercises today, but it helps keep your body safe.”
Set boundaries respectfully
“I want to make sure both of us feel comfortable during this session, so I’ll always ask before continuing.”
“I understand this might feel challenging, let’s find a way to move forward that still feels safe for you.”
“If we can’t continue safely today, we can pause and review what might help next time.”
Emphasize shared decision making
“We can decide together what feels manageable today.”
“Would you like to hear what your options are before we choose the next step?”
“You’re in charge of your body, I’m here to guide you and make sure we stay within safe limits.”
Maintain supportive tone and body language
Keep voice steady and calm.
Use open, non-threatening posture.
Validate the patient’s feelings: “It’s understandable that this feels difficult. Let’s work through it together.”