2025/07/01 12:00 AM
In this final step of the TREATS framework, I focus on Sincere Respect—the kind of respect that doesn’t just tolerate differences but honors the relationship, even when agreement isn’t reached. It’s about ending the conversation with gratitude, humility, and care, as taught in Philippians 2:3. We explore how a simple thank you, a kind follow-up, or a heartfelt acknowledgment of the other person’s effort can shift a conversation from transactional to transformational. My hope is that by practicing sincere respect, we create emotional safety, reflect Christlike love, and walk away with stronger connections—even when it’s hard. Read More… 2025/06/08 12:00 AM
In this section of the TREATS framework, I explore the second “T” – Tell Your Truth – a vital step that comes after someone feels fully heard and understood. It’s not about defending yourself or correcting them; it’s about sharing your own experience with humility, clarity, and care. Using “I” statements and asking for permission first helps keep the conversation safe and open. This step is deeply rooted in the principles of Nonviolent Communication and scriptural teachings like Colossians 4:6, which remind us to speak with grace. When done right, telling your truth builds mutual understanding, fosters connection, and strengthens relationships. My hope is that this encourages honest, Christlike dialogue where both people feel valued. Read More… 2025/06/01 12:00 AM
In this part of the TREATS framework, I focus on the importance of asking and confirming what we’ve heard after rephrasing and empathizing. This step is all about slowing down, checking our understanding, and showing the other person they truly matter. By asking simple questions like, “Did I get that right?” or “Is there more?” we move out of assumption and into connection. Through examples, scripture, and practical tips, I explore how asking for confirmation builds trust, deepens understanding, and honors the Savior’s call to seek, knock, and listen with love (Matthew 7:7). My hope is that this step empowers us to create safe, honest conversations where people feel seen, not judged. Read More… 2025/05/16 12:00 AM
In this post, I explore the “E” in TREATS-Empathize-and how truly stepping into someone else’s emotional shoes can transform difficult conversations. By drawing on scriptural examples of compassion and sharing practical ways to validate feelings, I highlight how empathy disarms conflict and fosters connection. My hope is that by practicing this skill, we can mirror the Savior’s love, creating conversations where others feel seen, heard, and valued-even in disagreement.
Read More… 2025/05/01 12:00 AM
In this post, I focus on the “R” in TREATS-Rephrase-highlighting the importance of restating what someone says in your own words before moving forward in a tough conversation. By practicing this simple but powerful step, supported by scriptural wisdom, we show respect, build trust, and lay the groundwork for real understanding. My hope is that by using rephrasing, we can keep our conversations clear, compassionate, and Christlike.
Read More… 2025/04/16 12:00 AM
In this post, I explore the first T in TREATS-Truth-by focusing on how, even in emotionally charged conversations, we can choose to seek out the real or underlying truth in what others are saying, rather than getting caught up in exaggerations or becoming defensive. Drawing on the teachings of Jesus (“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free,” John 8:32) and Viktor Frankl’s insight about our freedom to choose our response, I share practical examples and scriptural guidance for recognizing truth, asking clarifying questions, and keeping our conversations grounded in honesty and respect. My hope is that by pausing, listening, and acknowledging even small truths, we can foster more understanding, avoid common pitfalls, and create more meaningful and Christlike communication in our relationships. Read More… 2025/04/01 12:00 AM
In this post, I share my journey from using Dr. David Burns’ EAR model-which I respect for its focus on empathy, assertiveness, and respect-to developing my own TREATS method for communication. While I appreciate the strengths of EAR, I found its Empathy step challenging because it combines several important skills (like Disarming Technique, Thought Empathy, Feeling Empathy, and Inquiry) into one, making it harder for me to remember and apply naturally. Wanting something more intuitive and heartfelt, I worked with Anne Taylor to create TREATS, which breaks these skills into simple, memorable steps: Truth, Rephrase, Empathize, Ask, Tell, and Sincere. This method emphasizes making sure the other person feels 100% heard before sharing my own perspective, echoing Stephen Covey’s Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood. I hope readers find encouragement in knowing that real connection takes daily effort, humility, and gratitude, and that both EAR and TREATS can help us listen, understand, and communicate with greater sincerity and respect. Read More…