Overview
Difficult conversations don’t have to derail your relationship. This collection of proven communication scripts provides word-for-word examples of how to approach sensitive topics, express needs clearly, and respond constructively—all adapted for different neurodivergent communication styles.
Rather than hoping you’ll find the right words in the heat of the moment, these scripts give you a framework to practice and customize, reducing anxiety and increasing your chances of productive dialogue.
What You’ll Get
- 10 Conversation Scripts: Ready-to-use frameworks for common relationship challenges, organized into 3 key areas
- Opening Difficult Conversations: 3 scripts for initiating important talks
- Expressing Needs & Boundaries: 4 scripts for articulating what you need
- Conflict Resolution: 3 scripts for de-escalating and repairing
- Multiple Approaches: Different scripts for different communication preferences and neurotypes
- Customization Guide: How to adapt scripts for your specific relationship dynamic and practice methods
Who This Helps
Ideal For:
- Couples who avoid difficult conversations until they become crises
- Partners who freeze up or say the wrong thing during conflict
- Those who need time to process before responding in conversations
- Relationships where misunderstandings escalate quickly
Conditions:
- Essential for autistic partners who benefit from scripted language (covered in 8 scripts)
- Helpful for ADHD couples who struggle with emotional regulation during conflict (covered in 8 scripts)
- Valuable for anxious partners who worry about saying the wrong thing (covered in 8 scripts)
- Supportive for PTSD partners working through vulnerability (covered in 3 scripts)
- Useful for those managing depression seeking communication tools (covered in 1 script)
How to Use This Tool
Step 1: Choose Your Scenario (2 minutes)
- Identify the type of conversation you need to have
- Select the most relevant script from the collection
- Note any specific adaptations suggested for your neurotype combination
Step 2: Practice Privately (5 minutes)
- Read through the script several times
- Adapt the language to sound natural for you
- Practice your opening lines until they feel comfortable
Step 3: Set the Stage (3 minutes)
- Choose the right time and place for the conversation
- Use the script’s suggested opening to begin
- Reference the script openly if needed—your partner can benefit from the structure too
Step 4: Stay on Track (10-15 minutes)
- Use the script’s framework to keep the conversation productive
- Refer to de-escalation phrases if emotions run high
- Remember that it’s okay to pause and return to the script if you get lost
How to Practice
Before using these scripts in real conversations, build confidence through practice:
- Practice with a Mirror: Rehearse your opening lines while observing your body language
- Role-Play with a Friend: Have a trusted friend play your partner so you can practice responses
- Use an AI Chatbot: Practice low-stakes conversations with ChatGPT or similar tools
- Start with Easy Topics: Build familiarity with the scripts on non-emotional subjects first
Tips for Success
- Practice Makes Perfect: Run through scripts beforehand, even with easy topics
- Transparency Helps: Let your partner know you’re using a script—they may appreciate the structure
- Customize Freely: Adapt the language to match your natural speaking style
- It’s Okay to Reference: You can refer to the script during the conversation—it’s a tool, not a crutch
When to Use
Before Conflicts Escalate:
- When you notice recurring issues building up
- Before discussing changes or new boundaries
- When addressing unmet needs or disappointments
During Relationship Maintenance:
- For regular relationship check-ins
- When discussing future goals or concerns
- Before making major decisions together
Crisis Support:
- When previous conversations haven’t resolved issues
- After a fight to repair and prevent recurrence
- When emotions are too high for spontaneous communication
Sample Scripts Included
Opening Difficult Conversations (3 scripts)
“I Need to Talk About Something Important” “I’ve been thinking about something that’s important to our relationship. Is now a good time, or would you prefer to schedule a time when we can both focus?”
“Can We Schedule a Time to Talk?” For partners who need processing time and want to avoid surprise conversations.
“I Have Something to Share” A gentle approach for expressing vulnerability without blame.
Expressing Needs & Boundaries (4 scripts)
“When You [Behavior], I Feel [Emotion]” Example: “When you scrolled on your phone while I was talking, I felt unimportant. Could we find a way to handle this differently?”
“I Need Support With [Challenge]” Ask for specific help without asking your partner to fix the problem.
“I Need to Set a Boundary” Frame boundaries as self-care needs, not criticisms of your partner.
“This Isn’t Working for Me” Renegotiate agreements that aren’t working for your neurotype.
Conflict Resolution (3 scripts)
“Let’s Problem-Solve Together” “We keep running into the same issue. Could we put our heads together and brainstorm solutions?”
“I Need to Repair After a Fight” Reconnect and apologize effectively after conflict.
“I Need a Break to Regulate” Take timeouts during conflict to prevent escalation and regulate emotions.
Related Tools
Get More Support
Nemlys provides conversation coaching and personalized scripts based on your specific relationship challenges and communication styles, helping you build confidence in difficult conversations.
Ready to download? Click the download button above to get your Communication Scripts and start having more productive conversations today.