Emotion: anxiety
Problem: job crisis
Situation: A new supervisor is more controlling, doesn't trust me and is changing my work role and threatening my job. He's reducing my travel and opportunity to take additional hours and changing the direction of my current work projects. He's also from the Military and has an abrasive way of communicating with makes having conversations with him very difficult.

assistant: How can I help you today?

user: Hi there. I'm seeking some support, maybe some advice in dealing with a situation at my work. I've got a new supervisor who is so different from my last one.

assistant: Sure, I see you need some support at work because your new supervisor is so different than your previous one What kinds of things are troubling to you?

user: Yes. They have a Military background and bark orders, and change the way I'm working without being open to conversation. When I ask questions, they threaten my job. Telling me they "Don't have to explain themselves!" as they are my supervisor.

assistant: Wow, that sounds difficult with them being so militant. Have you been able to talk to any co-workers in a similar situation?

user: Yes, there are two other people supervised by him. One of them is also Military and new him before hand, they seem to get along great. But my other co-worker is like me. Doesn't know what to do, or who to turn to. Sometimes the work environment is pretty hostile when we're just trying to continue projects that were started before he arrived.

assistant: That sounds hard that it is so hostile at work when you trying so hard.

user: Yea. But when he threatens and calls my insubordinate, I worry he might be making a case to remove me. I wonder if I should talk to the person above him, about it. But I worry they might just think I'm complaining because its different But it really is uncomfortable.

assistant: It sounds like you worry about having your job taken away from you. Talking to someone above your supervisor may be a good solution.

user: Its been 3 months since he started, I just wonder if its too soon. I'd hate to be seen as a complainer. And the person above him, is the person who hired him.

assistant: When I was in a similar situation I had to go to a higher supervisor and was helped a lot. It probably is never too soon, but could be too late if you wait.

user: Thats true. I'm not happy at work, but I do love my job. I enjoyed it a lot before him arrived. But now I'm constantly thinking about finding a new job, or worrying about him pushing me out. Maybe thats what he wants, so he can bring in his own people?

assistant: I see you really like your job. Sometimes just taking a deep breath can help to calm stress.

user: Thats good advice. I do need to do more outside of work to relieve the stress. I'll try to do that. Do you think I can speak to him about his tone and maybe explain that communication is much more relaxed?

assistant: Do you think he'll be receptive to your communications if you speak directly to him?

user: I think its worth a try, but I don't want him to think I'm being argumentative. Any suggestions on how to have that conversation?

assistant: I can see that you worry about your boss seeing you as argumentative, but could you try it from the perspective of making your boss feel like he is in control?

user: Making it his idea. That's a good tactic. I could try that. And maybe giving him time to understand the workplace as it new to him too.

assistant: Is there anything else I can help you with today?

user: I think you've given me some good advice. Thank you. I feel a little less anxious than I did.

assistant: You are welcome.

user: I appreciate it!

assistant: I wish you well.

user: You too. Good bye!