Thoughtful Replies for Tough Conversations with Immigrant Families

Navigate family dynamics with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
This script kit is designed for first-generation immigrants who feel torn between honoring cultural traditions and asserting personal boundaries—especially during family gatherings and holidays.

Inside, you’ll find ready-to-use, emotionally intelligent responses for:

• Declining food or physical affection
• Explaining holiday plans
• Responding to invasive questions
• Handling family tension and political debates
• Setting expectations when hosting gatherings

Written by Shahla Nikpour, LCSW + Creative Arts Therapist and founder of Phoenix Thriving Therapy, these replies are rooted in trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and lived experience.

🧠 Each phrase balances respect for your elders with the self-worth you’ve fought to reclaim.

🎁 Use it to prepare before visits or keep it on your phone for on-the-spot support.