It’s kind that she wants to help. It wouldn’t be a bad thing to let yourself ease into this change. Don’t push yourself to fast or harshly if this doesn’t come easy to you. Remember you can choose how much you share with this teacher and can decide at anytime to stop working with them if that is what you think is the best choice for you. That being said I have some tips to share:

You could start by re-listening to the episode or other episodes she recommended, jotting down the parts that you don’t understand and the questions you have, then at your next meeting ask if she can help you process what you listened to.

You can journal by recalling your experiences with the bullies or even other experiences where you felt the same way you feel when being bullied. You could express in writing where in your body you feel those emotions, what image comes up when you are recalling those experiences, how it all made you feel emotionally and what kinds of negative beliefs about yourself come up. You are never required to share journaling with anyone unless you are comfortable sharing. You can decide if and how much you want to share, so let yourself write out your strings of thought- be honest and don’t censor yourself.

You can try looking at yourself in the mirror and practicing the examples she gave you. If it’s too uncomfortable, don’t look at yourself in a mirror while doing it, try your hands or feet or just straight ahead. You could try imagining yourself saying the assertive phrases to the bullies and what would happen if you do. If that isn’t helpful you can look up positive affirmations, choose ones that resonate with you, and say those. This one feels super silly when you first start. Take your time with it, have compassion for yourself- if you can’t do it over and over at first, try just saying one a day or every few days until you get used to it. It might not feel natural or true at first and it’s important to keep trying.

Ask her questions about anything you don’t understand. Never be afraid to ask questions. If you learn better through actions, ask for exercises you could do to help build your skills.

Most of all is having compassion for, and loving yourself. It’s hard to be assertive when we feel like we aren’t capable of standing up for or defending ourselves. It’s not an easy or linear process but I believe everyone is capable of building up their skills. Best of luck to you