A 52-year-old man with generalized anxiety disorder has been in psychotherapy with a PMHNP for five months. During a session focused on his tendency to avoid difficult conversations with his wife, the patient suddenly becomes angry and says, 'You know what? You always push me to do things I'm not ready for. You're just like everyone else who doesn't listen to me. Maybe I should find a therapist who actually understands me.' The patient crosses his arms and makes direct, intense eye contact. The PMHNP notices feeling defensive and an urge to justify the therapeutic approach. Which of the following represents the most therapeutically effective response to this confrontation rupture?