Omg, what a tramatic experience that had to been for you. I'm so sorry you had to experience that. For me when I pressed my hair during my 1st big chop. The hair dresser washed it, blew it out on low heat with some leave-in conditioner in my hair . Added a protectant pressing greese. And sectioned off small pieces and did a press. It was a pain free experience. I advice Dominican Salons for straightening.
You have shifted your thinking. That's why this time, I think you will have a much more satisfying experience. Congratulations! That's the hardest part about making any change - shifting your thinking. You have done it!