When we want to stop a negative behavior, such as reducing use of alcohol or tobacco, increasing exercise, or eating healthily, our motivation to change plays a key role in our success. Motivational interviewing is one technique therapists use to help clients understand their ambivalence to change, reasons for changing their behavior, and what’s in between where they are and where they want to be, including how their current behavior doesn’t align with their values and how they’ll feel meeting their goal.
Through motivational interviewing, therapists can help clients understand their interest in changing, increase commitment to change, and build up confidence in taking small steps. Through showing empathy and embracing resistance, therapists can encourage clients to stay gentle with themselves throughout the change process.
Deb Falzoi
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