Motivational Interviewing Impact
Post a reflection on the clinician’s integration of motivational interviewing processes and core skills into his conversation with the client.
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- Watch the Using Motivational Interviewing Approaches video (RNAO Communications, 2015). Pay close attention to the clinician’s use of motivational interviewing processes and core skills as he talks with Nathan about his substance use and misuse.
- Describe two examples from the video where you saw evidence of a motivational interviewing process (engaging, focusing, evoking or planning) and explain how they impacted the conversation with the client.
- Describe two examples from the video where you saw evidence of a motivational interviewing core skill (open questions, affirmation, reflecting, or summarizing) and explain how they impacted the conversation with the client.
- Explain how the clinician’s use of motivational interviewing might impact the next steps in the treatment process.
- RNAO Communications. (2015). Using motivational interviewing approachesLinks to an external site. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQzrx7JmUkM
Motivational Interviewing Processes
The clinician in the video effectively demonstrated motivational interviewing (MI) processes that built rapport and encouraged self-reflection. One clear example of the engaging process occurred when the clinician asked Nathan about his daily routine, listening attentively to establish trust. This approach helped Nathan feel heard and comfortable sharing his experiences without fear of judgment. Another strong example was evoking, shown when the clinician asked Nathan how his substance use affects his goals. This question prompted Nathan to articulate personal reasons for change, highlighting ambivalence and opening space for discussing motivation. These processes shifted the conversation from directive advice-giving to collaborative exploration, allowing Nathan to consider his situation critically and recognize his own reasons for reducing substance use.
Motivational Interviewing Core Skills
The clinician also employed MI core skills effectively. First, he used open-ended questions by asking, “Can you tell me more about what you enjoy about using substances?” This encouraged Nathan to elaborate, revealing underlying motivations and emotions rather than providing short, closed responses. Second, the clinician used reflecting when he paraphrased Nathan’s feelings about wanting change but feeling stuck. This reflection validated Nathan’s emotions and demonstrated empathy, strengthening the therapeutic alliance. These skills helped Nathan feel respected and supported, fostering a safe environment where he could openly consider his options.
