This style includes an empathetic approach to the other person, where we try to understand things from the client’s perspective. Accurate empathy refers to the idea that you really get the other person, and you communicate that clearly. I think that all of us want to be seen and heard for exactly who we are and understood in that way. This accurate empathy goes a very long way in creating the trusting relationship that fosters health behavior change. An accepting and non-judgmental attitude towards the client, and communicating that clearly is another aspect of accurate empathy.
Another aspect of the style and spirit of MI is that we are respectful of the client. One way to communicate that is asking permission before raising a topic, addressing concerns, offering advice or providing education. Often when I ask participants in my workshop how they typically try to get people to do what they should, they say, “I educate them about the risks of current behavior and the benefits of change”. That’s great, but if you do that without permission, you have not included the client in the process.
The MI style emphasizes eliciting, or encouraging the client to do most of the talking. The clinician’ job is to guide the client to their own solutions to the problem, not tell them what to do. We honor the other person’s autonomy, respecting the client’s freedom of choice, personal control, perspective and ability to make decision. In summary the MI style is collaborative, respectful and empathic. The goal is to create a trusting connection with your client so they can decide if, when and how they will change.
Dr. Ellen is available for individual or group coaching in MI. Contact her at ellen@TrainingWithDrEllen.com for details and pricing.
