It can be very difficult to sit with a client who is just not ready to actually change anything about their behavior, even though it puts them at great risk. This is very hard to do when you really care about your clients and their well being.
Still, I know it’s not my job to try to MAKE another change. Actually, I can’t! People are often very frightened to let go of certain behaviors and habits, and the perceived control they bring. We must respect that, as it expresses our respect for the client and their autonomy. I find that I think about my patients a lot, and hope for their willingness to make changes that I know would benefit them.
Listening for clues that the client is ready to discuss actual change is an important skill in MI. It takes practice and patience on the part of the clinician in learning these skills. We are learning to listen between the lines and be alert for genuine readiness to change.
