There are many indications that a client may be ready to make a change. We have been discussing signs and language that tell us a client is leaning in that direction. Another statement we may hear from a client is when they are thinking about what it may look and feel like to make a change. They may share both positive and negative aspects of this possible change.
If a client were to share a positive aspect of a possible change, they might talk about the things they could do with all the money they would save from stopping smoking or using drugs. They may also have a curiosity about how a relationship might be different if they stopped using substances or went into therapy with the other person.
Again, envisioning is more than just a reason to change, but also a curiosity or imagining of what positive outcomes could be a result of a change. There could also be some negative outcomes of making a change and the client may express the possible problems that might emerge. These could be issues needing some attention and discussion, but the key is that the client is bringing curiosity to the session.
Below are a couple of negative outcomes that could be a result of change offered by Miller and Rollnick. Even if the outcome might be negative, it is an opportunity for us as clinicians to discuss the possibility of change and perhaps the client can come up with their own ideas of how to address these concerns:
鈥淗ow would I make a living鈥�
鈥淚 wouldn鈥檛 have any friends if I quit drinking鈥�
鈥淲hat if I try and they turn me down鈥�
If a client is asking these types of questions and bringing these statements to the session, with either positive or negative outcomes, it is a good sign. It means that they are thinking about making a change and what it might look or feel like moving forward. And again, if the outcomes are negative, it gives the client the opportunity to come up with their own solutions.
Envisioning can often be a sign that the client is moving towards change and ready to move from evoking to planning. Try to listen out for when the client is imagining what a change may be like, and don鈥檛 rule out any potential negative outcomes, because the client is still talking about making a change. As we continue in this blog series, we will look at more signs of readiness the client may display. I hope everyone is doing as well as possible and you have opportunities to use and practice motivational interviewing.
For more information about Motivational Interviewing or related services, contact Eunice Akinyi Okumu, by phone (919) 843-2532, or by email, eunice_okumu@med.unc.edu
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