In this blog series, we have been discussing the movement from evoking to planning. We have looked at numerous approaches to facilitate the client exploring possible change. Hopefully, there are some good discussions about where the client is at in the moment, and where they would like to be in the future.
As this process is unfolding there comes a time when the clinician needs to decide if the client may be ready to move forward by testing the waters. When you sense the client is perhaps ready to get more specific about a change plan, it is time to find out where they are in this process. There are lots of ways to get a better understanding of how ready they feel, but the easiest way, is probably by asking them directly.
Below are a couple of ways to consider framing the question offered by Miller and Rollnick. See what you think or maybe there are other ways you could ask the client if they are ready to move from evoking to planning:
鈥淲ould it make sense to consider how you might go about 颅颅颅颅颅颅____________________?鈥�
鈥淎re you willing to think about how you might______________________ or is that getting ahead of things?鈥�
Again, these are just two ways the question could be asked to the client about whether they may be ready to think more about a concrete behavior plan moving forward. We may have a sensing from our experiences working with other clients, but it is usually best to make sure by asking the client. Whatever response you receive will provide helpful information about how to proceed.
If the client is ready to move from evoking to planning, you can begin the discussion about ways for this behavior change to become a reality. If the client expresses hesitation or concern about moving forward at this time, it can be a great opportunity to continue exploring those concerns until the client feels ready to move on.
When you have a sense the client may be ready to move into the planning phase of behavior change, it is best to ask them directly. The client will let you know if they are ready or if they need a little more time exploring any ambivalence or concerns. The information you receive will guide you moving forward. 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.
Motivational Interviewing Beyond 黑料网