Utilizing Motivational Interviewing with Mary
Principles of Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing is a client-centered, collaborative approach that aims to elicit behavior change by resolving ambivalence. In the case of Mary, who has a history of alcohol dependence and whose daughter displays signs of fetal alcohol syndrome, applying motivational interviewing principles can help her explore and resolve her ambivalence towards changing her alcohol use behavior.
Overview of the Interview Progression:
1. Engagement: The provider establishes rapport with Mary, showing empathy and understanding towards her situation. The focus is on building a trusting relationship to facilitate open communication.
2. Assessment: The provider explores Mary’s thoughts and feelings regarding her alcohol use, her concerns about her daughter’s well-being, and her readiness for change. Open-ended questions are used to encourage Mary to express herself.
3. Eliciting Change Talk: The provider encourages Mary to articulate reasons for considering change, such as concerns for her daughter’s health or personal goals she wants to achieve. Reflective listening is used to amplify Mary’s own motivations for change.
4. Rolling with Resistance: If Mary expresses resistance or ambivalence towards changing her behavior, the provider acknowledges her feelings without judgment and explores the underlying reasons for her reluctance. This helps Mary feel understood and validated.
5. Developing a Change Plan: Collaboratively, the provider and Mary identify small, achievable steps towards reducing or quitting alcohol use. Setting specific, measurable goals helps Mary build confidence in her ability to change.
6. Enhancing Self-Efficacy: The provider reinforces Mary’s strengths and past successes, highlighting her ability to overcome challenges. Positive affirmations and encouragement boost Mary’s self-belief in her capacity to make positive changes.
7. Closing and Follow-Up: The provider summarizes the discussion, reaffirms support for Mary’s efforts, and discusses a plan for follow-up sessions or additional support resources. This ensures continuity in the change process and maintains motivation for progress.
Recognizing Patient Readiness for Change:
A provider can recognize that Mary is ready to change based on several indicators observed during the motivational interviewing process:
– Change Talk: Mary expresses genuine desire and willingness to make changes in her alcohol use behavior.
– Commitment Language: Mary uses language that indicates commitment to taking action, such as “I want to do this for my daughter” or “I am ready to make a change.”
– Exploration of Solutions: Mary actively engages in discussing potential strategies or solutions for managing her alcohol dependence.
– Increased Confidence: Mary demonstrates growing confidence in her ability to control her alcohol use and address the underlying issues contributing to her dependency.
By leveraging the principles of motivational interviewing, the provider can effectively support Mary in exploring her motivations for change, resolving ambivalence, and ultimately empowering her to take steps towards overcoming her alcohol dependence for the well-being of herself and her daughter.
