Core Principles
This MI principle involves working together as partners rather than acting as the expert.
What is collaboration?
This first process involves building a trusting relationship.
What is engaging?
This skill involves asking questions that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no.
What are open-ended questions?
This type of talk signals a client’s movement toward change.
What is change talk?
A client says, “I know I should quit smoking, but it helps me relax.” You respond, “It sounds like smoking helps you cope with stress, even though part of you is thinking about quitting
What is a complex reflection?
This principle emphasizes respecting the client’s right and capacity for self-direction.
What is autonomy?
This process involves narrowing the conversation to habits or patterns to change.
What is focusing?
This MI skill involves recognizing and reinforcing a client’s strengths.
What are affirmations?
This acronym (DARN) includes desire, ability, reasons. What does the "N" in DARN stand for?
What is need?
A client says, “I don’t think my drinking is that big of a problem.” You reply, “What are some things you enjoy about drinking, and what are some not-so-good things?
What is an open-ended question exploring ambivalence?
This MI principle involves drawing out the client’s own motivations for change.
What is evocation?
This process involves eliciting the client’s own motivations for change.
What is evoking?
This skill involves restating or paraphrasing what the client has said.
What are reflections?
This type of talk argues against change.
What is sustain talk?
A client says, “I’ve tried to lose weight before and failed.” You respond, “You’ve made efforts in the past, which shows a lot of persistence
What is an affirmation?
This principle focuses on prioritizing the client’s welfare and needs.
What is compassion?
This process involves developing a commitment and plan for change.
What is planning?
This skill involves pulling together key points from a conversation
What are summaries?
Statements expressing commitment, activation, or taking steps fall under this stronger form of change talk.
What is mobilizing change talk?
A client says, “I guess I could try cutting back this week.” You reply, “So you’re thinking about making a small change and seeing how it goes.
What is a reflection of change talk?