Motivational Interviewing is a modality that is particularly effective with clients who are ambivalent to change. Watch as therapist Sebastian Kaplan uses MI techniques to develop rapport with 13-year old Marley, whose ambivalence borders on hostility. Kaplan masterfully and persistently attempts to engage with Marley, and avoids the temptation of the “righting reflex”—which is MI-speak for telling a client what to do.
Develop tools for effectively collaborating with teen clients by supporting their autonomy and identifying any willingness or reasoning they might have for changing potentially self-destructive behaviors. The session itself provides ample opportunities for noticing your own reactions and reflecting on the pitfalls often presented by these clients.
