Reflection 4: Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Empathic Communication

Reflection 4: Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Empathic Communication
Name
University
Course Number and Name
Tutor’s Name
Date
Introduction
While everything was important in the class, Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Empathic Communication are two important topics mastered in the class. Ideally, Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based approach towards behavior change. As defined, "MI is a goal-oriented communication style with special attention to a language of change. MI is designed in a way that strengthens personal motivation for and commitment to a specific goal by eliciting and exploring an individual’s reasons for change within an atmosphere of compassion and acceptance.” MI is one of the guided styles of communication that sits between following and directing. I realize that MI is designed to empower someone to change by detailing meaning, importance, and change capacity. MI is founded on a respectful and curious strategy of being with people who directly facilitate the change process while also protecting the client’s autonomy. MI is however impractical without empathic communication. I realize that empathic communication remains one of the most meaningful strategies in MI.
Motivational Interviewing
MI, I realize is an important and most applicable counseling strategy. It is a strategy used not only by therapists to promote change but also individuals, especially when resistance to change has already been established. MI thus promotes collaboration between therapist and client to realize the importance of change and implement a non-coerced change decision. The client has the autonomy to decide on an action that best suits them. Since the framework of MI expects that the clinician and client engage as two equal partners, unsolicited advice, instructing, confrontations, warning, or directing are discouraged.
MI works because it does no impose change but follows a strategy where time, practice, self-awareness, and discipline, especially from the clinician is cultivated. MI does not impose change on an individual but instead helps people examine their situations conclusively especially when their confidence, ambivalence, and desire are low. Arguably, the major elements of MI are partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation. MI works best because it reiterates the importance of the artful exchange of key information through affirmation, reflection, and open question. It affirms strength and effort from all ...