Confidence and Hope

Throughout our recent blogs, we have been taking a look at the importance of confidence and the role it plays in behavior change.  We reviewed many strategies to strengthen confidence and discussed how best to respond to confidence talk when it is being expressed by the client. Another key element for behavior change to occur is having hope or the belief that change is not only possible but is also achievable.

As we know, both personally and in working with our clients, we are all extremely resourceful. And it can be challenging at times to remember this, especially when we are facing a difficult situation. Perhaps we can recall what has been supportive for us, as clinicians, when we have been in this position. When we work with clients, I believe it is always helpful to reflect on our beliefs about each client we have the privilege to work with and learn from.

The mind-set we bring into the therapeutic relationship can have a major impact on the outcomes. For example, in working with our clients, do we believe:

• the client is the expert of their own experience
• the client knows themselves better than anyone else
• the client has the resources, both internal and external, to create change in their life
• the client can make the decisions needed for a meaningful life
• the clinician can be the learner and the client can teach the clinician about their experiences                                                      
• the clinician can stay curious and be non-judgmental
• the clinician can join along-side the client and collaborate with them about their future
• the clinician can trust the client on when and if they want to change

By asking ourselves these questions, we can begin to strengthen our own beliefs about our clients and truly allow them to own their experiences and support them in a way that truly empowers them. This may take a little practice and perhaps writing these questions down and asking ourselves these questions before we meet with each client can offer a great way to set the tone for the session. A session that offers hope and trust that the client will be able to move forward in a way that is meaningful to them.

Next month, we will start a new blog series on Counseling with Neutrality, since there may be times when we need to stay neutral and keep from nudging the client in one direction or the other. I hope everyone is doing as well as possible and you have opportunities to use and practice motivational interviewing. Take good care!