continuum. Sources of dissonance may include different agendas or aspirations or resistance to change. Change talk refers to the movement of an individual toward change and resistance is the force that moves the client away from change (p. 46). The counselor helps the client become ready for change. Six types of counselor responses are described: arguing for change, assuming the expert role, criticizing, shaming, or blaming, labeling, being in a hurry, and claiming preeminence (p. 50).
Miller and Rollnick (2002) stated that Phase 1 of MI includes the building of motivation for change. During this phase the counselor helps the client understand the importance of change and their level of confidence related to this undertaking. Five early methods that can be used for every session include the following: ask open questions; listen reflectively; affirm; summarize; and elicit change talk (pp. 65-77). Rogers' client centered therapy is a nondirective approach that simply provides a conducive (empathetic and caring with unconditional regard) atmosphere that allows the client's intrinsic nature toward change to unfold. Alternatively, MI is described as a directive but client-centered approach. While this technique is always directive toward resolving ambivalence to facilitate change, beyond this the level of directive influence fluctuates depending on goals. The goal of MI is to enhance intrinsic motivation toward change. MI is nondirective in that it is not directed toward a particular change outcome. The counselor responds to resistance using reflective and other types of responses. Confidence talk is elicited and strengthened.
Phase 2 of MI includes a strengthening of commitment to change. For this stage the counselor must recognize readiness for change. Signs of this readiness include: decreased resistance; decreased discussion of the problem; resolve; change talk; questions about change; envisioning; and experiment...