In Motivational Interviewing, whenever we open a conversation, share information, or ask questions of our clients, a respectful way to do this is by Asking for Permission. In addition, when speaking with a client, we want to focus on using autonomy-supportive language as much as possible. When our communication has implication for client change, we need to be aware of how we present information. This can include the tone in our voice, the way we communicate non-verbally, and the signals we are picking up from the client. All of these factors can make a difference in how the information is received by the client, especially our language since it can often either support or undermine the client鈥檚 autonomy.
Please find below several examples of using autonomy-supportive language in communicating with a client. And it all starts with聽Asking for Permission:
鈥� We鈥檙e starting a new program in the clinic to talk with clients about medication adherence. Would you mind if I talked with you a few minutes about the questions you answered earlier?
鈥� I always ask my clients about tobacco, alcohol, drug use, and safer sex practices. I would like to ask you also鈥�is that OK?
鈥� If it鈥檚 all right with you, I鈥檇 like to talk with you now about how you are taking your medications.
Again, our language with clients is extremely important and we want to make sure we do not speak in a way that removes choices. 聽Instead, we want to focus on being respectful and use autonomy-supportive language.
For more information about motivational interviewing or related services, contact Eunice Akinyi Okumu, by phone (919) 843-2532, or by email, eunice_okumu@med.unc.edu