When a service user is ready to plan for the desired change, some practitioners may automatically revert to the role of an expert and offer suggestions for how and when the service user could implement the change. However, as you learned in Week 2, taking on the role of an expert is counterproductive to the spirit of motivational interviewing. Service users are more likely to follow through with a plan for change they conceived themselves as opposed to a plan that was conceived for them. As a result, it is often useful to ask service users key questions (such as, “Where do you go from here?” and “What happens next?”) to encourage them to create their own plan for change.
In this Discussion, you will use key questions to help the service user in your case study move from commitment to planning. You also will identify resources from your own community that you would refer to the service user.
Full Answer Section
Example Dialogue:
Me: "Sarah, you've been very clear about your desire to cut back on your drinking. Now, I'd like to help you think about some specific steps you can take. Where do you go from here?"
Sarah: "Well, I think I need to stop drinking on weekdays. That's when it's most out of control."
Me: "That's a great starting point. What happens next? How will you handle those nights when you typically drink on weekdays?"
Sarah: "I'm not sure. Maybe I could try substituting with a non-alcoholic beverage or maybe go for a walk instead."
Me: "That's a great idea! What else might help you achieve this goal?"
Sarah: "I think it would be helpful to talk to someone about my struggles. Maybe a therapist?"
Me: "I'm glad you're thinking about getting support. I'm familiar with a wonderful therapist in the area who specializes in alcohol use disorder. Would you be open to talking to them?"
Sarah: "Yes, I think that would be great."
Me: "That's wonderful! I also want to make sure you know about support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. They can be a huge source of strength and connection."
Through this guided dialogue, Sarah has begun to develop her own plan for change, identifying specific steps, potential challenges, and resources to support her journey. By focusing on her agency and empowering her to create her own path, I am fostering her commitment and increasing her chances of sustained success.
Sample Answer
Moving from Commitment to Planning: Guiding the Service User with Key Questions and Resources
In my case study, the service user, Sarah, has expressed a strong commitment to reducing her alcohol consumption. She acknowledges the negative impact it has on her life and is motivated to make a change. To help her transition from commitment to a concrete plan, I will utilize motivational interviewing techniques and key questions to encourage her ownership of the process.
Key Questions for Planning:
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"Where do you go from here?": This open-ended question invites Sarah to start thinking about the first steps she wants to take. It allows her to articulate her own ideas and goals, fostering a sense of autonomy.
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"What happens next?": Building on the previous question, this inquiry encourages Sarah to consider the next steps in her journey, moving beyond the immediate decision to reduce drinking.
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"What might help you achieve your goal?": This question prompts Sarah to identify potential supports or strategies she can utilize to facilitate her change.
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"What might be a challenge for you in making this change?": Addressing potential obstacles upfront allows Sarah to anticipate and plan for them, increasing her chances of success.
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"What are some things you can do to overcome these challenges?": Empowering Sarah to brainstorm solutions to potential challenges builds her confidence and reinforces her self-efficacy.
Community Resources:
Based on Sarah's expressed needs and goals, I would recommend the following community resources:
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Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery Meetings: These support groups offer peer support, guidance, and coping strategies for individuals seeking to reduce or abstain from alcohol use.
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Mental Health Services: If Sarah has underlying mental health concerns contributing to her alcohol use, referring her to a therapist or counselor can provide additional support and address those issues.
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Local Health Department: The local health department can provide information on alcohol use disorder, treatment options, and community resources.
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Support Groups for Families of Alcoholics: If Sarah has a supportive family or friends, recommending resources for families can help create a more understanding and supportive environment.