Your client is resistant to affirmations. How can you break through their dismissive behavior?

1 Understand Resistance

Resistance is a natural response when individuals feel their sense of autonomy is threatened. In the context of MI, it's crucial to recognize that your client's dismissiveness towards affirmations isn't a sign of defiance but rather an indication of their current state of readiness for change. Approach this resistance with genuine curiosity. Ask open-ended questions to explore their beliefs about affirmations and listen actively to their concerns. This non-confrontational engagement helps you understand the root of their resistance and demonstrates your respect for their perspective.

2 Reflective Listening

Reflective listening is a core skill in MI that involves mirroring back what the client has said, showing that you've heard and understood them. When a client resists affirmations, use reflective listening to acknowledge their feelings without judgment. This can help them feel heard and may lower their defensive barriers. By reflecting their sentiments accurately, you create a safe space for them to further explore their feelings about affirmations and potentially reconsider their stance.

4 Elicit Change Talk

Change talk is any client speech that favors movement toward a particular goal or behavior change. When dealing with resistance to affirmations, your goal is to elicit change talk that reveals the client's desires, abilities, reasons, and need for change. Encouraging your client to express in their own words why they might want to use affirmations, how they might benefit from them, or what could be different if they did, can help them see affirmations in a new light.

5 Develop Discrepancy

Developing discrepancy involves helping clients see the gap between where they are and where they want to be. In the case of resistance to affirmations, guide your client to reflect on how their current dismissive behavior aligns with their broader goals for therapy or personal growth. By highlighting this discrepancy, you can gently challenge them to consider whether their resistance is serving them well or if embracing affirmations could help bridge the gap toward their desired outcomes.