Facilitating discrepancy, I often use this technique to help clients explore between their values and their behaviour. An example of this is when my clients minimise their partners abuse and portray it in a way that they find acceptable. By active listening when they make disclosures, I then ask open ended questions such as “What values did you want in a partner, prior to this relationship?” reflecting on their values and recognising how accepting their perpetrators behaviour is inconsistent with those values, facilitates discrepancy. By helping the client explore between their values and their perpetrators behaviour, I can help the client build motivation to work towards independence or a healthier, more boundaried relationship.
Expressing empathy through motivational interviewing can be achieved by using reflective listening and demonstrating an understanding of the client's experiences and emotions. For example, if a client says, "I feel so alone and isolated," I could respond with “It sounds like you're feeling really isolated and feel like you don't have anyone to turn to." This can help the client feel heard and understood. I also often use affirmations to acknowledge the client's strengths and efforts. For example, by saying "It
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An example of how I have used this technique is when asking clients "What are some things that you've done in the past that have helped you cope with difficult situations?" I do this to enable my client to recognise their own strengths and it also helps me develop more of an understanding of how my client is likely to react when faced with danger. I would also work with my client to develop a plan for change which is both achievable and realistic by breaking goals down into manageable steps, if the client identifies barriers they may face, I would work with them to develop strategies to overcome the barriers giving them a sense of preparation and