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You're guiding clients through complex emotions. How do you balance listening with giving advice?

When guiding clients through complex emotions, motivational interviewing (MI) can help balance listening with giving advice. Here's how you can use MI effectively:

  • Ask open-ended questions: Encourage clients to share their thoughts and feelings without feeling judged.

  • Reflective listening: Paraphrase what clients say to show understanding and validate their experiences.

  • Offer advice sparingly: Use "Elicit-Provide-Elicit" to seek permission before giving advice and ensure it's relevant.

What strategies do you find most effective when guiding clients through emotional challenges? Share your thoughts.

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Motivational Interviewing

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You're guiding clients through complex emotions. How do you balance listening with giving advice?

When guiding clients through complex emotions, motivational interviewing (MI) can help balance listening with giving advice. Here's how you can use MI effectively:

  • Ask open-ended questions: Encourage clients to share their thoughts and feelings without feeling judged.

  • Reflective listening: Paraphrase what clients say to show understanding and validate their experiences.

  • Offer advice sparingly: Use "Elicit-Provide-Elicit" to seek permission before giving advice and ensure it's relevant.

What strategies do you find most effective when guiding clients through emotional challenges? Share your thoughts.

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3 answers
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    Dr Prasanta Kumar Padhi

    Principal @ Higher Education Govt of Odisha | PhD, HR, Writing, Author of 8 books, Academic Mentor and Writer, Creative writer, Journalism, Linkedin Top Voice ,Translator

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    When guiding clients through emotional challenges, Motivational Interviewing (MI) helps create a safe space for growth and reflection. Open-ended questions allow clients to express emotions freely, fostering trust. Reflective listening builds connection—when clients hear their experiences paraphrased, they feel validated and understood. Offering advice sparingly, using the "Elicit-Provide-Elicit" method, keeps the conversation collaborative: ask for permission, share tailored insights, and check for their thoughts. This approach respects autonomy and promotes meaningful change. What techniques do you rely on to navigate sensitive emotional conversations? Share your insights!

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    Devora Segall

    Licensed Clinical Social Worker at SEGALL THERAPEUTICS, Author

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    I validate and reflect for as long as the client needs it. Then I ask if they are interested in hearing some ideas that people have found helpful.

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    Doaa Bazan

    Health Coach | NBC-HWC |Pharmacist

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    Always ask for permission before giving advice. The act of only listening can be enough. Ask the person directly how can I help you.

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