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Early Traps
The following traps represent various forms of
counselor advocacy that are easy to fall into during the early stages of
establishing collaboration for change with your client. To avoid these
traps, keep in mind the motivational interviewing methods for developing
intrinsic motivation and supporting client autonomy.
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Question &
Answer Trap:
You ask
closed questions that your client can answer with short, non-revealing
answers.
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Example
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Avoid It
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Taking
Sides Trap:
You
advocate for change and the client argues for the status quo.
more>>
Example
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Avoid It
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Expert
Trap:
You adopt the role of the knowledgeable “problem solver”
and prescribe solutions for your client who becomes the passive
recipient of expert advice.
more>>
Example
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Avoid It
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Labeling
Trap:
You define or describe your client by a diagnosis or as having a
problem, and the client resists the labeling.
more>>
Example
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Avoid It
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Premature
Focus Trap:
You focus
the counseling on areas and issues that you identify as important before
you fully understand what is important to your client.
more>>
Example
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Avoid It
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Blaming
Trap:
The client is defensive about being blamed by you or
others for his or her situation.
more>>
Example
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Avoid It
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