What’s the Most Powerful Training I Ever Took? I’d Love to Tell You.
Meg Bowman MS CNS LDN CHES
By far, the hardest and most valuable training I ever took in the last decade was in motivational interviewing for nutrition providers. We met in person in a classroom in Chicago, and ripped off the bandaid, learning skill after skill and then immediately applying them in practice with each other. We couldn’t make a single suggestion THE WHOLE WEEKEND, and weren’t allowed to do any nutrition education either. What we were allowed to do was to pull out interventions from our partners, discovering what they wanted to do to better their health. I remember coming to this workshop with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. How could a communication technique make such a profound difference in my practice? Little did I know that I was about to embark on a journey that would revolutionize the way I interacted with my clients and ultimately transform their lives.
This weekend marked a transformational shift in how I work with clients. I spend time in each nutrition session using motivational interviewing within a coaching model. Why? Because it works. Let’s look at it more closely.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a counseling approach that originated in the field of addiction treatment but has since been widely adopted in various healthcare settings, including nutrition. It is a collaborative and person-centered method of communication that aims to elicit and strengthen an individual's motivation to make positive behavioral changes. The underlying philosophy of MI aligns perfectly with our role as nutrition professionals: to empower clients and support them in achieving their health goals. Stated another way, using motivational interviewing in session is a radically client-centered approach to nutrition.
“Using motivational interviewing in session is a radically client-centered approach to nutrition”
The workshop started with an introduction to the spirit of MI, which emphasized the importance of collaboration, evocation, and autonomy. MI is not about imposing our knowledge or telling clients what to do; it is about fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make their own choices. This shift in mindset was a game-changer for me. I realized that my role was not to be the expert with all the answers but rather a facilitator of change, walking alongside my clients on their unique journey.
One of the most powerful aspects of MI is its focus on evoking clients' own motivations for change. Instead of bombarding them with information and trying to convince them to follow a particular plan, MI encourages us to explore their intrinsic motivations, values, and goals. By listening deeply and asking open-ended questions, we can uncover the client's underlying desires and reasons for change. This collaborative exploration creates a strong foundation for sustained behavior change, as it is driven by the client's own intrinsic motivation rather than external pressure.
During the workshop, we practiced various MI techniques, such as reflective listening, open-ended questions, affirmations, and summaries. These seemingly simple tools proved to be incredibly powerful in building rapport, fostering empathy, and deepening our understanding of the client's perspective. Reflective listening, in particular, helped me to truly hear and validate my clients' experiences, showing them that I genuinely cared and respected their autonomy. This profound sense of empathy and understanding became the cornerstone of our therapeutic relationship.
Another key aspect of MI is the concept of "change talk." Change talk refers to the client's own expressions of motivation, desire, ability, and reasons for change. By actively listening for change talk and gently reinforcing it, we can amplify the client's commitment to change. This positive reinforcement strengthens their self-efficacy and belief in their ability to overcome obstacles and achieve their health goals. Witnessing the transformation that occurs when clients tap into their own reservoir of motivation is awe-inspiring and deeply rewarding.
“Implementing MI in my practice had a profound impact on client outcomes.”
Implementing MI in my practice had a profound impact on client outcomes. I noticed a significant increase in engagement and collaboration, as clients felt empowered to take ownership of their health journey. They no longer saw me as an authority figure dictating their choices but as a trusted partner, guiding and supporting them along the way. Clients became more open to exploring their ambivalence and resistance, allowing for meaningful discussions and breakthroughs. The emphasis on autonomy and self-discovery led to sustainable behavior change and improved long-term outcomes.
Motivational interviewing has not only enhanced my ability to support clients in making positive changes, but it has also transformed the way I approach conversations and interactions in all aspects of my life. The skills and principles I learned in that training have become an integral part of who I am as a nutrition provider and a person. I have become a better listener, a more empathetic communicator, and a stronger advocate for my clients' autonomy and well-being.
If you haven't yet explored the world of motivational interviewing, I highly recommend seeking out a training opportunity and invite you to consider Nested Health Coach Certification where we dig deep into root-cause challenges to behavior change and utilize motivational interviewing as a primary intervention. Motivational interviewing is a powerful tool that has the potential to transform not only your practice but also your perspective on communication and human behavior.
So, take the leap and discover the magic of motivational interviewing. Join me on this journey of empowering individuals, fostering meaningful change, and becoming the best version of ourselves as nutrition providers. The most powerful training I ever took has shaped my career and my life, and I'm excited for you to experience its impact as well. Sign up for a free info session today to discover how Nested Health Coach Certification can support your development as a nutrition provider.
XOXO, Meg