Motivational Interviewing (MI) is particularly valuable for dissociation when ambivalence about change is blocking recovery.
Ambivalence in Dissociation
People with dissociation are often ambivalent about change — part wants relief, part fears the unknown of being without familiar dissociation patterns. This is normal, not resistance.
How MI Addresses Dissociation Ambivalence
MI uses specific techniques to help people explore and resolve their ambivalence about dissociation treatment:
- Reflective listening: Hearing and naming both sides of dissociation ambivalence
- Decisional balance: Exploring pros and cons of changing vs. staying the same with dissociation
- Evoking change talk: Drawing out the person's own reasons for addressing dissociation
- Affirming strengths: Highlighting past capacities relevant to dissociation recovery
MI in Dissociation Treatment Settings
MI is integrated into many dissociation treatment approaches as an engagement tool. It's particularly useful at the beginning of treatment and when motivation fluctuates.