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