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