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