MI for Change: Motivational Interviewing in ABA & Mental Health
MI for Change is the podcast dedicated to exploring Motivational Interviewing (MI) in behavior analysis and mental health. Hosted by Dr. Monica Gilbert, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Psychologist, this show helps professionals transform client conversations — one question at a time.
Each episode delivers:
✨ Practical MI strategies you can apply immediately in sessions
✨ Real case examples that bring concepts to life
✨ Inspiring interviews with experts across ABA and mental health
Whether you’re an ABA practitioner, therapist, counselor, or student, you’ll discover how simple shifts in communication can reduce resistance, strengthen rapport, and spark lasting change.
Because parent coaching and client conversations don’t have to feel like a struggle — they can be the spark that makes transformation possible.
Subscribe today and join the journey to becoming a more effective, confident, and client-centered communicator.
This is MI for Change.
MI for Change: Motivational Interviewing in ABA & Mental Health
The Pink Elephant in the Room — Having Hard Conversations with Clients
Have you ever avoided a difficult conversation with a client or parent because it felt too uncomfortable? You’re not alone.
In this episode of MI for Change, Dr. Monica Gilbert explores the “pink elephant in the room” — those unspoken issues that fill our emotional cup until it overflows.
Through a simple (and slightly wet!) metaphor, Monica illustrates how avoidance can build frustration and burnout — and how Motivational Interviewing (MI) gives us the tools to face those moments with courage and empathy.
You’ll learn:
✅ How to recognize when your “cup” is getting full and what to do before burnout hits
✅ Ways to address uncomfortable issues with clients using reflections, affirmations, and open-ended questions
✅ How to reframe confrontation as collaboration
✅ Real-life examples of boundary setting and repair from the field
💬 “When clients push back or avoid, that’s not rejection — it’s an invitation to communicate.”
If you’ve ever dreaded a hard conversation, this episode will help you build confidence, compassion, and connection — one reflection at a time.
💬 Join the Conversation:
What’s one tough conversation you’ve been avoiding — and what MI skill could help you approach it differently?
Reply or share your reflections in the comments!
Learn more about Motivational Interviewing and explore on-demand courses at www.drmonicagilbert.com
Join the MI Academy for practical training and resources — and enjoy an exclusive 15% off with code MIFORCHANGE at checkout.
📲 Connect with me on Instagram: @drmonicagilbert