MI for Change: Motivational Interviewing in ABA & Mental Health

MI Mailbag — Reflections, Follow-Through, Burnout & “No Time” Objections

Monica Gilbert Season 1 Episode 12

Ever worry your reflections sound “therapist-y”? Struggle when parents say they don’t have time? Wonder how to prevent burnout, improve follow-through, or use MI with supervisees who insist “I tried that—it doesn’t work”?

In this MI for Change Q&A episode, Dr. Monica Gilbert answers the most common questions she gets at conferences, webinars, and supervision sessions. You’ll hear practical, real-world strategies for applying Motivational Interviewing (MI) across ABA and mental health settings—parent coaching, clinical work, and supervision.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Use reflections without sounding repetitive (and let them land)
  • Respond when parents say “I don’t have time” (add value + restore autonomy)
  • Avoid sounding fake while still using MI skills authentically
  • Increase follow-through when clients/parents agree but don’t act
  • Navigate supervisees who say “I tried it, it didn’t work” (evoke solutions)
  • Access empathy when you’re frustrated or burned out (and when to pause)
  • Use MI when parents are in denial about a diagnosis (plant seeds, pace)
  • Know if you’re enabling vs. facilitating change (track change talk)
  • Decide when to pause or end services (align with the Stages of Change)

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