Psychotherapeutic Session Plan: Motivational Interviewing for Substance Use
Session Length
60 Minutes
Patient Mood
Main Condition
- Non-specific psychotherapeutic issues
Session Objectives
- To engage the patient by addressing their frustration.
- To explore the relationship between substance use and their current mindset.
- To establish small, achievable goals that promote behavioral change.
Therapeutic Technique
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) focusing on enhancing the patient’s intrinsic motivation toward positive change.
Coping Techniques
- Setting Small, Achievable Goals
- Reframing Negative Thoughts
Session Structure
1. Welcoming and Establishing Rapport (10 Minutes)
- Opener: Greet the patient warmly and acknowledge their frustration.
- Empathize: "I see that you're feeling frustrated. Can you tell me a bit more about what's been bothering you lately?"
- Active Listening: Reflect back what the patient shares to validate their feelings and establish trust.
2. Exploring Frustration and Substance Use (15 Minutes)
- Open Discussion: Ask guiding questions to understand how their frustration relates to substance use.
- "How do you feel substances fit into your life right now?"
- "In moments of frustration, what are your usual coping strategies?"
- Motivational Interviewing Techniques: Use reflective listening to help the patient articulate their feelings and identify ambivalence towards change.
3. Reframing Negative Thoughts (15 Minutes)
- Introduce the Concept: Explain how negative thoughts can hinder progress.
- Exercise: Engage the patient in identifying one negative thought they have regarding their situation (e.g., "I cannot trust anyone").
- Ask them to consider a more positive reframe. For instance, "What would it look like to trust someone, even a little?"
- Share Examples: Provide examples of reframed thoughts to inspire the patient.
4. Setting Small, Achievable Goals (15 Minutes)
- Goal Setting Discussion: Collaborate with the patient to set two small, achievable goals for the coming week that relate to reducing substance use.
- Example goals may include "I will refrain from using substances on at least two days this week" or "I will practice one healthy coping strategy when I feel frustrated."
- SMART Framework: Encourage them to frame their goals using the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
- Encourage Commitment: Ask the patient how they will hold themselves accountable for these goals.
5. Improving Problem-Solving Skills (5 Minutes)
- Skill Development: Discuss techniques for improving problem-solving skills in moments of frustration.
- Suggest step-by-step problem-solving:
- Define the problem.
- Consider possible solutions.
- Evaluate the pros and cons of each solution.
- Select a solution and implement it.
- Practice Example: Role-play a simple scenario where the patient can practice these steps.
6. Closing and Homework Assignment (5 Minutes)
- Summarize Key Points: Recap what was discussed, emphasizing the importance of small goals and reframing negative thoughts.
- Assignment: Encourage the patient to keep a daily journal for the week, noting any moments of frustration and their chosen coping strategies. Ask them to reflect on their thoughts about trusting others.
- Feedback Request: Ask for feedback about the session to improve future meetings.
Follow-Up
- Plan to revisit the patient’s progress on their goals and reflections in the next session.
- Be prepared to adjust the therapeutic approach based on the patient’s feedback and engagement levels.
By utilizing the structure and techniques outlined above, this session aims to promote self-efficacy in the patient while addressing their frustration and substance use through a supportive and motivational framework.