Lesson 5 Preparation

Motivational Interviewing in Coaching

When clients fail to progress, they need empathy, validation, respect, and tools that enhance intrinsic
motivation and build self-efficacy. Lesson 5 introduces two bodies of knowledge that can assist coaches
with these important tasks: Nonviolent Communication (NVC), based on the work of Marshall Rosenberg,
and Motivational Interviewing (MI), based on the work of William Miller and Stephen Rollnick. The key is
to communicate in ways that evoke change-talk rather than resistance-talk.

Please complete before Lesson 5:

1. Read Chapter 5: Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) in

Coaching

2. Review and practice using the MI & NVC Approaches in Coaching

3. Read the following articles related to MI & NVC:

An Introduction to Nonviolent Communication

MI and the Stages of Change
Introduction to MI for Health, Fitness, & Wellness Coaches
MI and Self-Determination Theory
Changing Behavior Using MI Techniques

4. If time permits, listen to the following:

MI Class Presented by Robert Rhode – Part One

MI Class Presented by Robert Rhode – Part Two
MI Class Presented by Robert Rhode – Part Three
MI Class Presented by Robert Rhode – Part Four

Empathy and NVC Presented by Bob Tschannen-Moran – Part One

Empathy and NVC Presented by Bob Tschannen-Moran – Part Two
Empathy and NVC Presented by Bob Tschannen-Moran – Part Three

Be Prepared to Discuss:

The distinctions between pity, sympathy, and empathy

What assists you in maintaining an empathetic presence with others
Stories from your own life that illustrate the process of becoming more resistant , or open, to
change
Your observations of the coaching demonstration conducted in class

August 2010