CASAC Motivational Interviewing and Counseling Skills

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the 'spirit' of Motivational Interviewing (MI)?

Accepted Answer

A collaborative, person-centered approach that evokes intrinsic motivation for change

Answer

The spirit of MI is characterized by collaboration, evocation, and autonomy — it is person-centered and draws out the client's own motivation rather than imposing it.

Question 2

What does the acronym OARS stand for in Motivational Interviewing?

Accepted Answer

Open questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, Summaries

Answer

OARS (Open questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, Summaries) are the core communication skills used in MI to engage clients and elicit change talk.

Question 3

In Motivational Interviewing, 'change talk' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Client statements that favor movement toward change

Answer

Change talk consists of the client's own statements that reflect desire, ability, reasons, need, or commitment to change, which are key predictors of behavior change.

Question 4

A client says, 'I know I drink too much, but I'm not sure I want to quit.' This statement best reflects which stage of the Transtheoretical Model?

Accepted Answer

Contemplation

Answer

Contemplation is characterized by ambivalence — the client recognizes a problem and is weighing the pros and cons of change but has not committed to action.

Question 5

Which MI technique involves the counselor intentionally highlighting discrepancies between a client's stated values and their current behavior?

Accepted Answer

Developing discrepancy

Answer

Developing discrepancy is a core MI strategy where the counselor helps the client see the gap between their values or goals and their current behavior to increase motivation for change.

CASAC - Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Practice Test

CASAC - Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Practice Test

CASAC Motivational Interviewing and Counseling Skills