CRSS - Certified Recovery Support Specialist Motivational Interviewing and Engagement Questions and Answers Flashcards

What is 'discord' in Motivational Interviewing (formerly called 'resistance')?

Answer: A rupture in the collaborative relationship signaling something needs to shift

Discord signals that the specialist-client relationship has been strained and the specialist should adjust their approach rather than push harder.

A summary in MI is most useful for:

Answer: Transitioning topics, reinforcing change talk, and demonstrating active listening

Summaries in MI serve to collect and reflect key themes — especially change talk — helping the client hear their own words and move forward.

Which MI process involves strengthening the client's commitment and developing a specific change plan?

Answer: Planning

The Planning process in MI helps the client translate motivation into concrete steps and build a commitment to change.

What does 'meeting the client where they are' mean in recovery support practice?

Answer: Accepting the client's current stage of change without judgment

This principle means acknowledging the client's current readiness level and working from that point rather than imposing expectations.

A CRSS specialist notices a client is in the 'Preparation' stage of change. The most appropriate action is to:

Answer: Help the client build a specific action plan

In the Preparation stage, the client is committed to changing soon, so helping develop a concrete plan is the most effective support.

Which of the following best describes the MI principle of 'compassion'?

Answer: Actively promoting the client's wellbeing and placing their interests first

Compassion in MI means having a genuine commitment to the client's welfare and prioritizing their best interests above other agendas.