Show Notes
How can Motivational Interviewing be adapted when working with people who have experienced a brain injury? In Episode 77 of Talking to Change, Glenn Hinds and Sebastian Kaplan speak with Russha Knauer about using MI with people affected by brain injury, including cognitive and communication challenges practitioners may need to consider.
The conversation explores how practitioners can adapt their communication while maintaining the collaborative Spirit of MI. Russha draws on her experience in criminal justice and with the MINDSOURCE Brain Injury Network to consider the importance of flexibility, careful listening and working alongside the person rather than imposing a predetermined approach.
Motivational Interviewing and brain injury
Russha explores applying Motivational Interviewing with people who have experienced a brain injury. The discussion considers how MI can remain collaborative while responding flexibly to the cognitive and communication needs of the person.
These themes connect with the wider principles of Motivational Interviewing, particularly Partnership, Acceptance and Reflective Listening.
In this episode
0:00 – Opening and episode preview
5:05 – Russha’s introduction, her early MI story and applying MI in juvenile justice settings
17:15 – Transition to working with people who have experienced brain injury
27:00 – Challenges in caring for people with brain injury
46:55 – Applications of Motivational Interviewing
1:12:36 – End of episode
About Russha Knauer
Russha has a BA in psychology and a master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration. She joined the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers in San Diego in 2009. Before joining the MINDSOURCE Brain Injury Network, she spent 20 years working in juvenile and criminal justice. Her work includes exploring how Motivational Interviewing can be adapted for people who have experienced an injury to the brain.
Links and contact information
Email: [email protected]
Website: MINDSOURCE Brain Injury Network
To explore the ideas and skills behind this conversation further, visit the Motivational Interviewing Knowledge Centre.
Listen to Episode 77
Contact Talking to Change
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Glenn: [email protected]
Sebastian: [email protected]
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@talkingtochange.bsky.social
@glennhinds.bsky.social
@sgkfromnc.bsky.social
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