Written By: Ileana Berrios, MS, IBCLC
As lactation consultants, our goal is to support parents in making informed decisions about breastfeeding that align with their unique needs, values, and circumstances. One powerful tool we can use to facilitate this process is motivational interviewing (MI). MI is a client-centered, collaborative approach that helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about behavior change, ultimately empowering them to make positive choices. In this blog, we’ll explore how lactation consultants can effectively use MI techniques when counseling to promote informed-based decisions in breastfeeding.
1. Establishing Rapport and Building Trust:
The foundation of MI begins with establishing a strong rapport and building trust with the parent. By creating a safe and supportive environment, parents feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts, concerns, and aspirations regarding breastfeeding.
2. Eliciting the Parent’s Perspective:
Rather than assuming what the parent’s goals or motivations are, MI encourages us to actively listen and e​​licit their perspective. This involves asking open-ended questions, such as “What are your thoughts about breastfeeding?” or “What are your hopes for your breastfeeding journey?”
3. Exploring Ambivalence:
It’s common for parents to experience ambivalence or conflicting feelings about breastfeeding. MI allows us to explore these feelings in a non-judgmental way, acknowledging the complexities and challenges they may face. By reflecting back their ambivalence, we validate their experiences and create space for exploration.
4. Evoking Change Talk:
Through skillful questioning and reflection, lactation consultants can evoke “change talk” – statements that indicate a readiness or willingness to make positive changes. This may involve highlighting the benefits of breastfeeding, exploring past successes, or identifying personal values and goals related to breastfeeding.
5. Supporting Informed Decision-Making:
MI emphasizes autonomy and self-efficacy, empowering parents to make informed decisions that are aligned with their values and preferences. Lactation consultants can provide evidence-based information and resources to support parents in understanding their options and making confident choices.
6. Building Confidence and Commitment:
As parents express readiness for change, it’s important to reinforce their confidence and commitment to their breastfeeding goals. This may involve affirming their strengths and capabilities, exploring potential barriers or concerns, and collaboratively problem-solving to overcome challenges.
7. Following Up and Monitoring Progress:
MI is an ongoing process that extends beyond the initial counseling session. Lactation consultants can follow up with parents to provide ongoing support, encouragement, and accountability as they work towards their breastfeeding goals. By monitoring progress and adjusting strategies as needed, we can help parents stay motivated and engaged in their breastfeeding journey.
In conclusion, motivational interviewing is a valuable approach for promoting informed-based decisions in breastfeeding counseling. By fostering collaboration, exploring ambivalence, evoking change talk, and supporting autonomy, lactation consultants can empower parents to make positive choices that lead to successful breastfeeding outcomes. Let’s continue to integrate MI techniques into our practice, enhancing our ability to support and empower breastfeeding families.
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