Change Talk

Question 1

What is change talk?

Answer 1

Anything the client say that favors movement in the direction of change.

Question 2

What is sustain talk?

Answer 2

Opposite of change talk, favors the status quo. “I’m not interested in changing”, “I dont think I could change so why try”, “I don’t need to change”

Question 3

What is the acronym used to describe various types of change talk?

Answer 3

DARN CAT

Preparatory Change Talk – “thinking about changing”
Desire – I want to, I would like to, I wish, I hope
Ability – I can, I could, I am able to
Reasons – It would help me, I’d be better off if
Need – I need to, I have to, something has to change

Mobilizing Change Talk – “taking action”
Commitment– I will, I promise, I give you my word
Activation – I’m willing to, I am ready to, I am prepared to
Taking steps – I cut back on my weekend drinking