When a client resists changing, which principle should guide your response?

• A. Confront the client
• B. Roll with Resistance
• C. Ignore concerns
• D. Press for quick agreement

Answer: (B)

When a client resists change, respond by rolling with resistance. This means recognizing that resistance is a natural part of the change process and choosing not to meet it with argument or pressure. Instead, stay curious and collaborative: validate what the client is feeling, reflect back what you’re hearing, and invite them to explore their ambivalence. This approach preserves the client’s sense of autonomy and makes them a active partner in the change process. Through reflective listening, open-ended questions, and affirmations, you help them voice their own reasons for change, which strengthens motivation and engagement in recovery.

Confronting the client tends to raise defensiveness and shut down honest conversation. Ignoring concerns signals that you’re not taking their experience seriously. Pressing for quick agreement imposes change and can erode trust and collaboration.