How to Use OARS Across the Four Processes of MI

Are your sessions starting to feel like you’re just chatting without real movement toward change?

In this episode of MI for Change, Dr. Monica Gilbert breaks down how to combine the OARS skills (Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries) with the four processes of Motivational Interviewing (Engage, Focus, Evoke, Plan) — so your conversations feel purposeful, not random.

Using a fun “building a closet” metaphor (yes, with almost-divorce-level assembly stress 😅), Monica shows you how OARS are your tools, and the four processes are your roadmap. When you put them together intentionally, you stop spinning in circles and start guiding clients toward meaningful, sustainable change.

Whether you’re a BCBA, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or other helping professional, this episode will help you:

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

What OARS really are (from an MI and behavior-analytic lens)How to use OARS differently in each process:
Engaging – using OARS to build trust and rapportFocusing – narrowing in on what actually matters (together)Evoking – drawing out the client’s own reasons for change (DARN CAT!)Planning – turning “why” into “how” with collaborative action steps
Why empathy alone isn’t enough if there’s no movement toward changeHow to avoid getting stuck in endless venting or “nice” sessions with no directionA simple reflection prompt you can ask yourself before your next session:

Which process is my client in right now? And which OARS skill fits best here?

Learn more about Motivational Interviewing and explore on-demand courses at www.drmonicagilbert.com

Join the MI Academy for practical training and resources — and enjoy an exclusive 15% off with code MIFORCHANGE at checkout.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram: @drmonicagilbert