How to Stop Shrinking in Conversations | Build Confidence with Motivational Interviewing

Most people think confidence is something you’re born with.It’s not.In this episode of MI For Change, Dr. Monica Gilbert breaks down the real reason you feel yourself shrinking in difficult conversations—and how to finally show up with confidence, clarity, and presence.Whether you're speaking to a client, parent, boss, or team member…that moment of overthinking, second-guessing, and wanting to “get it right” can take over fast.But here’s the shift:Confidence doesn’t come from controlling the conversation.It comes from knowing how to navigate it.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why anxiety shows up in high-stakes conversationsHow the “fixing reflex” actually makes you feel less confidentThe mindset shift from control → curiosityHow to read the room using your “conversation thermometer”What to say instead of correcting, confronting, or over-explainingHow to use simple MI tools like reflections and open-ended questions naturallyYou’ll also hear a real consultation example where a clinician struggled to “confront” a client—and how reframing the approach completely changed the conversation.This episode is for therapists, BCBAs, leaders, and professionals who want to:✔ Speak with more confidence✔ Reduce anxiety in conversations✔ Build stronger relationships✔ Stop overthinking what to sayBecause the goal isn’t to sound perfect…It’s to connect.Learn more about Motivational Interviewing and explore on-demand courses at www.drmonicagilbert.comJoin 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