Ambivalence

Ambivalence is the state of holding mixed or conflicting feelings about a person, situation, or decision. It is a common experience in therapy when clients both want to change and resist change simultaneously.

Key Points:

• Everyday Example: Being both excited and fearful about a new job.
• In Therapy: Recognizing and exploring ambivalence is often a crucial step in motivational interviewing.
• Resolution: Acknowledging contradictory feelings can lead to clarity and better decision-making.