Facilitating Change: A New Lens on Patient Resistance

Why do people resist change—and how can clinicians respond more effectively?

In this insightful conversation, Simon Matthews and Darren explore the complex role of resistance in clinical practice, tracing its historical roots in psychology and reframing it as a valuable resource rather than a barrier. They discuss how autonomy, systemic influences, and patient motivations shape behaviour—and how curiosity can be a powerful tool for understanding and supporting patients on their journey to change.

Key insights from this episode:
💡Resistance is not a personality trait—it’s a signal to explore deeper
💡Freud’s early ideas on defence mechanisms and their influence today
💡The importance of autonomy in driving sustainable behaviour change
💡How systemic and environmental factors influence patient decisions
💡Why ambivalence reveals the value of different choices
💡The clinician’s role as a facilitator, not a dictator of change
💡How curiosity and reframing resistance can improve clinical outcomes

This episode is a must-listen for clinicians, health coaches, and anyone interested in the psychology of behaviour change and patient engagement.

 

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