The Curiosity Mind Hack — Reframing How You Enter Sessions

What if one simple mindset shift could completely change the tone of your sessions?

In this episode of MI for Change, Dr. Monica Gilbert shares a practical “mind hack” that can transform how you show up with clients, parents, and teams — especially when sessions feel repetitive or resistant.

Fresh from her experience at the MINT (Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers) conference, Monica reflects on what it really means to be someone worth talking to — and how approaching sessions with curiosity and a blank-slate mindset can foster empathy, trust, and genuine collaboration.

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

✅ Why your mindset before a session shapes the outcome more than you think
✅ How to use curiosity as a clinical tool to uncover what’s really behind resistance
✅ The importance of starting fresh with each client — the “blank slate” approach
✅ How to “hack your brain” to stay open and calm, even during tough sessions
✅ Practical language shifts to build buy-in and connection instantly
✅ A powerful quote by Helen Mentha that redefines how we show up for our clients

“Before you enter that room, remind yourself: Today, I’m going in with curiosity.”

🧠 Quote of the Week

“Be somewhat good to talk to.
If you offer appointments, be someone worth going to see.
If you do home visits, be someone you’d want to let in your house.
If you see mandated clients, be a relief.”
— Helen Mentha

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