Here are examples of short client statements and practitioner responses. Review these exchanges and then decide if the practitioner's response is consistent with the spirit of MI (thumbs up) or not (thumbs down). You might want to jot down a few notes as to why you rated each sample as you did. Then look at the discussion for each example at the end of this exercise. 1. Sarah's husband (Richard): I'm just furious that she lied to me and had this affair behind my back. I can't believe I didn't see it. I feel like such an idiot. Practitioner: In retrospect, what signs did you overlook? Thumbs up Thumbs down Why? 2. Arthur: I know my dad told you I'm depressed, but I'm not. Just because I don't want to play football doesn't mean I'm depressed. Practitioner: Your father is worrying needlessly. What do you think he's seeing that makes him worry this way? Thumbs up Thumbs down Why? 3. Tanya: I need to come up with some sort of plan to help me get back on track now. This health crisis has thrown me for a loop. I can't think about anything else. What do you think I should do? Practitioner: Well, I have some ideas about what might help, but first let me hear what you've already consid- ered. Thumbs up Thumbs down Why? 4. Arthur: I'm not going to keep that stupid thought journal. How does it help me to monitor my "loser" thinking? I'm coming here to feel better, and paying attention to all that makes me feel worse. Practitioner: OK, Arthur, you might be right. This works for many folks