How do you engage and support reluctant or resistant participants in CISM processes?

2 Offer choices and flexibility

Respecting the autonomy and dignity of CISM participants is a key principle, so it’s important to provide them with choices and flexibility. This includes informing them of the benefits and limitations of CISM, as well as addressing any myths or misconceptions. You should also explain the voluntary and confidential nature of CISM, and the rights and responsibilities of the participants. Invite them to attend a CISM intervention without pressuring or obligating them, and allow them to choose the type, format, and frequency of CISM interventions that suit their needs and preferences. Additionally, accommodate their availability, accessibility, and convenience in terms of time, location, and mode of delivery. Respect their cultural, religious, or personal values and preferences, involve interpreters, mediators, or advocates if needed, and encourage them to bring a support person if they wish. Offering choices and flexibility will empower the person to make informed decisions about participating in CISM and feel more comfortable.

3 Build rapport and trust

Establishing rapport and trust with participants is an important principle of CISM, as it can help reduce anxiety and fear, and increase their willingness to engage in CISM processes. To build rapport and trust, introduce yourself and explain the purpose of CISM with a warm, friendly, and supportive tone. Show genuine interest and empathy for the person and their situation, validate their feelings, and acknowledge their strengths. Avoid judging or criticizing them for their choices, respect their boundaries, and follow through on your promises. By creating a safe environment through building rapport and trust, the person will be more willing to participate in CISM.

4 Use motivational interviewing techniques

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a collaborative and goal-oriented communication method that can help elicit and strengthen a person's motivation for change, especially when engaging or supporting reluctant or resistant participants in CISM processes. You can do this by asking open-ended questions that invite the person to explore their reasons for and against participating in CISM, using reflective listening to summarize and clarify what the person says, expressing affirmation that recognizes and reinforces the person's efforts, abilities, and values, eliciting change talk that highlights their desire, ability, reason, or need for participating in CISM, rolling with resistance by avoiding arguments or confrontations, and supporting self-efficacy by emphasizing their belief in their own capacity to participate in CISM. By doing so, you can facilitate the individual's decision-making process and increase their engagement and commitment to CISM.

5 Provide ongoing support and follow-up

It is important to provide ongoing support and follow-up for the person who participates in CISM processes, particularly if they were initially reluctant or resistant. This can help them remain involved and satisfied, as well as address any issues or challenges that may come up. To do this, you should check in with them regularly to monitor their progress and well-being, provide feedback and reinforcement for their participation and achievements, offer additional resources or referrals if needed or requested, address any questions or concerns they may have about CISM or their situation, solicit their feedback and suggestions for improving CISM services, and thank them for their participation and cooperation. By providing ongoing support and follow-up, you can demonstrate your appreciation and care for the person, while fostering a positive and lasting relationship.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?