Pros and Cons at the Choice Point — Clinician dialogue

Invite and obtain permission

Offer: "Would it be useful to explore pros and cons at the choice point using an ordinary or fictional example? We can adapt it, observe, or stop." Ask what the person wants from the conversation.

Elicit before teaching

Ask: "How does this show up, if at all, in your own words?" Offer this idea tentatively: Comparing options can include immediate and delayed consequences. Ask what fits and what does not.

Guide the task

Create a four-part comparison of acting on an urge or using an alternative, without shaming the urge. Ask for permission before giving an example. Use this fictional illustration if useful: Taylor wants to abandon a difficult task and considers a brief support break.

Reflect and check accuracy

Reflect only what was offered: "I heard you describe ___. What did I miss?" Ask: Which consequence matters most at this choice point? Avoid assigning motives or interpreting silence as agreement.

Respond to a mismatch

If the person rejects the frame, say: "Thank you for correcting it. What would be more useful?" Return to their language or choose a different approach.

Close with agency

Ask which observation, question, or support request the person wants to keep. Confirm a manageable ending and appropriate follow-up; do not turn a tentative possibility into a homework obligation.

Prompts for this resource

1. Readiness, permission, cultural context, and access needs to check:
2. Which consequence matters most at this choice point?
3. What would tell me to adapt, stop, or seek supervision?