OARS
Also written as: OARS — Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries
Core communication skills in motivational interviewing: Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, and Summaries.
Full Definition
OARS represents the fundamental microskills that form the foundation of motivational interviewing practice. Open-ended questions encourage clients to elaborate and explore their experiences rather than giving yes/no answers. Affirmations recognize and reinforce client strengths and positive efforts. Reflections demonstrate active listening by restating, paraphrasing, or reflecting the emotional content of client statements. Summaries pull together key themes and help organize the conversation. These skills work together to create a collaborative, non-confrontational therapeutic environment that enhances client motivation for change.
Usage
Usage note: Specific to motivational interviewing methodology; not general counseling skills.
In Context
- "The counselor demonstrated excellent use of OARS skills during the motivational interviewing session." — Supervision notes
- "Staff training will focus on developing OARS proficiency for all clinical staff." — Training agenda