Reviewing the Basics: Reflections in Motivational Interviewing by Liz Barnett, PhD, MSW
Keeping reflections "short and sweet" will help you keep clients engaged and the conversation heading in the right direction. It's important to remember that every time you're talking your client isn't, which depending on how much you talk gives clients time to tune out or get confused. Another aspect of "short and sweet" is being selective about what material you are repeating or summarizing back to them. What you reflect is what you will hear more of, so make sure that you chose material that will steer a conversation in the right direction. Sometimes in an effort to show good listening or empathy, you might reflect everything or anything you hear and sometimes this can take you down some paths you'd rather not be on.