Begin by validating your client's concerns, as resistance is often rooted in fear or uncertainty. Use open-ended questions to encourage dialogue, and actively listen to their responses. Frame change in a positive light as an opportunity for growth, emphasizing its potential benefits. Reassure your client that you are partners in this journey and that their insights are essential to the process. By prioritizing understanding, empathy, and gradual steps forward, you will help them appreciate the value of change and create a supportive environment for them to provide feedback.

In dating, you don’t rush into discussing life-altering plans. Instead, you build trust through light-hearted conversations, showing genuine interest, and making them feel comfortable. The more they trust you, the more likely they are to explore new possibilities with you. RAP works for me - Relate, Align, Progress. Most of us want P before RA. Focus on Relate and Align, progress is natural. CARE always works for all. Communicate with empathy. Ask open-ended questions. Respect their perspective. Engage with patience and consistency. Keep going with CARE. "People don’t resist change; they resist being changed." — Peter Senge Happy coaching.

To build rapport with a resistant client, I'd start by actively listening to their concerns and acknowledging their perspective to build trust. I'd focus on communicating the benefits of change with clear examples and success stories relevant to their goals. By inviting their feedback and incorporating their input into the process, I’d make them feel valued and more invested in the change, gradually easing their resistance.

To encourage a client resistant to change, sharing personal stories about the risks of not changing can be highly effective in building rapport and fostering empathy. Begin with a personal anecdote where resistance to change led to negative consequences, such as missing out on important opportunities or falling behind in a competitive environment. Throughout the conversation, maintain a supportive tone and practice active listening. Emphasize that while change can be daunting, the risks of stagnation are often greater. By weaving personal stories with an empathetic approach, you can help your client see the value of change and potentially become more open to it.

During the agreement phase, co-create a plan with your client around how challenging they want the sessions to be and how vital their goal is. Secure their permission upfront to “intrude” and challenge when necessary. This clarity establishes trust and rapport from the start. Then, if resistance arises during the session, acknowledge it openly: “what I am observing is some pushback, what’s happening?” Naming the resistance brings it into the light, encouraging honest dialogue. By integrating transparency and empathy early on, you reinforce your shared commitment to growth and maintain a safe, yet bold, space for transformative change.