Motivational interviewing

Motivational Interviewing is a counseling method that helps people resolve ambivalent feelings and insecurities to find the internal motivation they need to change their behavior. It is a practical, empathetic, and short-term process that takes into consideration how difficult it is to make life changes.

Definition

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered, directive method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. It was developed by clinical psychologists William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick.

Principles

The fundamental principles of Motivational Interviewing include expressing empathy, developing discrepancy, rolling with resistance, and supporting self-efficacy.

Expressing Empathy

The therapist must create a supportive and accepting environment that promotes a sense of trust and safety.

Developing Discrepancy

The therapist helps the client to see the discrepancy between their current behavior and their future goals.

Rolling with Resistance

The therapist does not confront the client directly but rather rolls with the resistance and turns it into an opportunity for the client to examine their behavior.

Supporting Self-Efficacy

The therapist believes in the client's ability to change and supports their journey towards change.

Techniques

Motivational Interviewing uses a variety of techniques such as open-ended questions, affirmations, reflective listening, and summarizing the client's motivation and plan for change.

Applications

Motivational Interviewing has been applied in many areas including healthcare, mental health, addiction, and correctional settings.

Effectiveness

Research has shown that Motivational Interviewing can be effective in promoting behavior change and improving treatment outcomes.

See Also

• Counseling
• Behavior Change
• Addiction Treatment
• Healthcare
• Mental Health

References

• Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2012). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change. Guilford press.