Motivational interviewing is a counseling approach designed to help people find the motivation to make a positive behavior change. It is an evidence-based approach to behavior change that focuses on exploring and resolving ambivalence and centers on motivational processes within the individual that facilitate change. The approach is based on four guiding principles: expressing empathy, developing discrepancy, rolling with resistance, and supporting self-efficacy.
Motivational interviewing is a collaborative process that emphasizes a therapeutic relationship in which the autonomy of the patient is respected and the patients intrinsic resources for change are elicited by the therapist. Within motivational interviewing, the therapist is viewed as a facilitator rather than an expert, who adopts a non-confrontational approach to guide the patient toward change.
Motivational interviewing is an effective counseling method that enhances motivation through the resolution of ambivalence. It is used in a variety of settings, including general practice, addiction medicine, and mental health. The practice of motivational interviewing involves the skillful use of certain techniques for bringing to life the "MI spirit," demonstrating the MI principles, and guiding the process toward eliciting client change talk and commitment for change.
Overall, motivational interviewing is a person-centered counseling method for addressing the common problem of ambivalence about change. It is designed to strengthen an individuals motivation for and movement toward a specific goal by eliciting and exploring the persons own arguments for change.
