Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered counseling style that helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about behavioral changes (e.g., substance use, diet/exercise habits). It emphasizes empathy, collaboration, and personal choice.

Key Points:

• Core Principles:
  1. Express Empathy: Validating the client’s experiences and feelings.
  2. Develop Discrepancy: Helping clients see the gap between current behaviors and their goals/values.
  3. Roll with Resistance: Avoiding direct confrontation; working through reluctance gently.
  4. Support Self-Efficacy: Fostering the client’s belief in their ability to change.
• Applications: Substance abuse treatment, health behavior change (diabetes management, smoking cessation), treatment adherence, and mental health interventions.
• Outcome: Encourages intrinsic motivation, leading to longer-lasting behavioral changes than external pressure.