Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative, person-centered counseling approach designed to strengthen motivation for change. Developed by William Miller and Stephen Rollnick, MI is particularly effective for addiction treatment.
MI is defined by its spirit more than its techniques:
| Closed | Open | |--------|------| | "Do you want to quit?" | "What concerns do you have about your use?" | | "Have you tried before?" | "Tell me about your previous experiences with change." | | "Is your family supportive?" | "How does your family feel about your situation?" |
Recognize strengths, efforts, and values:
Tip: Affirm the person, not just the behavior.
Mirror back what you hear to show understanding:
Simple Reflection: Repeat or rephrase
Patient: "I know I should stop, but it's so hard." Provider: "It's been really difficult."
Complex Reflection: Add meaning or feeling
Patient: "I know I should stop, but it's so hard." Provider: "Part of you wants to stop, and part of you isn't ready to let go of what it gives you."
Collect what's been said:
Desire: "I want to..." Ability: "I could..." Reasons: "I would feel better if..." Need: "I have to..." Commitment: "I will..." Activation: "I'm ready to..." Taking Steps: "I already started..."
Your goal: Elicit and strengthen change talk.
Arguments for the status quo:
Your response: Don't argue. Reflect, then gently redirect.
Healthcare providers naturally want to fix problems. But arguing FOR change often pushes patients AWAY from change.
The Righting Reflex in Action:
Patient: "I don't think I'm ready to quit." Provider: "But think about your health! Your family!" Patient: "It's not affecting them that much..."
MI Approach:
Patient: "I don't think I'm ready to quit." Provider: "You're not sure this is the right time. Tell me more about that." Patient: "Well, I am worried about my job..."
Resistance is information, not opposition.
Patient: "My wife made me come. I don't think I have a problem."
Poor Response: "Your drinking is clearly affecting your marriage. Let's talk about treatment options."
MI Response: "Your wife is concerned, and you see things differently. Help me understand your perspective on your drinking."
Ready to practice your MI skills? Try having a conversation with Dr. Arjun where you role-play as a patient. Notice how the AI:
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Use one of the external tools below to explore "Motivational Interviewing". Check clinical claims against approved sources.
External links
Use one of the external tools below to explore "Motivational Interviewing". Check clinical claims against approved sources.