Motivational Interviewing (MI)

Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing is a technique that supports change for people struggling with ambivalence related to different aspects of their life or for people experiencing emotional distress. The goal is to evoke motivation, so you can find your own answers with guided support. Lindsey Capelli, LPC, NCC, SAC uses motivational interviewing on her clients who are experiencing life transitions, interpersonal conflicts, or behavioral issues.

What are the key components of motivational interviewing? Motivational interviewing came about from Carl Rogers’ person-centered approach, which aids in a commitment to change. Motivational interviewing can help people find the power to change, building on their own confidence and trust within themselves. There are three essential components of motivational interviewing:

Motivational interviewing starts with a conversation about change either through a counseling, consultation, or therapy session

Motivational interviewing is collaborative and honors the partnership between therapist and client

Motivational interviewing is evocative, seeking to call forth the person’s own motivation and commitment

What is the main goal of motivational interviewing?
The main goal of motivational interviewing is to encourage your autonomy in decision making. Your therapist acts as your guide by listening to your concerns, boosting your confidence, and collaborating with you on a plan for change. Motivational interviewing rests on the assumption that most people are ambivalent or resistant to change.

Motivational interviewing works by the client having autonomy in making their own decisions and having a sense of being supported by their therapist. Your therapist will encourage you to become an active participant in the change process by evoking your intrinsic motivations for change.

What is motivational interviewing used to treat?
Motivational interviewing is often used to help people with substance abuse and can also help people struggling with anger management. Motivational interviewing typically works best for people who are ambivalent about change, not people who are already motivated to change their behavior or those who have no desire to change. Other common conditions motivational interviewing can help with include anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder.

If you are ready for a change and want to find out more about motivational interviewing, call Living Well Counseling Center in Tinton Falls, New Jersey today. You can also send us a message on the contact page of our website..

Resources

Understanding Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing is a well-known, scientifically tested method of counselling clients developed by Miller and Rollnick and viewed as a useful intervention strategy in the treatment of lifestyle problems and disease.

MotivationalInterveiwing.org

Motivational interviewing improves depression outcome in primary care.

Motivational interviewing: A systematic review and meta-analysis
(Rubak, S., Sandbaek, A., & Christensen, B)