Motivational Interviewing is person-centered counseling
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a person-centered counseling method for addressing the common problem of ambivalence about change. It is a collaborative conversation to strengthen a person’s own motivation for and commitment to change. This initiative focuses on working with adolescents and caregivers of children and youth in CMHSP services which gives us Motivational Interviewing for Adolescents.
“MI is a collaborative, goal-oriented style of communication with particular attention to the language of change. It is designed to strengthen personal motivation for and commitment to a specific goal by eliciting and exploring the person’s own reasons for change within an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion.” (Miller & Rollnick, 2013, p. 29).
MI requires the clinician to engage with the client as an equal partner and refrain from unsolicited advice, confronting, instructing, directing, or warning.
It is not a way to “get people to change” or a set of techniques to impose on the conversation. MI takes time, practice, and requires self-awareness and discipline from the clinician. (Miller & Rollnick, 2009)
Following & Directing
MI is a guiding style of communication that sits between following (good listening) and directing (giving information and advice).
Be Respectful & Curious
MI is based on a respectful and curious way of being with people that facilitates the natural process of change and honors client autonomy.
Empower Change
MI is designed to empower people to change by drawing out their own meaning, importance, and capacity for change.