Motivational Interviewing (MI)

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a type of counselling that focuses on helping individuals to find the motivation to make positive changes in their behaviour and lifestyle. MI is based on the principles of client-centred counselling developed by American psychologist Carl Rogers and is a non-confrontational and non-judgemental approach.

This approach is built on providing empathy, respect, support, autonomy, empowerment, and collaboration. Empathy is an important part of motivational interviewing; it involves developing a genuine understanding of the individual’s experience and feelings. Respect is also key, as it involves demonstrating understanding, acceptance, and non-judgment. Additionally, support is an essential element, as it involves building a trusting, collaborative, and open relationship. Autonomy is important, as it involves facilitating the individual’s own decisions and choices. Empowerment is also essential, as it encourages the individual to take ownership of their own change process. Finally, collaboration is essential, as it involves working in partnership with the individual to identify their own solutions.

By using MI techniques, practitioners can help people to find the motivation to make lasting changes and to sustain those changes over time. This makes it an effective tool for addressing issues such as substance abuse, obesity, smoking, and other health-related issues.

Through the use of these principles, motivational interviewing seeks to support individuals to make positive lifestyle changes. It can help to identify the underlying motivations for change, as well as providing the individual with the necessary support and guidance to make and sustain these changes. This approach can be used in a variety of settings, including education and social care.