Motivational Interviewing (MI)
A collaborative approach to exploring ambivalence and supporting meaningful change.
What is Motivational Interviewing (MI)?
Motivational Interviewing, or MI, is a collaborative, client-centered approach used to explore ambivalence and strengthen a person's own motivation for change. It was developed originally in the context of substance use treatment and has since been applied across a range of health and behavioral concerns. MI is not about persuading, lecturing, or convincing someone to change. It is about creating a space to explore what change might mean, what makes it difficult, and what matters to the person considering it.
What does ambivalence about change mean?
Ambivalence means holding two things at once: wanting change and having reasons to stay the same. This is a normal part of the change process, not a sign of weakness or lack of motivation. Someone might want to establish boundaries while also fearing conflict. They might recognize that a coping behavior is causing problems while also understanding that it serves a purpose. They might know something needs to change while not feeling ready. MI takes ambivalence seriously rather than treating it as an obstacle to push through.
How does Motivational Interviewing work?
MI involves exploring a person's own values, reasons for change, reasons change feels difficult, concerns about their current situation, readiness, and confidence. The therapist listens carefully, reflects what they hear, and helps the person articulate their own perspective on change rather than imposing a direction. The motivation for change comes from the person, not from outside pressure.
Will a therapist using Motivational Interviewing tell me what to do?
No. MI is explicitly not about telling someone what to do, arguing for change, or applying pressure. A therapist using MI is interested in understanding your perspective, including the parts of you that are uncertain or resistant to change. The approach respects that you are the expert on your own life and that lasting change is more likely when it comes from your own values and goals rather than external pressure.
When can Motivational Interviewing be helpful?
MI may be useful in situations involving ambivalence about change, including:
- Health behaviors and lifestyle changes
- Substance use concerns
- Coping patterns that are both helpful and problematic
- Avoidance
- Treatment engagement
- Other situations where someone is uncertain about change or feels pulled in different directions
MI is not the right fit for every situation. Whether it is appropriate depends on your specific concerns and what you are working on.
How do I use Motivational Interviewing in therapy?
I am a clinical social worker and psychotherapist providing online psychotherapy to adults in New York and Florida through Balanced Mind Therapy Solutions. I may incorporate MI into a broader treatment approach when it is a good fit for a client's concerns and goals. It is not a stand-alone protocol I apply to every client. When ambivalence about change is a significant part of what someone is navigating, MI can be a useful way to explore that thoughtfully rather than pushing past it.
Have Questions?
If you are curious about whether Motivational Interviewing or another approach may be a good fit for your concerns, I offer a free 15-minute consultation. You can also learn more about what to expect when getting started.