Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing seeks to help clients think differently about their behavior and ultimately to consider what might be gained through change. It is focused and goal-directed.

During MI, the therapist asks open-ended questions, provides affirmations, listens reflectively, and periodically provides a summary of what the client has said. Motivational interviewing is non-judgmental, non-confrontational and non-adversarial. MI attempts to increase the client's awareness of the potential problems caused, consequences experienced and risks faced as a result of the behavior in question. The therapist may also help clients envision a better future and become motivated to achieve it.