What is Motivational Interviewing?
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a collaborative way of having conversations about change. It helps people explore their own reasons for changing while respecting their autonomy and recognizing that ambivalence is a normal part of the process. Rather than telling people what they should do or trying to convince them to change, MI helps create a conversation where people can find their own motivation and decide what steps make sense for them. At its heart, MI is about listening with curiosity, building partnership, and helping people move toward what matters to them.
People are the experts on their own lives.
We may have knowledge, information, or advice that could help, but we don't know what it is like to live someone else's life. MI starts with curiosity and respect, helping people identify what will work for them rather than assuming we know what they need.
People are more likely to change when the reasons come from within.
Motivational Interviewing helps people explore their own reasons for making a change rather than being told what they should do. Instead of trying to convince someone to change, we help them discover what matters to them and why change might be important.
Change is rarely a straight line.
People can want to make a change and still have good reasons for staying where they are. MI recognizes that ambivalence is normal and creates space for people to explore both sides without judgment. The goal isn't to push someone toward change, but to help them work through what is getting in the way.
The conversation matters.
How we talk with people can influence what happens next. MI is a way of communicating that creates space for people to talk openly about their hopes, concerns, ambivalence, and reasons for change.
Ready to have more meaningful conversations?
If you're looking for a new and more effective way to talk with the people you serve, Motivational Interviewing might be right for you. Let's talk and see how we can work together.