What is Motivational Interviewing?
Motivational interviewing or “MI” is an evidence-based communication style widely used by counselors, nurses, and other health professionals to talk about making healthy changes or committing to treatment. MI is based on the premise that the best way to influence another person’s behavior is by respecting their autonomy and creating space for them to explore their own ambivalence and (hopefully) motivation for change. Research shows that when professionals use MI, patients are more likely to make healthy changes like reducing smoking and drinking.
In our roles as parents, teachers, clinicians, coaches, or managers, we learn that we have limited control over other people’s behaviors. Even against the backdrop of impending consequences or rewards, people might just go their own way. Baffling! But when we leverage trust and relationship, we are more likely to have meaningful conversations and influence over about important decisions. The stronger your relationships, the more people will care about your opinions and follow your advice.
Motivational interviewing offers a toolbox of skills for escaping destructive power struggles and building partnership. Recognizing the relevance of MI for both families and professional settings, I created an accessible curriculum so that anyone can learn motivational interviewing skills and use them to have successful conversations about virtually anything.