Motivational interviewing is defined as “a collaborative, goal-oriented style of communication with particular attention to the language of change. It is designed to strengthen personal motivation for and commitment to a specific goal by eliciting and exploring the person’s own reasons for change within an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion.” (Miller & Rollnick, 2013, pg. 29)
The first paper on motivational interviewing was published in 1983 by Dr. W.R Miller and later expanded on with Dr. S. Rollnick. By combining relational and technical skills and strategies, an MI approach supports helping professionals initiate and guide change conversations engagingly and effectively – shifting from directing to guiding. Communication is purposeful and focused, helping professionals draw out reasons to consider changing from the individual versus telling them what they should do. MI is particularly effective in supporting engagement, reducing discord and building motivation for change.
To learn more about motivational interviewing and explore the numerous resources and publications, go to the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) website https://motivationalinterviewing.org/