Motivational Interviewing

What is Motivational Interviewing?

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a therapy approach that helps you find the motivation to make positive changes in your life. The therapist listens to you with empathy and asks open-ended questions to understand your thoughts and feelings. They don't judge or push you but work collaboratively to explore any uncertainties or mixed feelings you may have about change.

The main idea of motivational interviewing is that you already have the potential for change within you. The therapist helps you discover your own reasons for wanting to change and envision a better future.

Motivational interviewing is often used in areas like addiction treatment, improving physical health , and overall mental health improvement. The focus is on supporting you in finding the internal motivation to make the changes you desire. The therapist respects your autonomy and helps you gain confidence in your ability to make positive changes in your life.

By using motivational interviewing, therapy can help you explore your motivations, address any doubts or fears, and guide you towards reaching your goals. It's a collaborative process that empowers you to make meaningful progress on your own terms.

What does Motivational Interviewing Help With?

Motivational Interviewing can help with many issues including:

1. Addiction: MI supports individuals in exploring ambivalence about change, increasing motivation for recovery, and promoting engagement in treatment for addiction disorders.

2. Health behavior change: MI empowers individuals to make lasting changes in areas such as exercise, healthy eating, and smoking cessation by exploring motivations, overcoming barriers, and fostering sustainable habits.

3. Mental health concerns: MI can be effective in addressing depression, anxiety, and issues, helping individuals identify and pursue goals that support their mental well-being.

4. Behavior management: MI assists with anger management, impulse control, and decision-making by exploring motivations for change and developing strategies for self-regulation.

5. Chronic illness management: MI supports individuals with chronic conditions in adhering to treatment plans, making lifestyle modifications, and effectively managing their condition.

6. Goal setting, improved self-esteem, and personal growth: MI helps individuals clarify values, set meaningful goals, and take steps towards personal growth and self-improvement.

By seeking therapy that incorporates motivational interviewing, you can tap into your own motivations, overcome ambivalence, and make positive changes in the areas that matter most to you. Working with a skilled therapist experienced in MI can enhance your journey of transformation and self-discovery.

Does Motivational Interviewing Actually Work?

Motivational Interviewing (MI) has shown effectiveness as a therapy approach for individuals seeking positive change. Research has supported its effectiveness. MI recognizes that change is a personal journey and aims to strengthen your internal motivation to make desired changes. It has been widely used and researched in various fields, making it a valuable tool in therapy.

One of the strengths of motivational interviewing is its client-centered approach. The therapist works collaboratively with you, providing a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and ambivalence about change. By actively listening and asking open-ended questions, the therapist helps you uncover your own motivations and reasons for change.

Research has demonstrated that motivational interviewing can be effective in addressing a range of concerns, including addiction, health behavior change, and mental health issues. It supports you in resolving ambivalence and increasing commitment to change by highlighting the discrepancies between your current behaviors and your desired goals.

The effectiveness of motivational interviewing lies in its ability to empower you to take ownership of your choices and decisions. By building self-efficacy and fostering confidence in your ability to make positive changes, motivational interviewing facilitates long-lasting transformations.

How Long Does Motivational Interviewing Take?

Although motivational interviewing can be practiced independently, it is often and adjunct to other therapies such as CBT therapy, DBT therapy, ACT therapy, and others. As a result there is no set time frame for Motivational Interviewing. However, many people experience positive results after only a few sessions where Motivational Interviewing is incorporated.

At PRGRS Therapy we incorporate Motivational Interviewing into many of our sessions as it is an empowering treatment that is highly effective.

Do You Want to Give MI a Try?

Motivational interviewing is an extremely effective therapy for treating a variety of issues. It is one of our foundations therapies at PRGRS. If you are ready to give MI a try, contact us today to schedule a free 15 min phone consultation.