Motivational interviewing (MI)
The developers of motivational interviewing (MI), Professor William R Miller and Professor Stephen Rollnick, define it as “a client-centred, semi-directive method of engaging intrinsic motivation to change behaviour by developing discrepancy and exploring and resolving ambivalence”.
MI is not a theory, so much as an interview technique that evolved out of Carl Rogers’ client-centred counselling approach. However, MI takes a more directive approach.
MI focuses on the motivational processes within the individual that facilitate change. Using MI techniques, the interviewer elicits and selectively reinforces change talk, and responds to resistance in a way that influences the client to appreciate the value of change.
MI is:
- non-judgemental
- non-confrontational
- non-adversarial.
The approach attempts to enable the client so that they develop an awareness of the potential problems caused, consequences experienced and risks faced as a result of behaviours. The role of the interviewer is to help clients see a better future and become motivated to achieve it.
- Motivational interviewing uses a client-centred approach
MI is based on four general principles:
- Expressing empathy (understanding the client's world)
- Developing discrepancy (drawing out the client's motivation)
- Roll resistance (working with resistance from the client without pushing against it, or trying to beat it)
- Supporting self-efficacy (supporting the client's belief that they can achieve their goals).
The main goals of MI are to:
- establish rapport
- elicit change talk
- establish commitment language from the client.
MI is an effective technique when used in a career guidance environment. It always maintains the best interests of the client and, used effectively, can enable the client to make sense of their resistance to change, and help them to appreciate the benefits and value of change in an environment that is supportive and non-judgemental.
Sources
- Miller, W R, and Rollnick, S, 'Motivational Interviewing: Preparing People to Change', New York: Guilford Press, 2002.
- Motivational Interviewing, (www.motivationalinterview.org).
