Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered therapeutic approach that helps individuals overcome addiction by strengthening their motivation to change. Instead of using confrontation or pressure, MI encourages open dialogue where clients explore their thoughts, feelings, and ambivalence about substance use. MI works by: Building trust between the therapist and client through empathy and active listening. …
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered therapeutic approach that helps individuals overcome addiction by strengthening their motivation to change. Instead of using confrontation or pressure, MI encourages open dialogue where clients explore their thoughts, feelings, and ambivalence about substance use.
MI works by:
- Building trust between the therapist and client through empathy and active listening.
- Exploring ambivalence, allowing individuals to express both their reasons for using and their desire to stop.
- Enhancing self-efficacy, helping people believe in their ability to change.
- Encouraging self-motivated goals instead of externally imposed solutions.
This method empowers individuals to take ownership of their recovery journey. It’s widely used in addiction treatment programs and often serves as a foundation before starting more intensive therapies.
In addiction treatment, MI is effective because it meets people where they are — whether they’re just considering quitting or are already in recovery. It’s flexible, respectful, and supported by evidence-based research for alcohol, drug, and behavioral addictions.