What does "motivational interviewing" aim to achieve?

Motivational interviewing is a client-centered counseling approach that aims to enhance an individual's motivation to change by exploring and resolving their ambivalence about behavior change. This technique helps clients articulate their reasons for change and gain confidence in their ability to make that change. By focusing on the client's perspective and fostering a supportive environment, motivational interviewing encourages self-discovery and personal commitment to the changes they wish to make, particularly in the context of addiction and behavioral health.

This approach is notably different from providing interventions for acute medical conditions, enforcing strict rules, or diagnosing mental health conditions, as it primarily centers on the interplay between motivation, ambivalence, and the client's readiness to change. Through this process, clients are more likely to engage in discussions that lead to constructive decisions regarding their substance use or any other health-related behaviors.