Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based, collaborative style of conversation that helps you explore mixed feelings about change and strengthen your own motivation to move forward.
What is Motivational Interviewing?
MI is a respectful, person-centred approach designed to resolve ambivalence — the very normal experience of wanting to change and not wanting to, all at once. It’s built on the idea that lasting motivation is drawn out from you, not imposed on you.
How does Motivational Interviewing work?
Rather than persuading or pressuring, MI uses curious questions and reflective listening to help you voice your own reasons and values for change. As you hear yourself articulate what matters, motivation tends to grow naturally and resistance fades.
What does MI help with?
MI is helpful whenever you feel stuck between staying the same and moving forward — including ambivalence about starting exposure work, changing habits, or committing to therapy itself. It often sets the stage for the more active parts of treatment.
What it feels like in session
Conversations feel collaborative and unhurried, never judgmental or pushy. You set the direction; my role is to help you hear your own wisdom clearly.
What MI can help with
- Feeling stuck or "two minds" about change
- Ambivalence about starting exposure work
- Building motivation that lasts
- Getting unstuck at the start of therapy
Frequently asked questions
Is Motivational Interviewing a full therapy on its own?
MI is often used alongside other approaches rather than as a standalone treatment. It’s especially useful early on, helping you work through ambivalence so the rest of therapy can take hold.
Will I be pressured to change in MI?
No. The entire spirit of Motivational Interviewing is collaborative and non-confrontational. The goal is to help you connect with your own reasons for change, not to push an agenda.
Is Motivational Interviewing evidence-based?
Yes. MI has a substantial research base across many areas of behaviour change and is widely used to support engagement in treatment.
Selected clinical references
This approach is informed by established clinical research and treatment guidelines, including:
- Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change (3rd ed.).
- Lundahl, B., et al. (2013). Motivational interviewing in medical care settings: A systematic review and meta-analysis.