What is the focus of Motivational Interviewing (MI)?

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is specifically designed to address and resolve ambivalence within clients. At its core, MI recognizes that many individuals may feel conflicted about making changes in their behavior or lifestyle, and it provides a compassionate and supportive framework to help them articulate and work through these conflicting feelings.

The focus on exploring ambivalence allows clients to voice their concerns, fears, and desires, ultimately leading to greater self-awareness and autonomy in the decision-making process regarding behavioral change. Through this exploration, clients can weigh the pros and cons of their current behaviors against their aspirations, fostering intrinsic motivation for change.

While building a therapeutic environment, developing structured processes for change, and setting clinical goals for treatment are relevant components of the overall therapeutic process, they do not represent the unique focus of MI. The primary aim of MI is to facilitate a dialogue that empowers clients to overcome their hesitation and commit to positive changes in their lives.