Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing or MI is a client-centered therapeutic approach that can help you to assess your willingness and commitment to change behaviors. The core of this approach is to support you in being honest with yourself about what it takes to change, and shift the focus to your power to do so, rather than relying on the mercy of your circumstances to make you more comfortable.

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Sometimes people come into therapy feeling very ready to engage in the process, but typically most people have some level of ambivalence about what it all entails. Change can be scary. This is where psychoeducation comes into play. Your therapist will provide a frame for your treatment, so that you understand why dysfunction is happening and are clear about how collaboration with them will improve it.

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Because self-efficacy is the core of MI, your therapist will focus on your strengths, help you recognize and draw from past successes, and empower you to take ownership for the direction of your life. This is done with the rapport you build with them, exploration of your values, encouragement, validation, and empathy.