Motivational Interviewing Therapy

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a counseling approach that helps you overcome doubts and find the motivation to make positive changes. Instead of forcing change, it guides you to explore your own reasons for wanting a better future.

Being a collaborative approach, your therapist can’t impose changes or habits, but encourage you to find ways to reach your goals. You feel safe, understood, and supported.

It was introduced by psychologist William R Miller in 1983 and later refined with psychologist Stephen Rollnick, drawing inspiration from Carl Rogers’ client-centered approach. As Rollnick explains, “The more you try to insert information and advice into others, the more they tend to back off and resist.”

How Does Motivational Interviewing Therapy Work?

It operates on four fundamental principles – Expressing Empathy, Developing Discrepancy, Rolling with Resistance, and Supporting Self-efficacy.

Expressing empathy is the foundation, where therapists listen actively and reflectively to create a non-judgmental space. Developing discrepancy highlights the gap between a client’s current behaviours and their future goals. MI can help you with breaking unhealthy eating habits, getting over social anxiety, or adding values to your professional skills.

In rolling with resistance, your therapist avoids direct confrontation and instead works with client hesitations. As a client, you feel less offensive and more open to sharing about your struggles and new perspectives. Finally, supporting self-efficacy empowers clients by reinforcing their confidence in making positive changes.

During the session, your therapist listens, asks open-ended questions, explores your goals, and helps you find your motivation for change. You’ll find yourself relaxed but motivated, confident with a clearer sense of direction and practical steps toward your goals.

Most people benefit from 4-6 sessions but Motivational Interviewing Therapy can be used as a long-term tool for creating a lasting change.