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Motivational Interviewing

An evidence-based intervention designed to strengthen motivation for change in high-risk clients.

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What is Motivational Interviewing?

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered intervention designed to:
  • Enhance intrinsic motivation
  • Engage clients in the change process
  • Teach staff how to work with clients who are unwilling or unable to change
Motivational Interviewing is rated “Well-supported” (the highest rating) by The Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse and is eligible for funding through the Family First Prevention Services Act.
We offer customized Motivational Interviewing training and coaching to support the intervention across different professional groups such as child welfare staff, probation, parole and correctional officers, caseworkers, and counselors. 
Interested? Fill out the form and we'll connect you to one of our training organizations!

Fundamental Processes of Motivational Interviewing

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Engaging

The foundation of MI. Engaging promotes productive relationships by listening carefully to understand and reflect the person's experience and perspective while affirming strengths and supporting autonomy.

Focusing

During this process, the clinician and client focus on a shared purpose that gives the practitioner permission to move into an actionable conversation about change.

Evoking

The evoking process outlines the "why" for change by drawing out the client’s intrinsic motivation and their own ideas for change. 

Planning

Planning focuses on the "how" of change. The practitioner works with the client to create a unique and actionable change plan that the client can commit to. 

Features

Motivational Interviewing is:

Comprehensive

Addresses a variety of challenging problems such as substance use, institutional conduct, & treatment compliance

Strengths-focused

Boosts staff confidence to help with challenging clients

Engaging

Enhances clients' engagement with mandatory services and facilitates program completion

Customizable

Can be adapted for a variety of settings, both formal and informal