What does motivational interviewing aim to explore?

Motivational interviewing is a client-centered counseling style that is particularly effective in addressing ambivalence about behavior change, especially in the context of addiction treatment. It focuses on understanding and enhancing an individual's intrinsic motivation to change by exploring their personal values, goals, and the reasons they may feel conflicted about altering their substance use behavior. This approach aims to create a supportive environment where clients can openly discuss their feelings about the changes they need to make, explore their ambivalence, and ultimately strengthen their commitment to change.

The emphasis on understanding a client’s motivation, alongside their resistance to change, is crucial to fostering a productive dialogue that can lead to positive outcomes in their treatment process. By engaging clients in this way, practitioners using motivational interviewing can help them articulate their own reasons for change, which is pivotal for initiating the recovery process.