Motivational Interviewing

Does change feel impossible? Whether it’s a New Year’s goal, or something as big as wanting to live a healthier lifestyle, change it hard; but it doesn’t have to be.

The reason most people fail when trying to change is because of their mindset. We often get in our own way. Whether it’s self-sabotaging thoughts or lack of motivation.

One of the most effective and least intrusive ways of achieving lasting change is through Motivational Interviewing.

What is Motivational Interviewing (MI)?

Motivational interviewing is a collaborative, goal-orientated type of communication that is designed to help you make a change in your life.

It is designed to help increase your motivation and commitment toward a specific goal. It works by evoking and exploring your personal reason for wanting to make a change. Motivational Interviewing creates an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, helping you to dig deep on the ‘WHY’ behind your goals, so that you can find motivation.

Motivational Interviewing is:

• A guiding style of communication, that sits between following (good listening) and directing (giving information and advice).
• Designed to empower you to change by drawing out your own reasons for, importance, and capacity for change.
• A respectful and curious way of being with you that facilitates the natural process of change and honors client autonomy.

How does Motivational Interviewing work?

Motivational Interviewing is strictly goal-driven and much different from other types of counseling. With MI, your therapist is attempting to influence you, rather than simply engaging in an exploration of thoughts and feelings. 

The four processes your Therapists at Thoughtwise will use include engaging, focusing, evoking, and planning. 

Motivational Interviewing follows the use of a 4-step process:

1. Express Empathy – Your therapist will use reflective listening techniques. They will listen to your concerns and problems while avoiding making judgments. Instead, they will focus on creating a space where you feel valued and accepted.
2. Develop Discrepancy – This step involves your Therapist helping you understand the difference between how you are today versus what you want to be like/achieve in the future.
3. Avoid Arguments – Even while placing gentle pressure on you, your Therapist will avoid arguing or pushing back when resistance is met.
4. Adjust to Resistance – If resistance does occur, your Therapist will tune into your perspective and change direction or listen more carefully.
5. Support Self-efficacy – One of the biggest challenges involved in making a change or reaching a goal is believing in your own capabilities to execute. Your Therapist will work to help you build the self-efficacy needed to succeed in a major lifestyle change or goal.

Can Motivational Interviewing help you?

At Thoughtwise, we understand how hard it is to make a lifestyle change or reach a big goal. By using the techniques in Motivational Interviewing we can help you to realize your capabilities, overcome any personal obstacles, and create the motivation and mindset that you need in order to succeed.

We look forward to talking with you about how Motivational Interviewing works, and how it can help you make lasting change.

Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment or your free 10-minute consultation to see if MI is right for you.