Motivational interviewing (MI) is a counseling approach used to help individuals change their problematic behaviors. It can be a useful tool for anyone struggling with substance use disorders, as well as other related mental health issues. Learning what to know about motivational interviewing can help you find the proper treatment and recover.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, Virtue Recovery Chandler can help. Our comprehensive approach to substance use disorder treatment includes individual counseling using evidence-based practices such as motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. Our dedicated team of professionals will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and helps you achieve overall wellness.
Contact us today at [Direct] to learn more about our programs and services.
What Is Motivational Interviewing?
What is motivational interviewing? Motivational interviewing is a client-centered counseling approach that aims to elicit and strengthen the individual’s own motivation to change. It allows people to explore their ambivalence around a particular behavior and reach a decision that aligns with their values and interests.
MI is a collaborative process that emphasizes empathy, respect, and affirmation while avoiding confrontation and resistance. The counselor aims to help the individual identify their goals for change and work together to achieve them.
The Five Key Concepts of Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing is a therapeutic approach that focuses on helping individuals resolve ambivalence about behavior change. It is a collaborative, person-centered approach emphasizing empathy, acceptance, and autonomy. Here are five key concepts to help you understand motivational interviewing:
Express Empathy
Empathy is the cornerstone of motivational interviewing. It involves understanding the individual’s perspective and listening to their story without judgment. The counselor must communicate their understanding of the person’s feelings and experiences, leading to a safer and more open conversation about their issues.
Develop Discrepancy
Another essential concept of MI is to develop discrepancy. Discrepancy occurs when an individual realizes that their current behavior or lifestyle is inconsistent with their values, goals, or priorities. The counselor uses this discrepancy to help stimulate motivation and spark change.
Avoid Argumentation
The counselor must avoid argumentation while engaging with the individual. Avoiding arguments and judgments is crucial in maintaining a safe environment that promotes trust. MI emphasizes respect and autonomy, encouraging the person to find solutions.
Roll with Resistance
Resistance is common in counseling and can be a barrier to change. However, resistance is seen as part of the natural motivational interviewing process, and the counselor must roll with it. By empathizing and understanding the person’s perspective, the counselor can develop a more collaborative relationship with the person and facilitate positive change.
Support Self-Efficacy
Self-efficacy is the belief that one can change behavior and achieve goals. The counselor must support the person to develop self-efficacy. The counselor provides resources, feedback, and guidance to help people achieve their goals.
How Can Motivational Interviewing Help in Substance Use Disorder Treatment?
Motivational interviewing is an evidence-based practice that has shown great success in substance use disorder treatment. Studies have shown that MI is effective in reducing substance use and negative behaviors associated with substance use disorders. MI can help individuals to:
- Explore their ambivalence around substance use and decide on their recovery
- Develop coping skills to reduce stress and negative emotions
- Improve their self-efficacy and motivation to change
- Increase their involvement in aftercare and relapse prevention programs
Motivational interviewing can lead to a more prosperous and sustainable recovery by encouraging the individual to engage in their treatment actively.
Contact Virtue Recovery Chandler to Start Motivational Interviewing
Understanding what to know about motivational interviewing is crucial if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder. MI is a client-centered approach that can help individuals develop their intrinsic motivation to change problematic behaviors. It can facilitate a more prosperous and sustainable recovery by emphasizing empathy, respect, and autonomy.
If you need help with substance use disorder treatment, contact Virtue Recovery Chandler today at [Direct] or online.
