Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a way of encouraging individuals struggling with substance abuse to make positive changes in their lives. Family and friends of people struggling from addiction can use this method of talking to their loved ones about making changes, seeking treatment, and staying on track for recovery. MI is a way of discussing an issue that draws out an individual’s own reasons for changing, instead of relying on another person’s opinions or ideas. MI recognizes that ambivalence (having mixed feelings, or not being sure) about making a change is a common part of the recovery process. Discussing this ambivalence can help to bring out an individual’s personal reasons for making a change. MI focuses on finding and strengthening a person’s own motivation to change, in accordance with their own values, beliefs, concerns, and goals (Providers Clinical Support System, 2017).
