Exploring the Use of Motivational Interviewing in Therapy to Inspire Change

29 July 2025

Change is hard. Whether it’s quitting smoking, finally setting boundaries with a toxic friend, or kicking procrastination to the curb—most of us know what it’s like to want change, but not know how to make it stick. That’s where Motivational Interviewing (MI) comes in. It's not a magic solution, but it’s pretty close when it comes to helping people move from “I kinda want to...” to “I’m ready to take action!”

In this article, we’re diving deep into how motivational interviewing is used in therapy to spark real, lasting change. And don’t worry—we’re keeping things simple, relatable, and (hopefully) a little bit fun! Ready to roll?

What Is Motivational Interviewing, Anyway?

Think of motivational interviewing as a friendly GPS for change. It's a client-centered method that helps people figure out their own reasons for wanting to change. Instead of the therapist telling you what to do, they help you pull the answer from within yourself.

MI is all about having a conversation—not a lecture. It was designed in the 1980s by psychologists William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick, and it's been used in therapy rooms, hospitals, schools, and even correctional facilities ever since.

So how does it really work? Let’s break it down.

The Four Core Principles of Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing isn't about twisting someone’s arm—it’s about guiding them down their own path using empathy and understanding. At its heart, MI rests on four key principles:

1. Express Empathy

Therapists using MI don’t judge. They listen. They create a safe and accepting space where you can say, “Yeah, I know I should quit vaping, but it helps with stress,” without getting a lecture in return. That empathy builds trust and opens the door for honest dialogue.

2. Develop Discrepancy

Here’s where the magic starts. A motivational interviewing therapist gently helps you see the gap between where you are now and where you want to be. It’s kind of like holding up a mirror—sometimes you don’t realize how much you want something until you hear yourself say it out loud.

3. Roll with Resistance

Instead of pushing back when someone isn’t ready to change, the therapist goes with the flow. Resistance isn’t seen as stubbornness—it’s seen as a signal that maybe the client isn’t quite ready... and that’s okay. The goal is to avoid power struggles and keep the conversation moving gently forward.

4. Support Self-Efficacy

This one’s huge. MI is all about boosting the client’s belief that they can change. Because let’s face it: if you don’t believe you can run that marathon, apply for that job, or walk away from that unhelpful habit—you probably won’t even try.

Why Motivational Interviewing Works

Have you ever had someone try to tell you what to do... and immediately felt like doing the exact opposite? You're not alone. That’s human nature. We all crave autonomy. And that’s exactly why MI works so well—it respects the client’s freedom to choose.

Psychologically speaking, MI taps into intrinsic motivation (the kind that comes from inside you). When people arrive at their own reasons for changing, they’re more likely to follow through.

It also removes that "I'm being judged" vibe that can sometimes sneak into therapy sessions. MI says, “I get why this is hard for you,” and that validation makes a world of difference.

MI in Action: A Therapy Room Snapshot

Let’s paint a picture. Imagine a client named Sarah. She’s been smoking since college and wants to quit… kind of. Her doctor said it’s time, but she’s not totally convinced.

Here’s how a motivational interviewing session might go:

> Therapist: “It sounds like part of you wants to quit smoking, but there’s also a part that finds comfort in it. That must feel pretty conflicting.”

> Sarah: “Yeah, exactly. I know it’s bad for me, especially with my asthma. But it’s my stress relief.”

> Therapist: “So on one hand, you’re concerned about your health, and on the other, it helps you cope. What do you imagine life would be like if you didn’t smoke anymore?”

> Sarah: “I think I’d feel proud of myself. And maybe I wouldn’t wheeze walking up the stairs.”

> Therapist: “That sounds like something you’d really value. What would make change feel more possible for you right now?”

See what’s happening here? No guilt. No pressure. Just a gentle conversation that helps Sarah find her why.

Techniques Therapists Use in MI

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Therapists don’t just wing it—they use specific techniques during motivational interviewing.

OARS: The Building Blocks of MI

OARS stands for:

- Open-ended questions
These invite clients to think deeply. Instead of asking, “Do you want to quit drinking?” they might ask, “What concerns do you have about your drinking?”

- Affirmations
Therapists highlight strengths: “It takes guts to talk openly about this.”

- Reflections
They mirror what the client says to show understanding. “So you’re feeling stuck between wanting to change and fearing the stress it might bring.”

- Summaries
They wrap up key points to show they’re listening and to reinforce the client’s motivation: “So far, you've shared that your health and family are big reasons you'd consider changing.”

Change Talk

Change talk is a sign your client is leaning toward action. Any time someone starts expressing desire, ability, reasons, or need to change—they’re inching forward. A good therapist will notice these moments and gently reinforce them.

Where Is Motivational Interviewing Used?

MI isn’t just for addiction therapy (though it does amazing work there). It’s used in a bunch of different settings:

- Substance Use Treatment
MI helps people struggling with addiction weigh the pros and cons of using vs. recovery.

- Health and Wellness Coaching
From managing diabetes to adopting a new workout routine, MI keeps the focus on personal motivation.

- Career Counseling
Stuck in a dead-end job or afraid to chase your dream? MI can help clarify those values.

- Mental Health Therapy
Depression, anxiety, self-sabotaging behaviors—all can benefit from motivational interviewing.

- Corrections and Probation
MI helps people in the justice system make positive life choices by tapping into their inner values.

Common Misconceptions About Motivational Interviewing

Let’s clear up a few things:

“It’s just being nice to people.”

Not exactly. While empathy is a big part of MI, it’s a strategic approach—there’s structure, intention, and skill behind it.

“It only works if the client wants to change.”

Actually, MI is perfect for people who are ambivalent or unsure. It’s designed to help them find their motivation—not punish them for not having it yet.

“Therapists using MI don’t guide their clients.”

False! MI is directive in a subtle way. Therapists guide the conversation toward change, but they do it without pressure or control.

Benefits of Motivational Interviewing in Therapy

Alright, let’s talk perks—because MI brings a whole truckload of benefits to the therapy table:

- Builds trust quickly
Clients feel heard, not judged.

- Increases motivation
It’s way easier to change when you believe it’s your choice.

- Encourages long-term success
Changes rooted in your own values are more likely to stick.

- Reduces resistance
No one likes being told what to do. MI respects that.

- Can be combined with other therapies
MI plays well with CBT, DBT, and other treatment approaches.

How Can You Tell If Your Therapist Uses MI?

Not all therapists use motivational interviewing—but many incorporate elements of it. Here’s how you’ll know:

- They listen more than they talk.
- They ask thoughtful, open-ended questions.
- They reflect your words back to you to help you gain clarity.
- They never push or shame you into changing.
- They help you explore your own reasons for doing something.

Sound familiar? Congrats—you’ve probably experienced MI in action!

Can You Use MI on Yourself?

Great question! While MI is typically therapist-led, some of its principles absolutely translate into self-reflection. Try journaling about your mixed feelings toward a behavior you’d like to change. Ask yourself:

- What are the benefits of staying the same?
- What are the drawbacks?
- What would life look like if I made this change?
- What values are driving my desire to change?

You might be surprised what you uncover.

Final Thoughts: Why MI Is a Game Changer

Motivational Interviewing meets people where they are. It’s not about forcing someone to change—it’s about helping them want to. And isn’t that what therapy (and life) is really all about?

If you’ve ever struggled with motivation or felt stuck in place, MI could be the gentle nudge you’ve been looking for. And if you’re a therapist—or training to be one—it’s a tool worth mastering. After all, change is less about being pushed and more about discovering the will to move forward, one step at a time.