Motivational interviewing (MI) is a therapeutic approach that encourages patients to build a healthier self-image. It also motivates patients to abandon destructive habits to improve their lives.
There are 4 parts to the MI process.
- Engaging – This is the foundation of the MI process. As the patient communicates, the practitioner listens closely to what they have to say. Practitioners should also vocalize what they’re feeling, paying special attention to highlight the patient’s strengths.
- Focusing – Next, the patient and the provider work together to find a direction for the conversation. The patient states what they want to work on, and the provider offers their professional advice. Together, they can develop a path toward healing.
- Evoking – During this stage of the process, the practitioner asks thought-provoking questions to get to the root of why the patient wants to change. Then, the patient can explain what has prevented them from getting help in the past, why they want to change, and the steps they can take to make progress toward their goals.
- Planning – Finally, the provider helps the patient make a plan. As with other parts of the motivational interviewing process, this step is collaborative. The patient and the provider work together, building a plan in a place that’s comfortable for them.
Motivational interviewing helps patients understand why they have struggled to treat their depression symptoms in the past and how they can take concrete steps toward future change.










