“MI is a collaborative, goal-oriented style of communication with particular attention to the language of change. It is designed to strengthen personal motivation for and commitment to a specific goal by eliciting and exploring the person’s own reasons for change within an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion.” (Miller & Rollnick, 2013, p. 29)

The most current version of MI is described in detail in Miller and Rollnick (2013) Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change (3rd edition). Key qualities include:

• MI is a guiding style of communication, that sits between following (good listening) and directing (giving information and advice).
• MI is designed to empower people to change by drawing out their own meaning, importance and capacity for change.
• MI is based on a respectful and curious way of being with people that facilitates the natural process of change and honors client autonomy.

I have been a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) since 2025.

I provide Motivational Interviewing trainings to medical and behavioral health providers, clergy, teachers, administrators, social workers, law enforcement, community organizations, colleges and universities, managed care organizations, students, peer support specialists, and more. Learn about MI training.

I also use Motivational Interviewing every day in my own work — as a therapist and as an international coach.