Motivational Interviewing (MI) was first developed by William R. Miller during the 1980s and later modified by Stephen Rollnick. It is a collaborative, evidence-based method of counselling that facilitates finding one's motivation for change.
What it helps with
How it works
Early on
You talk about a change you are weighing, and your counsellor listens without judging. Together you look at what pulls you toward it and what holds you back.
As you go
Your counsellor asks open questions and reflects back what you say, so you can hear your own reasons and values. Then you may plan one small step that feels doable.
Over time
You look at what went well and what got in the way, without blame. You and your counsellor decide together how long to keep going.
Not sure? A free consultation can help you choose.
Where
About
Motivational Interviewing (MI) was first developed by William R. Miller during the 1980s and later modified by Stephen Rollnick. It is a collaborative, evidence-based method of counselling that facilitates finding one's motivation for change. In MI, instead of instructing what should be done, therapists facilitate an exploration of goals, values, and motives for change. At No Fear Counselling, MI builds clients' confidence and helps them cope with ambivalence to produce sustainable change.
The concept of Motivational Interviewing (MI) lies in the fact that the change will only be sustained if it is internally driven. Often, people would like to change something; however, they are ambivalent about it – they experience uncertainty and conflict.
In MI, instead of persuading or arguing with clients, therapists facilitate an exploration of their own motives.
Motivational interviewing involves asking open-ended questions, reflective listening, providing affirmations, and collaborating with the client. The therapist gives the client an opportunity for a safe space where they can freely express themselves.
In the therapy sessions, clients discuss their aspirations, values, as well as obstacles that they may encounter. Therapists help clients see their capabilities and motivate them to make a change in a positive manner.
Motivational interviewing (MI) could help clients:
Motivational Interviewing (MI) may be helpful for people experiencing:
It can also help individuals who feel uncertain about change and want to build healthier habits, improve motivation, and achieve their personal goals.
No Fear Counselling therapists employ the Motivational Interviewing approach to help clients understand their motivation for change in a warm and empathic environment.
Based on your needs, you can take advantage of the MI therapy combined with other types of evidence-based therapies that work for anxiety, depression, addictions, stress, and personal development. We provide both face-to-face and online services throughout Canada.
Change starts with one step. Motivational Interviewing (MI) can give you the strength to push through uncertainties and make your way towards Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley, Victoria, Kelowna, Penticton, or online counseling throughout Canada. No Fear Counseling provides you with that.
Book your consultation now and experience the power of Motivational Interviewing (MI) for yourself.
Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change (3rd ed.). New York: Guilford Press.
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
In a motivational interviewing (MI) session, you do most of the talking and your counsellor mostly listens and asks questions. They may ask open questions like 'What would be different if you made this change?' and reflect back what they hear. You choose what to talk about and set the pace, and nobody tells you what you must do.
No, you do not need to feel ready. MI is made for the stage where part of you wants a change and part of you does not. Your counsellor helps you look at both sides with curiosity, and you decide if, when and how to change.
Yes, MI can be used whether your goal is to stop, cut back or use more safely. Many people find it easier to talk openly about substance use when they do not feel judged, and your counsellor respects harm reduction goals and your right to choose. If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433), or call 911 if you are in danger.
MI focuses on finding your own reasons and readiness to change, while CBT focuses on skills for changing thoughts and habits. In CBT you may practise tools like writing down a thought and looking for other ways to see it. Some people start with MI and add CBT later, and your counsellor can help you choose what fits.
Yes, MI is a conversation, so it can be done by video as well as in person. You can meet in person or online from anywhere in BC. We offer a free 15-minute consultation by phone or video, and our intake team can suggest counsellors who fit what you need, your language and your budget.