As humans, we are creatures of habit – a trait that can work against us when the habits we develop are not in our best interest. Changing your behavior can be one of the most challenging things to do, especially if you can’t seem to find the internal desire to do so. That’s what makes a counseling method called motivational interviewing so beneficial. 

What Is Motivational Interviewing?

As its name suggests, motivational interviewing is an approach that helps people find the motivation they need to make specific changes in their lives. Anyone who has been reluctant to shift their behavioral patterns or ways of thinking can benefit from this approach, which encourages people to reach within themselves and find the drive to do better. 

Who Can Benefit From Motivational Interviewing?

Therapists might recommend motivational interviewing for people managing chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes and substance use disorders. These people often need a gentle push to develop healthier habits that improve their chances of living longer and more fulfilling lives. Motivational interviewing is also beneficial for anyone who is upset about the idea of committing to change. 

Motivational interviewing is an empathetic approach that acknowledges how difficult it can be to create healthy, positive habits. Typically, it is a shorter-term approach that might only take one or two sessions to achieve the desired outcomes, though motivational interviewing can also be effective when combined with other, long-term therapies such as CBT or group counseling. 

What Happens During Motivational Interviewing?

A counselor who specializes in motivational interviewing takes a person-centered approach. Don’t let the word “interview” stress you out. Instead, you can think of motivational interviewing as more of a casual conversation about what you want to change, why you want to change it and the approach you’ll take to achieve your goals. 

The philosophy behind motivational interviewing is that hearing yourself commit to something out loud is a highly effective way to discover the inclination you need to follow through with it. In motivational interviewing, the therapist takes the role of an active listener, encouraging you to make choices for reasons of your own, not to fulfill someone else’s idea of how you should behave. 

If you are finding it challenging to pursue your goals and considering seeking treatment, but haven’t decided what methods are a good fit for you, motivational interviewing could provide the impetus you need. 

Focusing on Personal Growth

Sometimes, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by life’s demands and fall prey to unwholesome habits. At Serene Behavioral Health, our caring professionals are here to provide you with a judgment-free way to get treatment for mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD and borderline personality disorder. 

We can create a customized plan to meet your unique needs as you work your way toward improved mental health and the freedom that comes with it. To learn more about what we offer, including our four levels of care, reach out to us today.