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where appropriate, encouraging a movement away from sustain talk toward change talk.

Summary
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is often recommended as an evidence-based approach to behavior change.
However, definitions of MI vary widely, including out of date and inaccurate understandings. This
document provides a brief summary of what MI is, what is isn’t and where to go next if you are interested
in learning more about this approach.

What is Motivational Interviewing?
“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)