Motivational interviewing has become an increasingly popular approach for helping individuals with addiction issues. This type of therapy considers the individual’s motivations rather than focusing on punishment or fear tactics that may be used for other kinds of counseling.
But what is the primary goal of motivational interviewing?
Keep reading to discuss the goals of motivational interviewing techniques and their efficacy as a substance abuse treatment program.
Motivational interviewing is a form of therapeutic counseling designed to help people with addictions discuss their goals and make positive lifestyle changes.
It is rooted in the idea that people are driven to action by their inner motivation, not by coercion or external pressures.
The goal of motivational interviewing is to engage clients in exploring and resolving ambivalence about change, inspiring self-motivation, and facilitating commitment to lasting change.
Motivational interviewing has effectively addressed addiction-related issues such as substance abuse, gambling, sex addiction, and eating disorders.
Research shows that engaging in motivational interviewing has improved recovery outcomes over those who do not participate in this type of therapy.
A meta-analysis published in 2018 showed that when compared with standard care alone, clients receiving motivational interviewing had significantly better outcomes, including:
Motivational interviewing is cost-effective since it does not require additional resources for implementation. Research suggests it can reduce overall costs associated with treatment because of fewer hospitalizations or relapses.
Different studies suggest that this type of counseling can lead to more long-term success.
This is because it focuses on creating sustainable changes within the individual rather than relying on short-term solutions such as medications or quick-fix methods like punishing individuals for drug use or drinking episodes.
Yes, motivational interviewing is an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment.
It has been empirically tested and studied extensively in psychology and mental health.
Multiple research studies have shown its efficacy in helping individuals with substance use or other addictive disorders make positive lifestyle changes.
The World Health Organization includes motivational interviewing as a best practice method for treating addiction.
The American Psychological Association has endorsed motivational interviewing as a recommended practice for addressing addiction-related issues.
Motivational interviewing has several benefits for addiction recovery, such as:
These benefits can have a powerful effect on addiction recovery by helping individuals explore their motivations, understand what drives them to continue using drugs or other substances, and create lasting lifestyle changes that will lead to long-term sobriety.
The core motivational interviewing concepts are as follows:
Some examples of motivational interviewing questions include:
Prevail Recovery Center provides a comprehensive treatment program for individuals struggling with substance abuse.
Our outpatient facility’s evidence-based approach combines motivational interviewing techniques and other integrative treatments tailored to meet each client’s needs.
Through our compassionate team of experienced professionals and individualized care, we strive to empower clients with the skills they need to build healthier lifestyles, overcome addiction, and sustain long-term recovery.
If you or a loved one is seeking substance abuse treatment, contact Prevail at (866) 441-2455 to get started.
We look forward to joining you on your path toward health and wellness!
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