Most insurance plans will cover either all or a portion of the treatment.


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SUD treatment executive, national news contributor & keynote speaker.
Navigation:
- Overview
- How Does Motivational Interviewing Work?
- Is Motivational Interviewing Effective?
- Find Rehabs That Offer Motivational Interviewing
- Additional Resources for Motivational Interviewing
Overview
Motivational interviewing is a cornerstone of the alcohol and drug rehab process. It’s a commonly used therapy in addiction treatment that attempts to reverse negative behavior. There are five basic principles of motivational interviewing: expressing and showing empathy toward clients, supporting and developing discrepancy, dealing with resistance, supporting self-efficacy, and developing autonomy.
Motivational interviewing provides increased opportunities for self-awareness, reflection, and accountability. If you or your loved one are interested in motivational interviewing as part of drug rehab, use our directory of motivational interviewing addiction treatment centers today to find a facility that offers this type of therapy in your area.
How Does Motivational Interviewing Work?
Unlike other therapies that address the underlying causes of behavior, motivational interviewing is meant to inspire action and directly motivate patients toward behavioral change. The process allows you and your therapist to work together to overcome ambivalence that prevents change. It requires willing and intentional buy-in from both you and your care provider and belief in a partnership that fosters a collaborative approach to change.
There must be an identified goal, a belief that change can be applied to behaviors that get in the way of that goal, and a willingness to pursue that goal through collaborative intervention.
The current practice of MI is based on the primary principles of eliciting change talk and strengthening the client’s commitment to change.
Motivational Interviewing incorporates several distinct pillars that can be identified in the PACE formula:
- Partnership – You’re more willing to open up when your provider is empathetic and shows real interest in your point of view. Although your therapist will offer their input during this phase, you guide the dialogue.
- Acceptance – Your provider must accept and recognize your perspective to meaningfully engage with you and drive change.
- Compassion – Your provider should actively promote your welfare and prioritize your needs.
- Evocation – During this phase, you and your therapist can work together to explore existing motivations, values, strengths, and resources that can strengthen your pursuit of behavioral change.
Is Motivational Interviewing Effective?
An established and growing body of research points to the efficacy of motivational interviewing in substance use disorder treatment. Some studies even suggest that it outperforms traditional advice given in the treatment of a broad range of behavioral problems and diseases.
One of the prime reasons for its effectiveness is patients feel they’re seen, heard, and understood during their therapy. It’s a profoundly collaborative therapy that allows you or your loved one to take ownership of your change, explore the reasons for your resistance to behavior alteration and take meaningful steps toward real-life progress.
More and more rehab centers are integrating motivational interviewing into their overall care approach to help offer a holistic approach to treatment. If you or someone you care about are facing substance use disorder and want a collaborative and supportive treatment model, motivational interviewing may be an ideal therapy for you.
Find Rehabs That Offer Motivational Interviewing
Use our nationwide directory to easily find a rehab center that offers motivational interviewing as part of its addiction treatment program. Motivational interviewing is a client-centered counseling method that helps individuals build the confidence and commitment needed to make lasting changes. Whether you’re looking for inpatient, outpatient, or specialized care, our directory connects you with trusted facilities that integrate this evidence-based approach into recovery. Start your search today and find a motivational interviewing rehab near you!






