CCNY, Community Connections of New York

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Motivational Interviewing

From Wikipedia 

Motivational interviewing (MI) refers to a counseling approach in part developed by clinical psychologists Professor William R MillerPh.D. and Professor Stephen RollnickPh.D. It is a client-centered, semi-directive method of engaging intrinsic motivation to change behavior by developing discrepancy and exploring and resolving ambivalence within the client.

Motivational interviewing is non-judgmental, non-confrontational and non-adversarial. The approach attempts to increase the client's awareness of the potential problems caused, consequences experienced, and risks faced as a result of the behavior in question. Alternately, therapists help clients envisage a better future, and become increasingly motivated to achieve it. Either way, the strategy seeks to help clients think differently about their behavior and ultimately to consider what might be gained through change.