Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a verbal skill that, when used during helping interactions, assists with people resolving ambivalence regarding interest in behavior change effects. It is grounded in a respectful stance with a focus on building rapport in the initial stages of the counseling relationship. A central concept of MI is the identification, examination, and resolution of ambivalence about changing behavior. Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative conversation to strengthen a person’s own motivation for and commitment to change.

MI shows moderate advantage in Medical Setting in a wide range of presenting areas. Due to the impact Motivational Interviewing can have on helping patients with pain, the NCRPI has MI courses available at least once a year in one of their trainings.