Creating Context for Independence: Motivational Interviewing with Elizabeth Murphy-Lewis

Today our subject is Motivational Interviewing. In short, Motivational Interviewing, or MI as we might call it in this conversation, is an evidence-based communication model that employs empathic, active listening to empower positive change.

Here is a longer definition from MI originators Stephen Rollnick and William R. Miller: “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.”

Through Empathic, Active listening, MI empowers students to change using their own meaning, importance, and capacity for change. The staff at Focus Collegiate is incorporating Motivational Interviewing into the work it does with students and their parents. 

Listen in for more information on how this practice benefits college students with complex learning profiles.