Motivational Interviewing

Explore your reactions to the readings and to what you have learned about Motivational Interviewing (MI). Explain how MI can be applied to clinical practice.

ANSWER

Motivational Interviewing Strategy

Motivational interviewing is a counseling approach that assists individuals in determining ambivalent feelings together with insecurities to find an internal motivation needed to change a particular behavior or character. It is always a short-term and practical procedure that considers it hard to make life changes. This method is popular in the health care system and is frequently used by many health care professionals. Its primary aim or intention is to encourage behavior change. Motivational interviewing is mostly used in a psychiatric setting and is valuable for the advanced psychiatric nurse practice nurse (Smedslund et al., 2011). Research indicates that this invention works effectively with people who start unmotivated or unprepared for change. It is less effective to people who are already motivated to change. The process is also effective for those who are hostile or angry. They might not be ready to commit to the change process, but motivational interviewing can assist them in transforming through various emotional phases of change to find their motivation.

Reaction to the Reading

The reading provides an in-depth understanding of motivational interviews outlined by various authors and researchers. As outlined, Bundy outlines that the foundation of the process originates from the transtheoretical model of change, which has six phases of change. The reading also outlines the important strategies in increasing motivation in a person (Karzenowski & Puskar, 2011). They range from reducing desirability, providing feedback, clarifying goals, and providing active helping. Motivational interviews also have basic principles of change and eight steps that enhance the entire process. The reading explains the different actions effective in successfully achieving the change. Within the process, there is a coaching aspect typically when the patient is about to prepare for the stage of change. It engages in examining willingness and educating the patient on the actions expected at the end of the process. Polcin concentrates on applying motivational interviews for patients suffering from various addictions through utilizing supportive and directive intervention. This assists patients in knowing the existing potential consequences of their addiction or actions. Patients will understand that their substance abuse is not in line with their values and goals.

Applying Motivational Interviews in Clinical Practice

The process is used on patients with psychological and physiological problems; however, the sessions should be long enough for the process to be effective. It provides a better relationship between the health care providers and the patients. Emphasizing patients’ autonomy and collaborating with them effectively ensures that they take charge of their change (Moyers, 2014). This can be accomplished by asking open-ended questions, giving attention to their problems, and asking for their permission to relay certain information. Patients should be given time to pick a pressing issue that they want to share, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of change, and spend time highly needed. An example has been given of patient R.P, who was diagnosed with intense hypoglycemia (Karzenowski & Puskar, 2011). After being subjected to motivational interviews, the patient was willing to share her issues with the therapist. This allowed for further advancement, including the working stage of the therapeutic relationship. In summary, motivational interviews are essential in the healthcare setup, and practitioners can apply the approach in all aspects of their operations. The method should only be used by professionals who are empathetic and supportive, and good listeners.

References

Karzenowski, A., & Puskar, K. (2011). Motivational interviewing: A valuable tool for the psychiatric advanced practice nurse. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 32(7), 436-440.

Moyers, T. B. (2014). The relationship in motivational interviewing. Psychotherapy, 51(3), 358.

Smedslund, G., Berg, R. C., Hammerstrøm, K. T., Steiro, A., Leiknes, K. A., Dahl, H. M., & Karlsen, K. (2011). Motivational interviewing for substance abuse. Campbell Systematic Reviews, 7(1), 1-126.