Why Motivational Interviewing Is a Person-Centered Approach

Background: The original developers of motivational interviewing (MI) describe the foundation of their therapeutic method in the person-centered tradition of Carl Rogers. Although MI is sometimes interpreted as a cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), it did not derive from learning theory and has from the beginning been understood and expounded as a person-centered approach (PCA). Method: Narrative and conceptual review. Results: As with Rogers's original method, the development of MI has been guided by empirical science based on the close observation of clinical practice. It is a behavioral approach in the broad sense of behavioral science. The underlying attitude or spirit with which MI is practiced is unambiguously humanistic in emphasizing partnership, acceptance, compassion, and empowerment. MI focuses on specific observable elements of therapeutic relationship that predict better client outcomes. Various behavioral scientists have distinguished MI from CBT both conceptually and with distinct clinical procedures. The psychological content of MI overlaps substantially with PCA practices such as accurate empathy and also with therapist skills often described as common or nonspecific factors in psychotherapy. Its component processes are engaging, focusing, evoking, and planning. The evoking process of MI distinguishes it from both CBT and nondirective PCA, involving MIspecific technical skills focused on specific client language known as change talk and sustain talk. Conclusions: Like PCA more generally, MI has found broad applications in helping professions well beyond counseling and psychotherapy such as health care, education, pastoral care, conflict resolution, and leadership. Possible historic reasons for confusing MI with CBT are explored.