What is the primary goal of motivational interviewing?

The primary goal of motivational interviewing is to guide individuals in recognizing and solving their own behavioral challenges. This approach emphasizes collaboration between the peer recovery specialist and the individual, fostering an environment where the individual feels empowered to explore their own motivations for change. Rather than imposing solutions or providing advice, the specialist helps the individual articulate their feelings and thoughts, ultimately supporting them in making their own informed decisions regarding their behavior. This client-centered approach is fundamental in promoting personal agency and accountability in the recovery process, which can lead to more sustainable changes and improvements in behavior. By focusing on the individual's own insights and motivations, motivational interviewing creates a more effective and supportive pathway to recovery.