Treating addiction can be a complex process that requires several different therapeutic modalities. One option that treatment centers offer is motivational interviewing programs. But what is motivational interviewing? Learn more about our motivational interviewing programs in Asheville at Insight Recovery Center at 828.826.1376.
What Is Motivational Interviewing (MI)?
Motivational interviewing for addiction is a counseling approach that can help people who struggle to find the right motivations to make positive changes.
Motivational interviewing for addiction focuses on collaboration and not confrontation. It is vital to see your therapist as your partner, which is what MI offers. This type of counseling allows you to build trust in your relationship with your therapist.
MI also focuses on the idea that real change has to come from within. A counselor or therapist cannot impose it. Using motivational interviewing techniques, a therapist can help you identify your motivations so that you don’t feel like anyone is pushing you in a direction you do not want to go.
Motivational interviewing also does not impose the therapist as the authority figure. Change is yours to make when you want to make it.
The 4 Stages of Motivational Interviewing for Addiction
Four core stages exist in motivational interviewing. They are:
- Engage – Engage with your therapist. This is the first stage, and it is one of the most important ones. By being honest with them and engaging in conversation, you can start building rapport and trust.
- Focus – The focus stage of MI can help you find your goal. It can help you explore the behaviors you want to change and see what might be preventing you from making those changes. If there is ambivalence, this stage can help you identify it.
- Evoke – In the evoke stage, you can start thinking about why you want to achieve the goal you established in the focus stage. It can help you find your internal motivation.
- Plan – The planning stage helps you put together actionable steps to help you achieve your goals.
Working with your therapist and following the four-step process is the best way to achieve positive outcomes and move toward recovery.
Benefits of Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing is not confrontational, making it easier to avoid resistance. Resistance can make you less receptive to treatment, which can increase the time your recovery takes. By removing that resistance and allowing you, as the patient, to make decisions without judgment, you can begin healing sooner.
It is one thing to say you want to stop drinking or using drugs, but do you have the internal motivation you need to do so? Motivational interviewing can help you find that core of strength that can guide you through the many challenges that addiction recovery can pose.
MI also builds self-confidence. As you start making decisions and finding your internal motivations, you can feel more in control of your life and recovery. Some types of therapies can make self-esteem issues worse because it can appear as if everything you do is wrong in the eyes of the therapist, but that is not so with MI.
Motivational interviewing can also help you find a more positive outlook on treatment. It allows you to see it as being for your benefit and a process you can rely on.
Try Motivational Interviewing for Addiction at Insight Recovery Center
Motivational interviewing can be an essential therapeutic tool in your recovery. You can benefit from a less confrontational therapy option, especially if you are unsure about your motivations for getting sober.
At Insight Recovery Center, we can provide various treatment options to help you start healing. We know addiction treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and we are here to ensure you get the exact care you need. Contact Insight Recovery Center today at 828.826.1376 or reach out online.