Core elements of Motivational Interviewing

• MI is practiced with an underlying spirit or way of being with people:
• Partnership. MI is a collaborative process. The MI practitioner is an expert in helping people change; people are the experts of their own lives.
• Evocation. People have within themselves resources and skills needed for change. MI draws out the person’s priorities, values, and wisdom to explore reasons for change and support success.
• Acceptance. The MI practitioner takes a nonjudgmental stance, seeks to understand the person’s perspectives and experiences, expresses empathy, highlights strengths, and respects a person’s right to make informed choices about changing or not changing.
• Compassion. The MI practitioner actively promotes and prioritizes clients’ welfare and wellbeing in a selfless manner.