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MI is framed as a method of communication rather than an intervention, sometimes used on its own or combined with other treatment approaches. There are a number of benefits of learning MI amongst other approaches to helping conversations:
- MI has been applied across a broad range of settings (e.g. health, corrections, human services, education), populations (e.g. age, ethnicity, religion, sexuality and gender identities), languages, treatment format (e.g. individual, group, telemedicine) and presenting concerns (e.g. health, fitness, nutrition, risky sex, treatment adherence, medication adherence, substance use, mental health, illegal behaviors, gambling, parenting).
- MI compares well to other evidence-based approaches in formal research studies.
- MI is compatible with the values of many disciplines and evidence-based approaches.
- Although the full framework is a complex skill set that require time and practice, the principles of MI have intuitive or “common sense” appeal and core elements of MI can be readily applied in practice as the clinician learns the approach.
- MI has observable practice behaviors that allow clinicians to receive clear and objective feedback from a trainer, consultant or supervisor.