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Motivational Interviewing Preparing People to Change Addictive Behavior

“Excellent ‘how-to’ book….This is a landmark book that could be the harbinger of a revolution in the treatment of substance abuse and other addictive behaviors…Nonetheless, the rationale for motivational interviewing is sound, well thought out and sensible, given what is known about the psychology of motivation. There is little doubt that the authors, who are well-known researchers as well as clinicians, will be filling in the empirical lacunae as soon as the data are available. In the meantime, clinicians who are looking for a new approach to motivating substance abuse clients that is solidly based on empirical research can do no better than to read this book and learn motivational interviewing.” –Studies on Alcohol

“A unique approach designed to help clients identify and change a wide variety of bith substance and process addictions….Of great value in a baccalaureate nursing program or for a practicing nurse clinician….Highly recommended because of its usefulness to addictions nurses.” –Perspectives on Addictions Nursing

“An up to date, well-written, and comprehensive outline of a motivational approach to addictions counseling….The culmination of a decade of research and experience….One of those important books produced every four or five years which is a necessary read for all of us who are trying to help people change their addictive behavior.” –Alcohol and Alcoholism

“….Particularly useful with people who are reluctant to change or ambivalent about changing.” –International Journal of Social Psychiatry
— Review

Simply the best text of its type — J.F. Stand, Ph.D., Rehabilitation College of Springfield College, MA, course: Rehabilitation of Alcoholics

Well organized and well written. Packed with useful information — Ann Tomey, Indiana State University

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Well written, concise, a good balance of theory & practice
The basic premise of this book and indeed that of Motivational Interviewing (MI) is that we as individuals have problems and issues and furthermore that given the right circumstances we as individuals have the tools to resolve those issues and problems. Thus although the counsellor/therapist can enable change by creating a conducive environment that supports and sustains the process, it is the client who must be responsible for such change.

MI has a grounding in Rogerian therapy but it is more directive rather than non-directive. Commenting on this Miller and Rollnick write ” …the motivational interviewer proceeds with a strong sense of purpose, clear strategies and skills for pursuing that purpose, and a sense of timing to intervene in particular ways at incisive moments.”

The book is split into three parts: Background, Practice and Clinical Applications. Thus there is an excellent balance between theoretical considerations and practical implications.

The authors outline five principles which underlie MI, these are:

1. Express Empathy

2. Develop Discrepancy

3. Avoid Argumentation

4. Roll with Resistance

5. Support Self-Efficacy

The book is clear and detailed in how these principles are to be put into practice at differing stages of the change process. It is this clarity – which incidentally runs throughout its pages – which makes ‘Motivational Interviewing’ such an easy yet, I feel essential read.

I work for a counselling service for those with alcohol related problems and this text is the one, which I encourage new members of staff and students on placement to read. Similarly, if you are interested in the subject matter of the change process, whether in terms of addictive behaviour or other more non-specific areas, I do recommend that you take a look ‘Motivational Interviewing’.

A couple of years ago I attended a conference that Bill Miller had been addressing. It fell to him to make the closing comments. These were pertinent and to the point, however the most notable thing about the closing notes were that Miller sang them in a Country and Western style. A book by anybody that barmy deserves a read!

5 Stars Well-written. Even advanced therapists will appreciate it.
Although they emphasize substance abuse, the authors’ system applies to almost every problem. It can cut your stress as it helps you become more artful and effective in helping clients actualize thier motivations toward success. Very clearly written, systematic, and enjoyable to read. Special populations are covered. Research is increasingly supporting this approach.

4 Stars Easy and practicle guide to changing behavior
I have worked with criminal offenders for the last 10 years and have found this approach outlined in the book extremely useful. The book is easy to read and follow. I have used the information with Batterers, sex offenders and substance abusers. The only offenders I have found it not appropriate for are “diagnosed” psychopaths.

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