Motivational Interviewing Therapy in Massachusetts

Motivational interviewing for substance abuse help inspire change in participants who are scared or reluctant to change for one reason or another. Therapists help participants identify the reason behind their lack of willingness and help them identify new motivations to help with their recovery.

A therapist follows a four-step process to help participants identify their goals and begin working toward a sober and healthy life:

• Engaging – The first step in motivational counseling is for the therapist to develop a relationship with participants to build mutual trust and respect. This helps participants see that they are there to help and guide them through their recovery while ensuring they feel in control.
• Focusing – Participants talk about their goals and what they want to get out of therapy. Therapists will help define their goals by guiding the conversation toward the patterns and habits that lead to their substance abuse.
• Evoking – This stage is where therapists help participants focus on change and the motivation behind why they want to recover. Therapists will reflect on the participant’s motivation and help them strengthen their belief in their motivation and desire to change.
• Planning – The planning stage is when therapists help participants develop coping skills that they will use to maintain their sobriety at home and in social settings while keeping their motivation and goals in mind.