Motivational Interviewing in Ottawa

What is motivational interviewing?

Motivational interviewing uses partnership, open questions, reflective listening and summaries to understand a person’s own view of change. The practitioner may invite the person to explore what matters, what gets in the way and what next step—if any—feels chosen.

What does ambivalence mean here?

Ambivalence is the experience of having mixed reasons, feelings or priorities about a change. Motivational interviewing does not treat uncertainty as defiance; it makes space to examine both sides and avoid an argument that leaves the person feeling pushed.

Where might it be used?

Practitioners may use motivational interviewing in therapy, health, substance-use, behaviour-change or other helping contexts. The approach itself does not establish a diagnosis or determine what change someone should make.

Questions to ask in Ottawa

Ask how the practitioner protects your autonomy, how they handle a goal you are not ready to pursue, whether motivational interviewing is their primary approach or one skill they use, and how they work with risk or urgent concerns.

What is motivational interviewing?

Motivational interviewing is a collaborative communication approach for exploring ambivalence and a person’s own reasons for change. It aims to support autonomy rather than persuade someone through pressure.

Is motivational interviewing therapy?

It can be used within therapy and other helping relationships, but the label alone does not tell you the practitioner’s profession, scope or full treatment approach. Confirm how it is used in their practice.

Can motivational interviewing help if I am not ready to change?

Exploring not being ready can be part of the conversation. A practitioner should make room for uncertainty and help you understand your options without assuming that a particular outcome is required.

Is motivational interviewing the same as coaching?

They can overlap in some settings, but they are not automatically the same. Ask about the practitioner’s credentials, scope, goals and whether the relationship is therapy, coaching or another service.

What should I ask an Ottawa motivational interviewing practitioner?

Ask what training they have, how they respond when you disagree, what concern areas they work with, how privacy is handled and what other approaches or supports may be available.