Explain Motivational interviewing.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered counseling approach designed to elicit and strengthen an individual's motivation for behavior change. Developed by psychologists William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick, MI is widely used in various fields, including healthcare, addiction treatment, and mental health.

Key principles of Motivational Interviewing include expressing empathy, developing discrepancy (highlighting the gap between current behavior and future goals), avoiding argumentation, rolling with resistance, and supporting self-efficacy. The therapist engages in collaborative conversations that explore ambivalence toward change, aiming to enhance the client's intrinsic motivation.

MI is characterized by a non-confrontational and non-judgmental style, where the therapist actively listens, asks open-ended questions, and reflects back the client's thoughts and feelings. By navigating the client's ambivalence and fostering a sense of autonomy, MI seeks to empower individuals to identify and commit to positive behavioral changes based on their own values and goals.