ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a brief description of the theoretical frameworks that inform motivational interviewing. It looks at the theories that inform MI, then about MI as a method of intervention and finally explores the application of core social work counselling skills discussed in Part I, in the MI world. Building the therapeutic relationship has a central place in MI. This is informed by MI’s humanistic theory foundation and it permeates all aspects of the MI spirit. Trans Theoretical Model of change has found much support in a range of helping settings and social work is no exception. Miller and Rollnick are very clear that MI is not a form of cognitive behaviour therapy as it 'does not involve teaching new skills, re-educating, counterconditioning, changing the environment, or installing more rational and adaptive beliefs. MI can be viewed as being a refined form of the naturally occurring communication style of guiding when helping someone to solve a problem.
