Motivational interviewing as an approach for learning supportive psychotherapy: a pilot training at a university and a general hospital

Abstract

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a collaborative communication style that aims at motivating people for change. MI has been successfully applied to various areas where therapeutic relationship is challenging. MI is considered an excellent approach for learning supportive psychotherapy due to its established training methods. Thus, we conducted group training sessions on MI at both a university and general hospital, along with supervisions in clinical settings. We analyzed attributes and feedback of the workshop participants. Professionals from various disciplines participated in these sessions, engaging in experiential exercises. Feedback from participants confirmed the notion that MI is well-suited for acquiring skills in establishing and maintaining therapeutic relationships. Individual supervisions as well as group exercises are required to master MI. Future implementation of MI training could involve collaboration among attending psychiatrists at teaching hospitals and external experts.