Motivational Interviewing to Improve Health Coaching Skills and Support Behavior Change

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based communication approach that has been adapted for the brief healthcare setting to address lifestyle management and treatment adherence issues, including chronic pain. MI has particular utility with individuals who are less motivated, less ready for change, and more angry or oppositional. Therefore, in addition to better clinical outcomes, the MI approach improves patient engagement by reducing resistance and defensiveness--an advantage when a difficult discussion ensues, such as a recommendation to taper/discontinue opioid use.