Centring on communication

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a method that enables healthcare professionals to effectively support patients in making behavioural changes and improving self-care for oral health. This approach respects the patient’s autonomy and fosters a collaborative partnership, helping them to identify their own motivations for maintaining optimum oral health.

The roots of motivational interviewing

Developed in the 1980s by American psychologist William R. Miller, MI was initially designed to support positive change in addiction treatment. Stephen Rollnick later joined Miller to expand the approach to various fields, including healthcare, social work, and mental health. Their latest book, Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change and Grow, was published in 2023.