What is the role of motivational interviewing in substance abuse treatment?

• A. To provide direct advice to clients
• B. To enforce behavioral change
• C. To encourage clients to explore and resolve their ambivalence toward change
• D. To assess clients' readiness for therapy

Answer: (C)

Motivational interviewing is a person-centered counseling style that aims to enhance an individual's motivation to change by helping them explore and resolve their ambivalence toward that change. In the context of substance abuse treatment, individuals often experience conflicting feelings about their substance use, leading to reluctance or hesitation in committing to recovery. By using motivational interviewing techniques, healthcare providers create a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly discuss their thoughts and feelings about their substance use, which facilitates self-reflection and personal insight.

This method fosters a collaborative relationship between the therapist and the client, empowering the individual to take ownership of their decision-making process and reinforcing their autonomy. As clients articulate their desires for change alongside their uncertainties, they are better able to identify intrinsic motivation, set realistic goals, and develop a commitment to behavioral change. Thus, the role of motivational interviewing in substance abuse treatment is fundamentally about facilitating this exploration and resolution of ambivalence, making it a key component of effective therapeutic interventions.