Question 1

How long does it take to use a motivational interviewing template?

Accepted Answer

A brief MI intervention using the template typically takes 5-15 minutes, making it feasible for primary care. Studies show that even 5-10 minute MI interventions produce modest but significant behaviour change.

Question 2

What are the most important skills for effective motivational interviewing?

Accepted Answer

The core skills are captured by the OARS acronym: Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, and Summaries. The spirit of MI is partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation.

Question 3

Can MI be effective for patients who are not ready to change?

Accepted Answer

Yes, MI is specifically designed for patients who are ambivalent. When readiness is low, the goal shifts to building discrepancy between current behaviour and personal values.

Question 4

How does the template distinguish between change talk and sustain talk?

Accepted Answer

Change talk (desire, ability, reasons, need, commitment to change) predicts actual behaviour change. The template prompts clinicians to reflect and affirm change talk while avoiding arguing for change in response to sustain talk.