Motivational interviewing: a communication approach for initiating change

Motivational interviewing is an evidence‐based communication style that has been used for a number of decades in human health to support people to make changes for their health and wellbeing. It has often been applied in the most difficult areas, such as the addictions field, forensics and law enforcement, as well as a range of other health areas. It focuses on specific issues to be addressed and is conversational in approach, bringing together the expertise of the professional and the person's knowledge of their own situation and what might be possible for them. This article gives a brief introduction to how motivational interviewing can be used as an approach when working with people who may need to make changes for the benefit and welfare of animals.