Changes in Healthcare Professionals' Confidence and Knowledge Following Brief Online Motivational Interviewing Training: A Quasiexperimental Study

Introduction: Despite the established effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing (MI) in promoting health behavior change, intensive training formats may be impractical for busy healthcare professionals. This study evaluated changes in self-reported confidence and MI knowledge following brief, multisession online MI training for healthcare professionals engaged in lifestyle disease management. Methods: A quasiexperimental pre-post study included 25 healthcare professionals participating in six monthly 30-minute online MI sessions. Participants were categorized into complete (n = 15) and incomplete (n = 10) attendance groups. Confidence was measured using an 8-item questionnaire and knowledge using the Motivational Interviewing Knowledge and Attitudes Test (MIKAT). Results: The complete attendance group showed a trend toward increased self-reported confidence across all items, with changes ranging from +0.07 to +0.60 points on a 5-point scale. The largest increases involved empathy/reflection and alcohol dependency support; however, confidence changes were not statistically significant, and knowledge outcomes showed no consistent improvement. Discussion: This study presents an innovative model integrating brief, spaced online MI training into a mobile health (mHealth)–based lifestyle management service. Embedding learning within a remote care platform allows healthcare professionals to learn about MI alongside real-world digital interventions. Complete attendees showed a trend toward increased confidence, whereas MI knowledge did not improve consistently. The program's scalability and effects on clinical practice require further evaluation. These findings support reinforcement strategies and objective assessment of MI skills.