In MI, what does "partnership" imply?

In motivational interviewing (MI), "partnership" emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the clinician and the client. This approach recognizes that the client possesses valuable self-expertise regarding their own experiences, motivations, and goals. The partnership is built on mutual respect and understanding, where the clinician acts as a supportive guide rather than a directive authority.

By collaborating with the client's self-expertise, the clinician encourages active participation and ownership in the decision-making process. This approach fosters a therapeutic alliance that is essential for effective behavior change, as clients are more likely to engage and commit to the change process when they feel their knowledge and experiences are valued.

Utilizing this partnership model in MI supports the overall goal of enhancing the client's intrinsic motivation and empowering them to identify their own solutions rather than imposing external ideas or solutions. This relationship dynamic is vital for establishing trust and facilitating meaningful conversations that lead to positive outcomes.