MI Skills and Practice: A Practical Guide
August 12, 2026 2026-08-15 11:12MI Skills and Practice: A Practical Guide
Motivational Interviewing Skills: A Practical Guide
Motivational Interviewing skills develop through more than understanding the principles of MI. Using them effectively in real conversations takes practice.
This guide brings together the core communication skills and practical resources for listening, guiding, responding to ambivalence and exchanging information while maintaining partnership and respect for autonomy.
Core Motivational Interviewing Skills: OARS + I
The fourth edition of Motivational Interviewing describes the core communication skills as OARS + I. Information exchange is especially important for practitioners who bring professional knowledge, advice or concerns to conversations.
O
Open Questions
Invite exploration and help people describe their own experience.
R
Reflections
Offer an understanding of meaning and experience rather than relying mainly on questions.
+ I
Information Exchange
Share knowledge, advice and concerns while continuing to involve the other person.
Working with what happens in the conversation
MI skills become particularly useful when people feel two ways about change, when the status quo has important benefits, or when tension develops between practitioner and client.
From exploring motivation to planning
MI is purposeful without assuming that every conversation must end with an action plan. When readiness develops, practitioners can help people consider possible next steps, strengthen confidence and translate motivation into an achievable way forward.
Motivational Interviewing Skills Develop Through Practice and Feedback
Understanding MI is not the same as being skilful in MI. Practitioners can benefit from demonstration, practice, reflection, useful feedback and opportunities to return to real conversations with a particular learning focus.
Explore Motivational Interviewing in practice
Explore how MI is used in different professional settings, or develop your skills through experiential training.
For further information about Motivational Interviewing and the international MI community, visit the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT).
