Planning in Motivational Interviewing
August 12, 2026 2026-08-19 15:33Planning in Motivational Interviewing
The Four Tasks of MI
Planning in Motivational Interviewing
Planning in Motivational Interviewing involves helping a person consider how they might make change happen when they are ready to move forward. It is the fourth task of MI and becomes relevant when a person begins considering practical next steps.
Planning in Motivational Interviewing is not always the next step
Practitioners often feel pressure to leave a conversation with an action plan. In MI, moving into planning too early can interrupt the person’s own process of considering whether and why change matters.
A useful conversation may sometimes end with greater clarity rather than a completed plan.
Signs that Planning in Motivational Interviewing may be timely
The person may be expressing stronger commitment language, asking questions about how to change, imagining next steps or showing less need to explore whether change is worthwhile.
From why to how
Once readiness develops, the conversation can shift towards options, strengths, resources and practical next steps.
“What do you think your next step might be?”
“What options have you considered?”
“What has worked for you before?”
“Who or what could support you?”
Advice still needs partnership
The practitioner may have useful suggestions or professional recommendations. Information exchange remains relevant during planning. Ask-Offer-Ask can help bring expertise into the conversation without taking ownership of the plan away from the person.
Strengthening commitment
A plan becomes more meaningful when it belongs to the person. Summarising their reasons, intended steps and available strengths can help consolidate commitment while leaving room to revise the plan when circumstances change.
