Integrating Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness

The combined application of motivational interviewing (MI) and mindfulness (MF) can be fundamental in fostering behavioral change and growth among patients struggling with medical and psychological conditions, such as chronic pain or depression. Many wonder whether combining the two modalities is a doable and effective clinical intervention strategy. Integrating Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness guides practitioners through the process, exploring 'a way of being' with patients that digs into the fluid and ever-evolving territory of MI and MF within healthcare settings. Split into three parts, this guide provides practitioners and trainees with a conceptual toolkit and set of practical strategies for integrating the evidence-based interventions of MI and MF to enhance patient-centered communication and facilitate behavioral change. It offers innovative ways to incorporate the spirit and skills of motivational interviewing for empowering the patient's autonomous self-regulation with components of mindfulness, such as compassion and acceptance. Throughout, the authors discuss their clinical and scientific perspectives with the best empirical data available, identifying where the integration of MI and MF is readily applicable and useful, and where there may be challenges. Chapters also feature clinical vignettes showcasing the integration of MI and MF in real-word clinical practice, accompanied by evidence-based discussion, personal reflections, and self-assessment questions that summarise key concepts. This is a guide by practitioners for practitioners in healthcare, no matter what the specialty or setting, but will be especially relevant for those in the fields of psychiatry, internal medicine, and family medicine.