Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Most people who need to change a behaviour already know they should and feel two ways about it. Motivational interviewing works with that ambivalence instead of arguing against it, which turns out to be far more effective than being told what to do.
May be recommended or referred
Overview
What it is
A conversational approach that helps a person explore their own reasons for change, rather than being told what to do.
Particularly suited to situations where someone feels two ways about changing a behaviour.
In practice
What a session involves
The conversation is deliberately not a lecture. It explores your own reasons for and against changing, in your words, without the clinician taking one side and pushing. Being argued at reliably produces defence of the behaviour; being asked what you make of it produces something else. The aim is that any decision to change is yours and therefore holds.
Suitability
Who it tends to suit
- Alcohol and tobacco dependence
- Other substance use, at the point where someone is unsure about stopping
- Lifestyle change where previous attempts have failed
- Anyone who has been told repeatedly to change and has stopped listening
What it does not do
Stated plainly, because a page that lists only benefits is an advertisement rather than an explanation.
- It does not manage withdrawal — that is a medical matter and comes first where relevant
- It is not a standalone treatment for a severe dependence
- It respects your decision, including a decision not to change yet
Commonly used for
Conditions this is used in
- Alcohol and tobacco dependence
- Other substance use
- Lifestyle change
This approach may be recommended as part of your care. Where it is not provided at the clinic itself, a referral can be arranged — the consultation will tell you which applies.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about motivational interviewing and how it fits with the rest of your care.
Will I be lectured about my drinking?
No. That approach reliably produces defensiveness and rarely produces change. The conversation is about your own view of it.
What if I am not sure I want to stop?
That is the normal starting point and is precisely what this approach is designed for. Being unsure is not a reason to stay away.
Is this instead of other treatment?
Usually alongside. Where withdrawal needs medical management, that is handled first — stopping some substances abruptly can be dangerous.
Appointments
Ask whether this approach suits you
Dr. Manchikalapudi Tirumala Babu consults at Maruthi Hospital and Diagnostics, Guntur. Call the clinic to request an appointment and talk through the options.
Consulting hours are Monday to Saturday, 6:00–9:00 PM, by appointment. This website does not confirm bookings on its own — the clinic confirms a time with you.