Is Motivational Interviewing CBT? 

When exploring ways to support positive change, many wonder, “Is motivational interviewing CBT?” While both are popular talk therapies used to help people overcome challenges, they are different approaches with unique goals and techniques. Motivational interviewing (MI) focuses on building a person’s own motivation to change through open, respectful conversations. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), on the other hand, helps people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. This blog will explain what motivational interviewing is, how it compares to CBT, and how motivational interviewing techniques work in practice. 

Is Motivational Interviewing CBT? 

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is its own distinct form of psychotherapy, separate from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). While both focus on helping people change behaviors, MI centers on building a person’s internal motivation through a collaborative and empathetic conversation. It helps individuals resolve mixed feelings about change by exploring their own values and goals without pressure or judgment. Motivational interviewing questions are often used when someone is unsure or resistant to change, making it a powerful tool to increase readiness before other therapies like CBT begin.  

Here are some examples of motivational interviewing (MI) questions: 

• What are some reasons you might want to make this change? 

• How important is this change to you on a scale from 1 to 10? 

• What concerns do you have about changing? 

• What has worked for you in the past when trying to make changes? 

• How confident do you feel about your ability to make this change? 

• What would be different in your life if you made this change? 

• What are some small steps you could take toward your goal? 

Thus, motivational interviewing is not CBT but a complementary approach that can work alongside it. 

What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)? 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that helps people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional problems. It focuses on teaching practical skills like recognizing irrational thoughts, developing coping strategies, and facing fears gradually. CBT is widely used for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Unlike MI, which builds motivation, CBT assumes the person is ready to actively work on change by challenging unhelpful thinking and adopting healthier behaviors. It is often more directive and involves specific exercises to support lasting recovery. 

What’s the Difference Between CBT and Motivational Interviewing?    

The main difference between CBT and motivational interviewing (MI) lies in their approach and goals. When comparing CBT vs MI, CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors through structured techniques. Motivational interviewing, however, centers on building a person’s own motivation and readiness to change through open, supportive conversations. While CBT is more directive and skill-based, MI uses questions and reflective listening to explore ambivalence and encourage commitment. Both can be effective, but they serve different purposes and often work best when combined in treatment.