Motivational Interviewing in Neurorehabilitation: Empowering Engagement in Recovery
Motivational Interviewing in Neurorehabilitation: Empowering Engagement in Recovery
Recovering from a neurological condition such as an acquired brain injury can be a physically and emotionally complex journey. Many individuals struggle with motivation, fluctuating insight, and emotional readiness to engage with rehabilitation. In these scenarios, Motivational Interviewing (MI) has emerged as a valuable approach, offering patients a supportive, collaborative space to explore their goals and commit to recovery at their own pace.
A Patient-Centred Approach to Change
Motivational Interviewing is a structured yet flexible counselling style rooted in empathy, respect, and partnership. Initially developed in the context of addiction, it has since been adapted across healthcare settings—including neurorehabilitation—where ambivalence towards treatment or behaviour change is common.
Rather than instructing or directing, MI invites patients to consider their own motivations. Through open dialogue, clinicians help individuals recognise the gap between where they are and where they want to be. This method respects autonomy while gently guiding patients towards meaningful change.
Relevance in Neurorehabilitation Settings
The neurological conditions addressed in neurorehabilitation-such as brain injury, stroke, or degenerative disorders often come with cognitive and emotional challenges. Issues like reduced self-awareness, executive dysfunction, or mood instability can impact a person’s ability or willingness to engage with therapy.
MI is especially useful in this context because it adapts to each individual’s readiness for change. It supports the therapeutic relationship by building trust and understanding, which is essential for those adjusting to life after neurological trauma.
Through the principles of MI expressing empathy, developing discrepancy, rolling with resistance, and supporting self-efficacy, clinicians can work alongside patients rather than pushing against resistance. This encourages greater collaboration, enhances goal-setting, and fosters a more proactive approach to recovery.
Enhancing Engagement and Motivation
One of the most powerful aspects of MI is its ability to increase engagement in rehabilitation. By focusing on what matters most to the individual whether that’s regaining independence, returning to work, or improving relationships, therapists can tailor interventions that feel more personal and relevant.
For example, a person with a traumatic brain injury may feel disengaged from therapy due to fear of failure or self-doubt. Rather than confronting resistance head-on, MI allows space to validate these concerns, explore internal motivations, and reframe goals in manageable, achievable steps. This often leads to improved participation and a more hopeful outlook on recovery.
A Tool for Sustainable, Person-Led Change
The integration of Motivational Interviewing into neurorehabilitation not only improves individual outcomes but also reflects broader healthcare values: patient-centred care, shared decision-making, and holistic support. As neuropsychological services continue to evolve, MI provides a structure for supporting emotional readiness and behavioural change in complex, real-world scenarios.
At The London Neurocognitive Clinic, Motivational Interviewing is used to enhance engagement and autonomy in patients with acquired brain injuries and neurological conditions. By integrating MI principles into our neurorehabilitation programmes, we support individuals in exploring their goals, building self-efficacy, and taking active steps towards recovery on their own terms, and at their own pace.
