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Essay / The Importance of Motivational Interviewing - 793
The two main reasons for using this therapeutic approach are to move the addict in the direction of positive change toward recovery and to resolve ambivalence by increasing internal motivation and increasing self-efficacy. . The principles of motivational interviewing are: expressing empathy; ride with resistance; develop a divergence; supporting self-efficacy; avoid arguments. Gaining self-confidence, or self-efficacy, is necessary for the client to develop an optimistic attitude toward recovery. Cognitive behavioral therapies help individuals achieve self-control through self-control training. Additionally, this therapeutic approach is effective in teaching skills for coping with difficult or stressful situations, as well as relapse prevention strategies. Mindfulness techniques have helped individuals gain control over stress and unwanted feelings that can lead to relapse. Such control is achieved through the practice of “being in the moment” and meditation. These skills help regulate compulsive thoughts. Pharmacotherapy uses prescription medications for detoxification and to reduce craving and withdrawal symptoms from certain medications. The chapter also discusses in detail the broad-spectrum strategies mentioned above and improves specific areas of an individual's life that are not affected by the direct effect.