School Counselors Using Motivational Interviewing

ABSTRACT Counselors have successfully used motivational interviewing with adolescents who struggle with a variety of issues. However, there is little data that has explored the use of motivational interviewing to address academic concerns in schools. This qualitative study explored the experiences of school counselors who have used motivational interviewing to improve student academic performance. The results revealed several themes including defining motivational interviewing in schools and explaining specific techniques. The themes that emerged from this study strengthen existing research and provide current and future school counselors with insight into the potential of using motivational interviewing to improve student academic performance.