Motivational Interviewing (MI) is particularly valuable for polyamory when ambivalence about change is blocking recovery.
Ambivalence in Polyamory
People with polyamory are often ambivalent about change — part wants relief, part fears the unknown of being without familiar polyamory patterns. This is normal, not resistance.
How MI Addresses Polyamory Ambivalence
MI uses specific techniques to help people explore and resolve their ambivalence about polyamory treatment:
- Reflective listening: Hearing and naming both sides of polyamory ambivalence
- Decisional balance: Exploring pros and cons of changing vs. staying the same with polyamory
- Evoking change talk: Drawing out the person's own reasons for addressing polyamory
- Affirming strengths: Highlighting past capacities relevant to polyamory recovery
MI in Polyamory Treatment Settings
MI is integrated into many polyamory treatment approaches as an engagement tool. It's particularly useful at the beginning of treatment and when motivation fluctuates.