Motivational Interviewing in Physical Therapy

Abstract

Aim The aim of this study was to assess whether a PT can deliver MI as intended during the treatment of patients with Non Communicable Diseases, after 3 days of MI training compared to no training. Our hypothesis is that a trained therapist will perform better than the therapist without training. Methods The therapists were divided in to two groups, one receiving the training the other not. Both groups delivered audiotapes of their conversations with patients about health related behavioral changes. These conversations were coded with the Motivational Interviewing Treatment Integrity Scale by two raters. Group scores were compared between both groups and with proficiency thresholds. Results The therapists with training scored better compared to the therapists without training. The trained group met three of five threshold scores for beginning proficiency but none of five for full competency. Conclusion: Physical therapists perform better after a three day training in MI. However maybe a longer training is needed to achieve full competency at motivational interviewing. Further research is needed to assess how much training is needed to reach full competency. Clinical Relevance: Physical therapists can use motivational interviewing to achieve health related behavioral changes when treating patients with lifestyle related health problems.