The Motivational Interviewing Path to Personal Change

“In our normal self-critical frame of mind, motivation is something we don’t have and can only get by taking the cotton out of our ears and shoving motivation into our thick skulls. It rarely works. This book gently asks compassionate and important questions, teaching us how to listen to our own deepest yearnings. Instead of shoving motivation in, this book artfully creates a space for the caring within to step forward and be known. Highly recommended.”
—Steven C. Hayes, PhD, originator of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) ~Steven C. Hayes, PhD

“As we come to understand psychological principles more clearly, it becomes possible for people to learn and apply them in their own lives. In this clearly written book, Michelle Drapkin conveys insights from forty years of research on motivational interviewing (MI) that can be applied to understand and shape your own motivation for change.”
—William R. Miller, PhD, emeritus distinguished professor of psychology and psychiatry at The University of New Mexico ~William R. Miller, PhD

“This book is a gem! Having worked alongside Drapkin for many years, I have witnessed firsthand her applied science approach to human behavior and to truly helping people. This book combines her knowledge, excellent communication skills, empathy, and wit. Everyone will benefit from this book at their own pace, with limitless potential for positive impact in your life. It’s truly wonderful to see such an important contribution to people’s lives.”
—Jack Groppel, internationally recognized pioneer in the science of human performance, and hall-of-fame coach who has authored dozens of books and publications ~Jack Groppel

“The science of MI permeates this book. More importantly, Drapkin permeates this book. What a companion she is! You will get to know a kind, funny, helpful, open, and wise psychologist. She is ready to become your biggest supporter, to accomplish what until now has been so difficult. You will need to do your part, but her presence may make what seemed impossible, quite possible.”
—A. Tom Horvath, PhD, ABPP, president of Practical Recovery Psychology Group; and author of Sex, Drugs, Gambling, and Chocolate ~A. Tom Horvath, PhD, ABPP

“If you’ve been working on a goal or change for longer than you’d care to admit, stop whatever you’re doing that isn’t working, and pick up this book! Drapkin provides a simple, user-friendly, engaging, and insightful process to help you tap into your motivation, reduce interferences, and stay enthusiastic through the change process.”
—Deborah Grayson Riegel, MSW, communication coach, and author of Go to Help ~Deborah Grayson Riegel, MSW

“Behavior change is HARD, especially if you’re not one hundred percent sure you want to or can change. Drapkin has come to the rescue with The Motivational Interviewing Path to Personal Change. Her guidance is clear, enthusiastic, and most of all...motivating! I highly recommend this book for anyone who is thinking about making a change and could use a wise guide to help show the way.”
—Jill Stoddard, PhD, author of Imposter No More, and cohost of the Psychologists Off the Clock podcast ~Jill Stoddard, PhD

“I’ve never read a workbook in which the author’s voice was more alive in the words. Michelle Drapkin’s humor, empathy, and insight suffuse every page of The Motivational Interviewing Path to Personal Change. In line with the spirit of MI, she embraces both/and thinking: This is your journey, and she will accompany you every step of the way.”
—Seth Gillihan, PhD, host of the Think Act Be podcast, and author of Mindful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ~Seth Gillihan, PhD

“What a lovely guide for change! Thank you, Michelle Drapkin, for sitting in the living room with us and guiding us through the changes we hope for in our life. It is rare to get true expertise in the science of change, wrapped in a personal sense of being held and guided through this process we all face day to day: how to move toward the life we truly want.”
—Jeff Foote, PhD, clinical psychologist; and cofounder of the Center for Motivation and Change (CMC), and the CMC: Foundation for Change ~Jeff Foote, PhD

“If you are looking for inspiration for personal movement forward or engagement in values-based living, then The Motivational Interviewing Path to Personal Change is the exact book you have been looking for. Michelle Drapkin has written a personable, witty, and thoughtful book about making major changes in life. Drapkin invites readers through focusing, tracking, choosing, and committing to live forward in meaningful and purpose-driven ways. A must-read for genuine and lasting change!”
—Robyn D. Walser, PhD, author The Heart of ACT; coauthor of Learning ACT and The Mindful Couple; and assistant professor at the University of California, Berkeley ~Robyn D. Walser, PhD

“Whether you seek sustainable change in your own life, or guidance to design change journeys for others, Michelle Drapkin offers an accessible and engaging road map to get there. I’ve used MI in my design work for decades; since finishing this book, I’m bursting with energy and ideas to improve how I do it. Change isn’t easy, but having The Motivational Interviewing Path to Personal Change in your pocket sure helps.”
—Amy Bucher, PhD, chief behavioral officer at Lirio, and author of Engaged

~Amy Bucher, PhD