Motivational interviewing training for physiotherapy and occupational therapy students: Effect on confidence, knowledge and skills

Abstract

Objective: To examine the effectiveness of a three-day training programme on knowledge, confidence and fidelity to Motivational Interviewing (MI) delivery in an undergraduate occupational therapy and physiotherapy cohort (n = 25).

Methods: Training outcomes were assessed pre-training, post-training and following a subsequent clinical placement. The Motivational Interviewing Knowledge and Attitudes Test (MIKAT) and an 8-item survey assessed knowledge, attitudes and confidence respectively. MI fidelity was evaluated by a simulated patient interview rated with the Motivational Interviewing Treatment Integrity scale (MITI). Analysis was by one-way repeated measures ANOVA.

Results: Self-report measurements indicated increased confidence but no effect on knowledge or attitude. MITI analysis showed superior performance in all four global criteria and an increased frequency of MI adherent behaviours post-training. Positive changes were maintained following clinical placement. MITI summary scores indicated an improvement in question to reflection ratio in line with beginner competency.

Conclusion(s): Participation in a three-day MI training programme significantly improved student confidence and MI skilfulness.

Practice implications: Where feasible, MI training should be embedded within the curriculum. Further research is needed elucidate the best practices to incorporate teaching this skill set within the curriculum in order to best prepare students to counsel clients in behaviour change in their applied settings.

Keywords: Communication; Education; Motivational Interviewing; Students; Treatment fidelity.