OARS Motivational Interviewing

OARS Motivational Interviewing

Learn how to use the OARS Motivational Interviewing approach to connect with your patients and help them achieve their goals.

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By Priya Singh on Jun 16, 2025.

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Commonly asked questions

OARS stands for open-questioning, affirming, reflecting, and summarizing. These are the four core skills of Motivational Interviewing that a practitioner must master to effectively engage with clients and assist them in making positive changes.

OARS Motivational Interviewing is a popular approach practitioners use in various fields, such as healthcare, social work, psychology, and counseling.

OARS Motivational Interviewing relies heavily on the practitioner’s ability to build a trusting relationship with the client. If this is not achieved, then there is a risk that the client will not be comfortable sharing personal thoughts and feelings, which can ultimately hinder their treatment progress.