“Smith has written a tour de force that combines compassion and sophisticated clinical wisdom with a review of relevant scholarship, and points to the way to future research. Rich clinical examples illustrate each concept, and summary tables consolidate the main points of each chapter. Worksheets and exercises give the reader hands-on practice throughout the book. While practicing clinicians will be particularly drawn to this book, graduate students in clinical training will find it a thoughtful introduction to MI and the unique challenges of treating families in distress. The clear and easy writing makes the book a pleasure to read.”

—Barbara S. McCrady, PhD, Distinguished Professor Emerita, Department of Psychology and Center on Alcohol, Substance use, And Addictions, University of New Mexico


“This timely and useful book provides valuable insights on how MI principles and practices can be integrated with family treatment approaches. Drawing on both empirical evidence and practice experience, Smith clearly demonstrates ways that MI skills (such as reflections) can be combined with family techniques (such as pivoting) to build rapport, resolve ambivalence, and enhance motivation for change. This book can be readily used in foundation and advanced practice courses for graduate students, and is well worth reading for practitioners who want to improve their clinical work with families.”

—Allen Zweben, PhD, LCSW, Columbia University School of Social Work (Emeritus); member, Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers


“This outstanding addition to the literature brings MI into the family-centered care specialty. For those new to MI, the book outlines the core elements of MI and deftly illustrates how they are used in family-centered work. For experienced MI practitioners, the book offers an integrative approach to engagement, motivation, and change mechanisms in the context of family processes. All practitioners interested in working with families will find this accessible clinical guide a 'must have.'”

—Howard Liddle, EdD, ABPP, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine


“This book is a joy to read. Smith skillfully describes MI with families while vividly capturing the 'music' of MI conversations. He provides clear guidance on helping families face challenges, detailing what to say and how to say it in a way that honors reluctance while inviting change. Smith demonstrates how MI processes can be seamlessly integrated across a range of models of family work. Practical examples show how practitioners can skillfully pivot between individual and family levels to evoke meaningful and sustainable change, without pressuring the family or singling out any one individual as the target for change.”

—Christopher C. Wagner, PhD, College of Health Professions, Virginia Commonwealth University; member, Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers