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Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Virtual Agent for Real-Time Motivational Interviewing by Integrating Adaptive Nonverbal Behavior and Language Models
Published on: December 23, 2025
The influence of client behavior during motivational interviewing on marijuana treatment outcome
Denise Walker1, Robert Stephens2, Jared Rowland2
1University of Washington, School of Social Work, Innovative Programs Research Group, 909 NE 43rd St, Suite 304, Seattle, WA, 98105-6020, United States.
Abstract:
Psychotherapy process research continues to be important in identifying within session client and therapist behaviors related to outcome. Motivational Interviewing (MI) assumes that the type of client language elicited within session is important. Client behavior was coded from 61 MI sessions with marijuana dependent adults. Sessions were coded for client language using the Client Language and Commitment Scale. Client statements indicating desire and reasons for change were significantly predictive of marijuana treatment outcome through the 34-month follow-up above and beyond baseline levels of marijuana use or motivation for change. Commitment language was not associated with outcomes. These findings suggest specific types of client language statements predict marijuana treatment outcome and are durable to a 34-month follow-up.
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