Assessing treatment fidelity in a cultural adaptation of motivational interviewing

The efficacy of motivational interviewing (MI) for addictions is well documented. Grounding MI in social/cultural priorities may enhance treatment response. We evaluate the method of assessing competence using the motivational interviewing treatment integrity system (MITI) for standard MI and culturally adapted MI (CAMI) delivered to Latino heavy drinkers. Twenty audiotapes (MI, n = 10; CAMI, n = 10) were MITI coded by two raters unaware of treatment assignment. Inter-rater reliabilities were excellent (.78-.99) except for CAMI complex reflections, global ratings of empathy, and MI spirit. The MITI reliably evaluates MI and CAMI treatment fidelity. Future research should investigate lower reliabilities for MI global and complex reflections cross-culturally.