AMI Scale (Acceptance/Motivation Inquiry)

 

 

A Tool for Mapping Readiness and Resistance in the Therapeutic Journey

 

Every person enters therapy with a unique level of motivation to grow and acceptance of where they currently are. The AMI Scale is a 30-question self-assessment designed to help clients and clinicians understand that starting point—so that therapy can meet you where you actually are.

 

As a therapist and researcher, I created this tool to enhance how we personalize treatment. By mapping individuals across two core dimensions—motivation and acceptance—we can better choose the therapeutic approach, adjust the tone of sessions, and understand blocks or breakthroughs when they arise.

 

The results of the AMI Scale place individuals into one of four quadrants:

 

• The Seeker: High motivation and high acceptance

• The Skeptic: High motivation, low acceptance

• The Curmudgeon: Low motivation, high acceptance

• The Unaccountable: Low motivation and low acceptance

 

These profiles aren’t labels—they’re invitations. Invitations to explore, understand, and grow with more clarity and self-awareness.

 

 

📘 Learn More About the AMI Framework

 

🔹 Introducing the AMI Scale: A New Tool for Understanding Motivation and Acceptance in Mental Health

An overview of how the scale works and the theory behind the four quadrants.

 

🔹 Reframing Mental Health Therapy: The Integral Role of Motivation and Acceptance

A deeper dive into how these two constructs shape therapeutic engagement and change.

 

🔹 Getting In(to) Therapy (forthcoming book)

Where this theory is fully integrated into a holistic model for clinicians and clients alike.

 

 

📝 Take the 30-Question AMI Scale

 

Begin the assessment below. 

 

This isn’t just a quiz—it’s a map of your readiness. A way to bring honesty, structure, and curiosity into the therapeutic process, whether you’re just beginning or deepening your work.