"Motivational interviewing," as developed by Miller and Van Bilson, emphasizes personal choice regarding future heroin use. Treatment goals are negotiated with the client based on data and preference. Controlled heroin use is a possible treatment goal, although it is not optimal for all. The client is viewed as capable of controlling and choosing behaviors, and the interviewer focuses on eliciting the client's own statement of concern regarding heroin use. Denial and lying are viewed as an interpersonal behavior pattern influenced by the interviewer's behavior. Lies and denial are met with reflections. Labels are de-emphasized, and objective data of impairment are presented in a low-key manner, without imposing conclusions on the client. Motivation for change arises when the client views drugtaking as incompatible with his/her self-concept. In assessing the client's motivation for change, the program uses the six stages of change identified by Prochaska and DiClemente: precontemplation, contemplation, decision, active change, maintenance, and relapse. 8 footnotes, 1 figure.