Abstract: The present paper draws on experiences and insights gained by a group of psychiatric nurse practice development facilitators whilst working with consumers, carers, clinicians and managers in the context of a practice development programme in a large metropolitan psychiatric hospital. The paper describes how the practice development facilitators were able to adapt techniques of motivational interviewing, commonly used in drug and alcohol treatment services, to help motivate change in an aged care setting. The lessons embedded within this experience are that people do want change, and that sustained change requires ownership and support. Practice development facilitators can assist in this process though the use of principles and strategies of motivational interviewing, which include increasing awareness of the need for change, supporting self-efficacy and managing resistance to change.