This study considers the application and effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing (MI) as an intervention strategy for secondary school pupils experiencing disaffection. Using a case study example, the process of intervention and the use of specific techniques from other psychological approaches are described. Results identify issues concerning the process of MI and discuss implications of MI work for the educational practitioner. In conclusion, a positive evaluation of the general usefulness of the model within current educational psychology practice is made, highlighting possibilities to evaluate applications of MI interventions involving psychologists with younger pupils or teachers and parents. (Contains 2 figures and 1 table.)