While many students in need of school-based psychological services have skill deficits that interfere with their academic and social functioning, others are unsuccessful because they lack motivation. Lack of motivation can also be a barrier to achieving positive outcomes for the child through teacher and parent consultation. Throughout one's lifetime, motivation is a key ingredient for successful functioning and goal attainment. This article describes the use of motivational interviewing strategies and programs in schools, as well as the application of motivational interviewing-based strategies in educational settings.