Table 1.

Motivational interviewing session timing, content, and motivational focus.

Session	Timing	Content	Motivational Focus
1	After randomization and before group sessions start	Elicit primary motivators for seeking weight loss treatment, expected outcomes from weight loss, and behavior changes the participant is considering	Evoke change talk focused on selected self-monitoring strategy
2	Week 5 of group program (after 5th group session)	Review objective data on the program engagement (ie, attendance at group chat sessions, submission of self-monitoring records) and perceptions about progress toward goals	Evoke change talk focused on weight control strategies that have been helpful in making progress toward goals and strategies that the participant would like to add to improve weight loss
3	Week 18 of group program (6 weeks before transition to monthly group sessions)	Take stock of progress while considering the good and not-so-good aspects of moving to less frequent meetings; explore whether/how motivators for weight loss have shifted and any plans for maximizing remaining weekly group sessions	Evoke change talk surrounding behavioral goals to maximize desired progress prior to transition to monthly group sessions
4	Week 31 of group program (6 weeks after the transition to monthly sessions)	Reflect on the impact of transition on weight management behaviors, by identifying self-management successes and challenges during this phase and refocusing, if necessary	Evoke change talk about weight control strategies using and/or considering to get back on track toward personal goals
5	Week 44 of group program	Address weight maintenance by focusing on strategies used or considering to maintain commitment to goals and/or to lifestyle behaviors, with focus on the long term after program structure ends	Evoke change talk regarding strategies for sustaining weight loss, re-engaging in weight loss efforts, and/or to reverse weight regain
6	Week 57 of group program	Review accomplishments of which the participant is most proud and identify goals for the final months of program	Evoke change talk regarding strategies for weight maintenance