 Outcomes in type 2 diabetes are largely achieved by self-management efforts by individuals living with diabetes. Diabetes self-management is typically provided using the principles of adult education. Current evidence suggests that standard educational interventions are suboptimal. This study evaluates a novel approach to diabetes self-management using dialogue tools based on empowerment and motivational communication methods. The approach evaluated in this study is called EMMA: empowerment, motivation and medical adherence. Participants will be randomized to EMMA and treatment as usual, treated for a period of 4 months and evaluated over a period of 12 months. 