Motivational Interviewing Counselling in Mawson Lakes, SA
![Photo of Jason Moore, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4605d68f-053a-46ea-98a2-0f054705a32b/1/320x400.jpeg)
My passion is helping people reduce stress, anxiety and depression and reconnect with their core values to ensure they are living their best life. I specialise in anxiety & stress management, depression Support, ADHD Coaching & Support and have NDIS & Private Health Options.
My passion is helping people reduce stress, anxiety and depression and reconnect with their core values to ensure they are living their best life. I specialise in anxiety & stress management, depression Support, ADHD Coaching & Support and have NDIS & Private Health Options.
![Photo of Michael John Larner - Edge Counselling and Psychotherapy Adelaide, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6855864-1af3-4183-804b-6a9c5a6e1fa6/1/320x400.jpeg)
We specialise in helping individuals navigate through challenging experiences such as anxiety, stress, family and social concerns, depression, identity issues, bullying, and trauma. I believe that every person is inherently capable and possesses the potential for growth and success. Intelligence, personality, and character are not fixed—they evolve continuously, and each person’s true potential is limitless. The counselling relationship is unique; it provides a special way of ‘being with’ someone to support meaningful change, helping them feel better and discover new perspectives and behaviours.
We specialise in helping individuals navigate through challenging experiences such as anxiety, stress, family and social concerns, depression, identity issues, bullying, and trauma. I believe that every person is inherently capable and possesses the potential for growth and success. Intelligence, personality, and character are not fixed—they evolve continuously, and each person’s true potential is limitless. The counselling relationship is unique; it provides a special way of ‘being with’ someone to support meaningful change, helping them feel better and discover new perspectives and behaviours.
![Photo of Belinda Wilde, MA, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fec864f2-2345-4f3e-8d53-06ea967ee54b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an energetic, enthusiastic, reliable and mature individual with a wealth of life experience . With a Bachelor Degree in Psychological Science and a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy, My experience, training and warm empathic nature enables me to offer effective, confidential, individualised counselling care. I provide a warm space in which individuals and couples can feel safe, heard, valued and supported. My passion is assisting you in building your own strengths, resilience and capabilities in order to support your growth, independence and autonomy. I offer the convenience of evening and weekend sessions
I am an energetic, enthusiastic, reliable and mature individual with a wealth of life experience . With a Bachelor Degree in Psychological Science and a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy, My experience, training and warm empathic nature enables me to offer effective, confidential, individualised counselling care. I provide a warm space in which individuals and couples can feel safe, heard, valued and supported. My passion is assisting you in building your own strengths, resilience and capabilities in order to support your growth, independence and autonomy. I offer the convenience of evening and weekend sessions
![Photo of Sandra Putek - Sandra Putek - Return To You Counselling](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a5d2f2b-daea-45ac-b690-fddeb00a8bdf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you unhappy, tired, and under constant stress? Do you find yourself taking on more than you can handle and saying yes when you really mean no? Have you not been feeling like yourself lately? Know it does not have to be this way. It's possible to live a life that feels so good, so fulfilling, a life where you feel confident and in control. Are you ready to learn what's preventing you from living the life you want? It’s time to return to you.
Are you unhappy, tired, and under constant stress? Do you find yourself taking on more than you can handle and saying yes when you really mean no? Have you not been feeling like yourself lately? Know it does not have to be this way. It's possible to live a life that feels so good, so fulfilling, a life where you feel confident and in control. Are you ready to learn what's preventing you from living the life you want? It’s time to return to you.
![Photo of Alicja Weidner - H-L Therapy, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c4c1d33-ac4b-41d0-8db0-56a69c9d18c3/1/320x400.png)
H-L Therapy offers a wide range of person centered, psychosocial therapy services, including counselling, therapeutic skill development, mindfulness, relaxation therapy, clinical hypnotherapy and artistic exploration. All H-L Therapy staff are DHS and Police cleared, qualified allied health clinicians. Our services are customised to specific situations and our mission is to support people in being happy and confident. NDIS, Medicare and Private Health Insurance rebates are available. We are compassionate, responsive and offer valuable, convenient support services -because all people matter.
H-L Therapy offers a wide range of person centered, psychosocial therapy services, including counselling, therapeutic skill development, mindfulness, relaxation therapy, clinical hypnotherapy and artistic exploration. All H-L Therapy staff are DHS and Police cleared, qualified allied health clinicians. Our services are customised to specific situations and our mission is to support people in being happy and confident. NDIS, Medicare and Private Health Insurance rebates are available. We are compassionate, responsive and offer valuable, convenient support services -because all people matter.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Isabella Seddon, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68462154-5fd2-41f2-b0af-c6df34923631/2/320x400.png)
Isabella has experience with various therapeutic models including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Motivational interviewing which will be carefully tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances.
Isabella is an Australian based counsellor who has completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours). She adopts a warm and empathetic approach to therapy and mainly works to address anxiety-related issues with clients of all ages. This includes health anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, panic attacks and generalised anxiety. She also can help with self-esteem issues, poor body-image, relationship difficulties and mood-related issues.
Isabella has experience with various therapeutic models including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Motivational interviewing which will be carefully tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances.
Isabella is an Australian based counsellor who has completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours). She adopts a warm and empathetic approach to therapy and mainly works to address anxiety-related issues with clients of all ages. This includes health anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, panic attacks and generalised anxiety. She also can help with self-esteem issues, poor body-image, relationship difficulties and mood-related issues.
![Photo of Dayle Johnson, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adf18d55-0bcd-406d-88bc-6208ac370d98/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience using a range of therapeutic approaches and assessments such as: Acceptance and Commitment (ACT); Cognitive Behavioural (CBT) Dialectical (DBT); Motivational Interviewing (MI); Strength-Based approaches; Wechsler cognitive (IQ) and memory assessments (WISC, WAIS, WMS) and other Psychological Testing and Evaluation.
… Dayle currently has no waitlist… My name is Dayle and I believe that therapy needs to be flexible and adapted to your particular situation, background, potential, and that treatment has to resonate with you and your needs. My approach to therapy is to remain honest, respectful and ensure that you have a safe space to feel comfortable. I only deliver individual sessions in a Telehealth format (unless an assessment is required). The reason I opted for a Telehealth only service was to allow responsive care during COVID-19 for clients whose symptoms were made worse by current circumstances.
I have experience using a range of therapeutic approaches and assessments such as: Acceptance and Commitment (ACT); Cognitive Behavioural (CBT) Dialectical (DBT); Motivational Interviewing (MI); Strength-Based approaches; Wechsler cognitive (IQ) and memory assessments (WISC, WAIS, WMS) and other Psychological Testing and Evaluation.
… Dayle currently has no waitlist… My name is Dayle and I believe that therapy needs to be flexible and adapted to your particular situation, background, potential, and that treatment has to resonate with you and your needs. My approach to therapy is to remain honest, respectful and ensure that you have a safe space to feel comfortable. I only deliver individual sessions in a Telehealth format (unless an assessment is required). The reason I opted for a Telehealth only service was to allow responsive care during COVID-19 for clients whose symptoms were made worse by current circumstances.
![Photo of Louise Rachele Melhem - Louise Therapy for Her , MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/126139e8-1e92-4f97-abdd-ceef2addcc6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of recommended and evidence-based therapies including, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am considered to be kind, patient, caring, compassionate, and supportive. I am a qualified registered mental health nurse, with over 10 years of experience working as a nurse. I have worked with people living with mild to complex mental health disorders. My specialty includes supporting people through relationship difficulties, personality disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. I am passionate about mental health and personal growth. I love educating and empowering others and want to work through any obstacle or challenge in your life. I focus on helping you achieve your goals and break down any barriers.
I use a variety of recommended and evidence-based therapies including, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am considered to be kind, patient, caring, compassionate, and supportive. I am a qualified registered mental health nurse, with over 10 years of experience working as a nurse. I have worked with people living with mild to complex mental health disorders. My specialty includes supporting people through relationship difficulties, personality disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. I am passionate about mental health and personal growth. I love educating and empowering others and want to work through any obstacle or challenge in your life. I focus on helping you achieve your goals and break down any barriers.
![Photo of Francesco Poci - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8afea93a-23b2-4424-ba8b-d06b508cab3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francesco Poci - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) plus mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI) and positive Psychology orientations are used to assist clients.
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) plus mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI) and positive Psychology orientations are used to assist clients.
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
![Photo of Hannah Orpin, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05e24eaa-ee00-4389-a8fc-651e8513d57a/1/320x400.png)
Hannah provides tailored advice and evidence-based interventions which draw upon techniques from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Client-Centred Counselling and Motivational Interviewing.
Hannah is both Australian and New Zealand Māori psychologist (Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Kahungunu). After moving from New Zealand, Hannah spent a significant portion of her career working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Hannah's work across both countries enables her to provide a culturally safe space for effective and enjoyable therapy. Hannah works with adolescents and adults across a range of issues, and have a special interest in post traumatic stress disorder, abuse, borderline personality disorder, unexplained medical symptoms, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
Hannah provides tailored advice and evidence-based interventions which draw upon techniques from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Client-Centred Counselling and Motivational Interviewing.
Hannah is both Australian and New Zealand Māori psychologist (Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Kahungunu). After moving from New Zealand, Hannah spent a significant portion of her career working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Hannah's work across both countries enables her to provide a culturally safe space for effective and enjoyable therapy. Hannah works with adolescents and adults across a range of issues, and have a special interest in post traumatic stress disorder, abuse, borderline personality disorder, unexplained medical symptoms, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
![Photo of Lia Lawton, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38eb0028-afb8-4c39-9b26-d0de4b1661cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Using evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Strengths-based approaches, sensate focus, and motivational interviewing, I assist clients in achieving their goals.
As a registered psychologist and psychosexual therapist specialising in Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for adolescents and adults, I am passionate about supporting individuals and couples in navigating the complexities of the mind, relationships, and sexuality. I strive to help clients become their most authentic selves, fostering self-connection and healing from trauma. My therapeutic approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centred, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and desires.
Using evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Strengths-based approaches, sensate focus, and motivational interviewing, I assist clients in achieving their goals.
As a registered psychologist and psychosexual therapist specialising in Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for adolescents and adults, I am passionate about supporting individuals and couples in navigating the complexities of the mind, relationships, and sexuality. I strive to help clients become their most authentic selves, fostering self-connection and healing from trauma. My therapeutic approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centred, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and desires.
![Photo of Hannah Kayla Le Leu, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd2493a4-f1f7-4834-abea-222f5f932d7c/2/320x400.png)
Hannah Kayla Le Leu
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manningham, SA 5086 (Online Only)
I work with children, teens and adults! I am trained in: Schema Therapy (ST), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy (PT).
I am the founder of Talk it Through Psychology which is 100% telehealth. I am neurodivergent and operate from a neuro-affirming framework, meaning that I understand the importance of tailoring all therapies and strategies to work for different brain types. I absolutely love working with people’s strengths and passions and being able to connect with clients through shared passions, which we can also incorporate into therapy! I can help you with: depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, OCD and co-occurring mental health struggles from being neurodivergent (such as autistic burnout). I also offer affirming autism and ADHD assessments.
I work with children, teens and adults! I am trained in: Schema Therapy (ST), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy (PT).
I am the founder of Talk it Through Psychology which is 100% telehealth. I am neurodivergent and operate from a neuro-affirming framework, meaning that I understand the importance of tailoring all therapies and strategies to work for different brain types. I absolutely love working with people’s strengths and passions and being able to connect with clients through shared passions, which we can also incorporate into therapy! I can help you with: depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, OCD and co-occurring mental health struggles from being neurodivergent (such as autistic burnout). I also offer affirming autism and ADHD assessments.
![Photo of Li Lian Koh, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b08135e4-04f1-42ff-ac91-4c01d85f41e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Li Lian Koh
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000 (Online Only)
Li Lian utilises a client-focused and strengths-based approach to therapy, and draws upon a range of evidenced-based strategies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
Li Lian utilises a client-focused and strengths-based approach to therapy, and draws upon a range of evidenced-based strategies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
![Photo of Tayla Gardner, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bff997e6-1565-4011-afe9-f38ac5446530/1/320x400.jpeg)
The modalities that form my style include Schema, Transactional Analysis, Existential, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centred and Mindfulness.
I offer tele-health services for clients across Australia. My ideal client wants to be resilient in the face of life’s inevitable challenges, heal emotional wounds, invest in their relationships, develop their self-awareness, break free from self limiting beliefs, make peace with their past and as a result, consciously create a more meaningful and authentic life.
The modalities that form my style include Schema, Transactional Analysis, Existential, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centred and Mindfulness.
I offer tele-health services for clients across Australia. My ideal client wants to be resilient in the face of life’s inevitable challenges, heal emotional wounds, invest in their relationships, develop their self-awareness, break free from self limiting beliefs, make peace with their past and as a result, consciously create a more meaningful and authentic life.
![Photo of Scott O'Loughlin, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1be79562-caee-4d50-b873-54633fb48c56/3/320x400.jpeg)
Scott O'Loughlin
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Waitlist for new clients
Treatment offered: Acceptance and Commitment (ACT); Cognitive Behavioural (CBT); Dialectical Behaviour (DBT); EMDR; Schema Therapy; Trauma Focused; Motivational Interviewing; Positive Psychology; Compassion Focused; Strength-Based.
Scott is a Clinical Psychologist who creates a warm, friendly, and supportive environment where his clients can feel comfortable and understood. Your story matters - and being aware of that, Scott provides a safe and non-judgemental space to share that story. He works with people of all ages and backgrounds, and is especially passionate about early intervention with young people and those new to therapy. He has a wealth of experience in research and practice, and he uses evidence-based approaches to help his clients overcome their challenges and achieve their goals.
Treatment offered: Acceptance and Commitment (ACT); Cognitive Behavioural (CBT); Dialectical Behaviour (DBT); EMDR; Schema Therapy; Trauma Focused; Motivational Interviewing; Positive Psychology; Compassion Focused; Strength-Based.
Scott is a Clinical Psychologist who creates a warm, friendly, and supportive environment where his clients can feel comfortable and understood. Your story matters - and being aware of that, Scott provides a safe and non-judgemental space to share that story. He works with people of all ages and backgrounds, and is especially passionate about early intervention with young people and those new to therapy. He has a wealth of experience in research and practice, and he uses evidence-based approaches to help his clients overcome their challenges and achieve their goals.
![Photo of Matthew Wade, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab3c24b2-daa3-4dc1-9d84-6c8d4d8f2a22/1/320x400.png)
Matthew Wade
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000 (Online Only)
Matthew employs evidence-based treatments tailored to client needs, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and schema therapy.
Matthew is a clinical psychologist who offers therapy via video call for clients age twelve and up. He takes a compassionate, pragmatic, and evidence-based approach to treatment. Matthew specialises in treatment of anxiety, phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, and PTSD. He also has extensive experience working with ADHD, depression, anger, grief, insomnia, persistent pain, addiction, and personality disorder.
Matthew employs evidence-based treatments tailored to client needs, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and schema therapy.
Matthew is a clinical psychologist who offers therapy via video call for clients age twelve and up. He takes a compassionate, pragmatic, and evidence-based approach to treatment. Matthew specialises in treatment of anxiety, phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, and PTSD. He also has extensive experience working with ADHD, depression, anger, grief, insomnia, persistent pain, addiction, and personality disorder.
![Photo of Irina McEwin - Talk to Irina, AASW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b58d4f10-e510-415f-a459-66e1a63f234f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide counselling and psychotherapy assisting and helping people to manage with such issues as stress, anxiety, depression, professional and personal burnout, problems due to experiencing childhood trauma. I’m keen to help people and possess the essential experience, knowledge and skills that are needed.
I provide counselling and psychotherapy assisting and helping people to manage with such issues as stress, anxiety, depression, professional and personal burnout, problems due to experiencing childhood trauma. I’m keen to help people and possess the essential experience, knowledge and skills that are needed.
![Photo of Violeta Blengio, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23366116-837f-4ecc-ab8d-7e2f1e1a4a17/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone eager to understand themselves better, seeking growth and positive change. They may face issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles. They need a safe space to express themselves, validation, empathy, and practical coping strategies. Their goals include personal growth, healthier relationships, and greater self-acceptance. Ultimately, they seek happiness, authenticity, and meaning through self-discovery and improvement.
My ideal client is someone eager to understand themselves better, seeking growth and positive change. They may face issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles. They need a safe space to express themselves, validation, empathy, and practical coping strategies. Their goals include personal growth, healthier relationships, and greater self-acceptance. Ultimately, they seek happiness, authenticity, and meaning through self-discovery and improvement.
![Photo of Shuktika Bose, MPsych, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39d94295-3338-4fc3-971b-952140ee7ea4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! My name is Shuktika, and I'm a Clinical Psychologist who supports Australians through life's ups and downs via Telehealth. I'm also an evidence-based researcher and tertiary educator. My main areas of clinical interest are goal setting and habits, assertiveness and communication, anxiety management, and the psychology of money. I have a flexible therapeutic style that draws from several major theoretical approaches to psychotherapy.
Hi there! My name is Shuktika, and I'm a Clinical Psychologist who supports Australians through life's ups and downs via Telehealth. I'm also an evidence-based researcher and tertiary educator. My main areas of clinical interest are goal setting and habits, assertiveness and communication, anxiety management, and the psychology of money. I have a flexible therapeutic style that draws from several major theoretical approaches to psychotherapy.
See more therapy options for Mawson Lakes
Nearby Motivational Interviewing Counsellors Searches for Mawson Lakes
- Adelaide
- Campbelltown
- Elizabeth
- Magill
- Modbury
- North Adelaide
- Norwood
- Port Adelaide
- Prospect
- Stepney
- Walkerville
- Woodville
Motivational Interviewing Counsellors
How does motivational interviewing work?
Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathises, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.
Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?
Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviours in children.
How long does motivational interviewing last?
Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.
What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?
In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behaviour.