Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Universal City, CA

Photo of Christina Coons - Christina Coons, LCSW   Trauma, Somatic, Addiction, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Coons, LCSW Trauma, Somatic, Addiction
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Universal City, CA 91608
Complex trauma can have a lasting impact on our daily lives. It effects our mood, health, relationships, functioning, thinking, behavior and decision making. Trauma can rob us of joy, connection and convince us that we are undeserving or unworthy of love, care and compassion. In our work together, we will unlock your innate ability to heal, grow and transcend beyond the experiences that have burdened you. You deserve to feel safe, heard, seen and supported. Therapy is an opportunity to come home to yourself, recover and reclaim your life. It would be an honor to walk along side you on that journey.
Complex trauma can have a lasting impact on our daily lives. It effects our mood, health, relationships, functioning, thinking, behavior and decision making. Trauma can rob us of joy, connection and convince us that we are undeserving or unworthy of love, care and compassion. In our work together, we will unlock your innate ability to heal, grow and transcend beyond the experiences that have burdened you. You deserve to feel safe, heard, seen and supported. Therapy is an opportunity to come home to yourself, recover and reclaim your life. It would be an honor to walk along side you on that journey.
(213) 205-3821 View (213) 205-3821
Photo of Jasmine N Gibson - Jasmine Gibson: EMDR, Anxiety, Trauma, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Anxiety, Trauma, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jasmine Gibson: EMDR, Anxiety, Trauma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Anxiety, Trauma
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Universal City, CA 91608  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping clients become their authentic self in a world that tries to control how they identify. I help my clients when it comes to anxiety, life transitions, and trauma using both a trauma-informed and EMDR approach, which allows you to better understand and heal from your past. I guide clients in identifying their strengths and incorporate mindfulness, to feel fully connected with themselves and empowered. I work with clients to process past experiences that make them feel “stuck” in order to move forward by guiding them in unlearning behaviors and habits that don’t feel healthy or connected with who they truly are.
I enjoy helping clients become their authentic self in a world that tries to control how they identify. I help my clients when it comes to anxiety, life transitions, and trauma using both a trauma-informed and EMDR approach, which allows you to better understand and heal from your past. I guide clients in identifying their strengths and incorporate mindfulness, to feel fully connected with themselves and empowered. I work with clients to process past experiences that make them feel “stuck” in order to move forward by guiding them in unlearning behaviors and habits that don’t feel healthy or connected with who they truly are.
(310) 361-4563 View (310) 361-4563
Photo of Christine Quynh Anh Nguyen, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christine Quynh Anh Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Universal City, CA 91608  (Online Only)
I love you, but I don't really get you; I hear this pretty often in the healthiest of relationships, and even more so in intercultural or interfaith ones. I know firsthand how wonderful and rewarding it is–and, at times, how painful and challenging. Maybe you’ve asked each other: “How do we connect again, now that we have kids? What’s changed and why is it affecting our sex life? Are we on the same page about my family? How important is this to you?” Being in love doesn't just take work. It takes understanding and acceptance. It takes holding each other and ourselves accountable for our own growth. Let's relearn each other.
I love you, but I don't really get you; I hear this pretty often in the healthiest of relationships, and even more so in intercultural or interfaith ones. I know firsthand how wonderful and rewarding it is–and, at times, how painful and challenging. Maybe you’ve asked each other: “How do we connect again, now that we have kids? What’s changed and why is it affecting our sex life? Are we on the same page about my family? How important is this to you?” Being in love doesn't just take work. It takes understanding and acceptance. It takes holding each other and ourselves accountable for our own growth. Let's relearn each other.
(818) 308-1529 View (818) 308-1529
Photo of Paul Carter - Paul Carter - Anxiety, ADHD, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Paul Carter - Anxiety, ADHD
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Universal City, CA 91608
My teenage clients report that I have greatly helped in reducing depression and anxiety by providing a non-judgmental space where they can explore communication challenges, self-esteem issues and work on difficulties that create a challenge in their day-to-day life. I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework, which can help teens reframe negativity, develop long-term coping skills, and be more fully present in their lives. Clients can recognize that their thoughts and emotions do not have to get in the way of taking action toward meeting their goals and making meaningful connections.
My teenage clients report that I have greatly helped in reducing depression and anxiety by providing a non-judgmental space where they can explore communication challenges, self-esteem issues and work on difficulties that create a challenge in their day-to-day life. I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework, which can help teens reframe negativity, develop long-term coping skills, and be more fully present in their lives. Clients can recognize that their thoughts and emotions do not have to get in the way of taking action toward meeting their goals and making meaningful connections.
(310) 620-1428 View (310) 620-1428

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicholas F Flickinger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas F Flickinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Narrative Therapy Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I believe that we all have the ability to heal from our past and learn to grow in the present. Sometimes life presents us with challenges that require guidance in order to change our patterns of thinking and beliefs that are making us feel trapped. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, relationships, low self-worth, body image, gender & sexuality, grief, or addiction, I would be honored to walk this path with you and find the form of therapy that suits your needs. Practice experience: Private practice, LA LGBT Center, NC State University Health Center, community mental health non-profits. *Free 15-minute phone consult bookable online.*
Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Narrative Therapy Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I believe that we all have the ability to heal from our past and learn to grow in the present. Sometimes life presents us with challenges that require guidance in order to change our patterns of thinking and beliefs that are making us feel trapped. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, relationships, low self-worth, body image, gender & sexuality, grief, or addiction, I would be honored to walk this path with you and find the form of therapy that suits your needs. Practice experience: Private practice, LA LGBT Center, NC State University Health Center, community mental health non-profits. *Free 15-minute phone consult bookable online.*
(323) 792-7487 View (323) 792-7487
Photo of Christen Willard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christen Willard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
The most common interventions I practice are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a Lincensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I take a person-centered approach to therapy, meeting my clients exactly where they are and empowering them to take the lead in their healing journey. I have witnessed my clients trade anxiety for peace, stress for healthy boundaries, and hopelessness for a sense of fulfillment in life.
The most common interventions I practice are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a Lincensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I take a person-centered approach to therapy, meeting my clients exactly where they are and empowering them to take the lead in their healing journey. I have witnessed my clients trade anxiety for peace, stress for healthy boundaries, and hopelessness for a sense of fulfillment in life.
(559) 379-5573 View (559) 379-5573
Photo of Kellie Bougard Jordan, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kellie Bougard Jordan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91601
Greetings, my name is Kellie Bougard Jordan, LPCC. I have worked with diverse clients ranging from children, adolescents, and adult populations. My focus areas of practice include depression, anxiety, addiction, familial / relationship issues, life stressors, grief and trauma-related issues, parenting, impulsivity, and self-esteem. My therapeutic approach to providing therapy combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused counseling. I believe in meeting anyone where they are in the journey of healing.
Greetings, my name is Kellie Bougard Jordan, LPCC. I have worked with diverse clients ranging from children, adolescents, and adult populations. My focus areas of practice include depression, anxiety, addiction, familial / relationship issues, life stressors, grief and trauma-related issues, parenting, impulsivity, and self-esteem. My therapeutic approach to providing therapy combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused counseling. I believe in meeting anyone where they are in the journey of healing.
(657) 256-5173 View (657) 256-5173
Photo of Nancy Phillips, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, etc.
Seeking support isn't always the easiest thing to do, and my intention is to stand beside you and empower you through your journey. I have an eclectic background in therapy training to more easily assist my clients in working through the issues at hand in the way most comfortable for them. I enjoy working with couples and families and specialize in children from 11-18, women facing a turning point or transition in their lives, folks from the LGBTQIA+ community, and individual adults. Sometimes it takes a team, and I would love to have the chance to partner with you in seeking mental wellness.
I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, etc.
Seeking support isn't always the easiest thing to do, and my intention is to stand beside you and empower you through your journey. I have an eclectic background in therapy training to more easily assist my clients in working through the issues at hand in the way most comfortable for them. I enjoy working with couples and families and specialize in children from 11-18, women facing a turning point or transition in their lives, folks from the LGBTQIA+ community, and individual adults. Sometimes it takes a team, and I would love to have the chance to partner with you in seeking mental wellness.
(619) 853-4791 View (619) 853-4791
Photo of Kayla Uggetti, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kayla Uggetti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90068
I am intensely trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (including DBT for adolescents and children), Gottman Method Level 1, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi! Ever feel like your emotions and behaviors are difficult to understand, or maybe they're just tough to manage? Or perhaps you're struggling to communicate what you're thinking or wanting in relationships with family, parents, children, friends, or co-workers? Using practical tools and proven techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy to Mindfulness, I can help you navigate the ups and downs of emotions. Together, we can work towards helping you become more in tune with yourself by understanding the "why" and "now what?" As a member of the LatinX community, I integrate inclusivity and cultural awareness into my work.
I am intensely trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (including DBT for adolescents and children), Gottman Method Level 1, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi! Ever feel like your emotions and behaviors are difficult to understand, or maybe they're just tough to manage? Or perhaps you're struggling to communicate what you're thinking or wanting in relationships with family, parents, children, friends, or co-workers? Using practical tools and proven techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy to Mindfulness, I can help you navigate the ups and downs of emotions. Together, we can work towards helping you become more in tune with yourself by understanding the "why" and "now what?" As a member of the LatinX community, I integrate inclusivity and cultural awareness into my work.
(310) 734-4345 View (310) 734-4345
Photo of Sterling Walker, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 980-8479 View (415) 980-8479
Photo of Laura Michelle Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Michelle Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Laura has additional training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Somatic Experiencing, and treatments for Complex Traumatic Stress Disorders (PRISM) and works for her community, collaborating closely with grassroots organizations in Los Angeles to enhance health equity and promote transformative justice.
Laura is a first-generation, first-born, bi-racial (Korean-Salvadorian) Licensed Clinical Social Worker and offers expert, culturally responsive care focused on recovery. In her practice she works with adults and families navigating life changes, mental health challenges, societal injustices, and those aiming to end their intergenerational trauma. With certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Enhanced Illness Management and Recovery, she specializes in addressing trauma, complex-trauma, racial trauma, and stress-related issues, as well as anxiety, depression, and grief.
Laura has additional training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Somatic Experiencing, and treatments for Complex Traumatic Stress Disorders (PRISM) and works for her community, collaborating closely with grassroots organizations in Los Angeles to enhance health equity and promote transformative justice.
Laura is a first-generation, first-born, bi-racial (Korean-Salvadorian) Licensed Clinical Social Worker and offers expert, culturally responsive care focused on recovery. In her practice she works with adults and families navigating life changes, mental health challenges, societal injustices, and those aiming to end their intergenerational trauma. With certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Enhanced Illness Management and Recovery, she specializes in addressing trauma, complex-trauma, racial trauma, and stress-related issues, as well as anxiety, depression, and grief.
(323) 765-1641 View (323) 765-1641
Photo of Nameeta Bringham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nameeta Bringham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Hello! My name is Nameeta Bringham, I also go by by nickname Nimmi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience working with children and their families, grieving adults and adolescents, anxiety disorders, and depression. I also have some experience working with pregnant women and postpartum parents. When it comes to my approach to therapy, I use motivational interviewing as I believe therapy is successful when it is client-led. Systems theory is important to me so I can understand the whole picture of where you are coming from.
Hello! My name is Nameeta Bringham, I also go by by nickname Nimmi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience working with children and their families, grieving adults and adolescents, anxiety disorders, and depression. I also have some experience working with pregnant women and postpartum parents. When it comes to my approach to therapy, I use motivational interviewing as I believe therapy is successful when it is client-led. Systems theory is important to me so I can understand the whole picture of where you are coming from.
(657) 571-3797 View (657) 571-3797
Photo of Camilla Cummings, PhD, Psychologist
Camilla Cummings
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Dr. Camilla Cummings is a licensed psychologist who aims to provide evidence-based psychotherapy within the context of an authentic, person-centered, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. She centers the inherent strength, capacity, and resilience of the people she serves and sees her task as working alongside you as you cultivate the life that you want to lead. Camilla offers expertise in providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and draws from other modalities including motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Dr. Camilla Cummings is a licensed psychologist who aims to provide evidence-based psychotherapy within the context of an authentic, person-centered, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. She centers the inherent strength, capacity, and resilience of the people she serves and sees her task as working alongside you as you cultivate the life that you want to lead. Camilla offers expertise in providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and draws from other modalities including motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
(626) 322-2349 View (626) 322-2349
Photo of Michael Beltrano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Beltrano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
Hi, my name is Michael Beltrano, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work collaboratively with clients to build on the skills that matter to them. I have experience working closely with culturally diverse clients from ages 5-65+ dealing with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, dual diagnosis, BPD, and ADHD. I utilize person-centered approaches when building rapport. Additionally, I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, Emotion Focused (EFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution Focused approaches and interventions within the therapeutic process.
Hi, my name is Michael Beltrano, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work collaboratively with clients to build on the skills that matter to them. I have experience working closely with culturally diverse clients from ages 5-65+ dealing with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, dual diagnosis, BPD, and ADHD. I utilize person-centered approaches when building rapport. Additionally, I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, Emotion Focused (EFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution Focused approaches and interventions within the therapeutic process.
(323) 991-9398 View (323) 991-9398
Photo of Haig Barsegian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Haig Barsegian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90068
Over the years, I have engaged clients from all walks of life in over 6,000 therapy sessions, primarily in the Cognitive Behavioral and Motivational Interviewing therapy protocols.
I grew up in the state of Michigan and moved to California in the 60s. I decided to become a therapist in my 20's and received my B.A. in Psychology. However, I was single, working in the airline industry, and was enjoying the travel and postings in other countries. I lived and worked in Japan for 2 years and in Singapore for 2 years. I finally decided to pursue my lifelong interest and obtained my Masters's degree in Clinical Psychology and my license as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
Over the years, I have engaged clients from all walks of life in over 6,000 therapy sessions, primarily in the Cognitive Behavioral and Motivational Interviewing therapy protocols.
I grew up in the state of Michigan and moved to California in the 60s. I decided to become a therapist in my 20's and received my B.A. in Psychology. However, I was single, working in the airline industry, and was enjoying the travel and postings in other countries. I lived and worked in Japan for 2 years and in Singapore for 2 years. I finally decided to pursue my lifelong interest and obtained my Masters's degree in Clinical Psychology and my license as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
(858) 422-3751 View (858) 422-3751
Photo of Sarah Allbright, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Allbright
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91604
have experience working with all ages of individuals as well as couples and families utilizing interventions from cognitive behavioral and acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, strength-based approaches and mindfulness practices.
Hi. My name is Sarah Allbright. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist at PATH. I strive to provide a safe space for clients and highlight strengths to help create opportunities for growth. I view the client as the expert and my ability to offer support, empathy and an unbiased perspective as key to therapy. I enjoy collaborating with client's during transition and facing life challenges as well as as treating disorders including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and Bipolar.
have experience working with all ages of individuals as well as couples and families utilizing interventions from cognitive behavioral and acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, strength-based approaches and mindfulness practices.
Hi. My name is Sarah Allbright. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist at PATH. I strive to provide a safe space for clients and highlight strengths to help create opportunities for growth. I view the client as the expert and my ability to offer support, empathy and an unbiased perspective as key to therapy. I enjoy collaborating with client's during transition and facing life challenges as well as as treating disorders including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and Bipolar.
(951) 944-1642 View (951) 944-1642
Photo of Charlene J Baca, MSW, ASW, LCSWA
Charlene J Baca
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
Treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Motivational Interviewing, and Christian Counseling.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to cope with life? Zoom right in, and I will reserve a space for you. I am prepared to listen, motivate, and help you resolve the difficult challenges in your life. Whatever struggles you are going through, I am here to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take back your life. The first step is to get to know you and your current needs so that I can help you accomplish your life goals.
Treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Motivational Interviewing, and Christian Counseling.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to cope with life? Zoom right in, and I will reserve a space for you. I am prepared to listen, motivate, and help you resolve the difficult challenges in your life. Whatever struggles you are going through, I am here to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take back your life. The first step is to get to know you and your current needs so that I can help you accomplish your life goals.
(909) 850-4676 View (909) 850-4676
Photo of Tasha Eddy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tasha Eddy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I also use a variety of tools from other theoretical approaches as supplements to enhance treatment, including Solution-focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Systemic Therapy.
I specialize in working with adults whom are struggling with an array of mental health needs and relational impairments related to trauma, anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, addiction, anger/aggression, interpersonal conflict, life transitions, self-esteem, and motivation. I am committed to providing my clients with a safe space to explore their inner experience(s) and the impact it has on their current functioning and overall well-being.
I also use a variety of tools from other theoretical approaches as supplements to enhance treatment, including Solution-focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Systemic Therapy.
I specialize in working with adults whom are struggling with an array of mental health needs and relational impairments related to trauma, anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, addiction, anger/aggression, interpersonal conflict, life transitions, self-esteem, and motivation. I am committed to providing my clients with a safe space to explore their inner experience(s) and the impact it has on their current functioning and overall well-being.
(424) 404-6667 View (424) 404-6667
Photo of Jessica Vazquez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Vazquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I am certified and trained in evidence-based practices such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, trauma focused CBT, in addition to other.
Feelings, feelings, feelings. They can be complex painful, rewarding, and sometimes, confusing. Sometimes those feelings and emotions consume us, other times we avoid them either way; they affect us. In this space, I hope to help guide your understanding of what you are experiencing. To acknowledge triggers, and normalize some of your behaviors without excusing them. In all, my goal as a therapist is to create an environment where you feel listened too and important .
I am certified and trained in evidence-based practices such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, trauma focused CBT, in addition to other.
Feelings, feelings, feelings. They can be complex painful, rewarding, and sometimes, confusing. Sometimes those feelings and emotions consume us, other times we avoid them either way; they affect us. In this space, I hope to help guide your understanding of what you are experiencing. To acknowledge triggers, and normalize some of your behaviors without excusing them. In all, my goal as a therapist is to create an environment where you feel listened too and important .
(213) 568-1774 View (213) 568-1774
Photo of Jackie Benavente, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jackie Benavente
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91103  (Online Only)
I'm trained in Solution-Focused Therapy to assist in constructing solutions rather than dwelling on problems, Motivational Interviewing for addiction support or for those who are stuck and struggling with motivation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat depression, anxiety, and ADHD symptoms, and EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), for PTSD.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I believe that change is facilitated by nurturing both your mental and physical health. As your therapist I teach you how to better understand, and improve your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, while also stressing the importance of mind to body connection through movement. I assist clients navigating the following symptoms: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use addiction, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, and ADHD.
I'm trained in Solution-Focused Therapy to assist in constructing solutions rather than dwelling on problems, Motivational Interviewing for addiction support or for those who are stuck and struggling with motivation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat depression, anxiety, and ADHD symptoms, and EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), for PTSD.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I believe that change is facilitated by nurturing both your mental and physical health. As your therapist I teach you how to better understand, and improve your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, while also stressing the importance of mind to body connection through movement. I assist clients navigating the following symptoms: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use addiction, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, and ADHD.
(818) 740-3747 View (818) 740-3747

See more therapy options for Universal City

Motivational Interviewing Therapists

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, empathizes, 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 behaviors 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 behavior.