Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Saint Petersburg, FL
Kimela Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710 (Online Only)
I provide a combination of client focused counseling techniques like Motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy and Solution Oriented Brief therapy.
Life is a journey and we all need to reach out for help at times. I have been helping clients for over 20 years move forward through depression, stress, anxiety, grief, adjusting to life transitions and coping with chronic illness. I understand that life gets tough and sometimes we get stuck. I provide honest and genuine counseling with true compassion for my clients. I enjoy sharing practical tools and skills to really help clients reach their goals and empower them to move forward.
I provide a combination of client focused counseling techniques like Motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy and Solution Oriented Brief therapy.
Life is a journey and we all need to reach out for help at times. I have been helping clients for over 20 years move forward through depression, stress, anxiety, grief, adjusting to life transitions and coping with chronic illness. I understand that life gets tough and sometimes we get stuck. I provide honest and genuine counseling with true compassion for my clients. I enjoy sharing practical tools and skills to really help clients reach their goals and empower them to move forward.
Cynthia Carnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33715 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 30 years of experience in mental health. I received a Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University, and have been a member of the National Association of Social Workers since 1993. I work with clients from the later teen years through seniors. I use a variety of techniques, including Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Intentional Interviewing. I believe that every person can affect the change they are seeking in their life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 30 years of experience in mental health. I received a Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University, and have been a member of the National Association of Social Workers since 1993. I work with clients from the later teen years through seniors. I use a variety of techniques, including Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Intentional Interviewing. I believe that every person can affect the change they are seeking in their life.
I work with children, teens, and families facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, attention difficulties, social deficits, and executive functioning issues. My approach is personalized for each individual, utilizing cognitive-behavioral strategies, positive psychology, and motivational interviewing. I focus on helping children and adolescents manage their symptoms and adapt to both family and school settings. By building on their strengths, I aim to provide practical tools and skills they can apply in their everyday lives, promoting growth and resilience.
I work with children, teens, and families facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, attention difficulties, social deficits, and executive functioning issues. My approach is personalized for each individual, utilizing cognitive-behavioral strategies, positive psychology, and motivational interviewing. I focus on helping children and adolescents manage their symptoms and adapt to both family and school settings. By building on their strengths, I aim to provide practical tools and skills they can apply in their everyday lives, promoting growth and resilience.
I employ mindfulness, gestalt, psychodynamic, and motivational interviewing with a focus on boundaries, increasing self-awareness, self-expression, and trauma healing.
Overwhelmed with stress/emotion? Afraid of conflict from expressing yourself openly? Or feeling misunderstood and/or not "fitting in" to your community the way that's expected? Between our childhood/relationship/traumatic experiences and the cultural pressures we face, it's no wonder so many of us don't feel like we're "good enough" or feel "trapped" often. Living for other peoples' expectations over our own. Whether you struggle with effectively setting boundaries, anxiety about expressing yourself freely, or struggle with stress relief; let's explore options and discuss tools to help you feel more free and in control of your life.
I employ mindfulness, gestalt, psychodynamic, and motivational interviewing with a focus on boundaries, increasing self-awareness, self-expression, and trauma healing.
Overwhelmed with stress/emotion? Afraid of conflict from expressing yourself openly? Or feeling misunderstood and/or not "fitting in" to your community the way that's expected? Between our childhood/relationship/traumatic experiences and the cultural pressures we face, it's no wonder so many of us don't feel like we're "good enough" or feel "trapped" often. Living for other peoples' expectations over our own. Whether you struggle with effectively setting boundaries, anxiety about expressing yourself freely, or struggle with stress relief; let's explore options and discuss tools to help you feel more free and in control of your life.
Some of the modalities that I frequently utilize are: Solution- Focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-education, Systems Theory, Emotion Focused Therapy, Behavioral Modification, Skills training and Motivational interviewing/coaching.
I have worked as a Mental Health Therapist for 30 years and I love my work as much today as the day I started. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addictions Professional. I am honored to join people where they are at on their journey. I focus on positive goals for getting back on track or even transformation. As I realize the courage it takes to come to therapy, I focus on the patient/therapist relationship. There must first be an experience of safety and trust. Then, of course, the therapeutic work will follow. I utilize a warm, relaxed style with fierce reflection or gentle support as needed.
Some of the modalities that I frequently utilize are: Solution- Focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-education, Systems Theory, Emotion Focused Therapy, Behavioral Modification, Skills training and Motivational interviewing/coaching.
I have worked as a Mental Health Therapist for 30 years and I love my work as much today as the day I started. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addictions Professional. I am honored to join people where they are at on their journey. I focus on positive goals for getting back on track or even transformation. As I realize the courage it takes to come to therapy, I focus on the patient/therapist relationship. There must first be an experience of safety and trust. Then, of course, the therapeutic work will follow. I utilize a warm, relaxed style with fierce reflection or gentle support as needed.
Meagen Fergen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 (Online Only)
Meagan incorporates elements from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Meagan is a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about helping individuals overcome personal challenges to embody stronger confidence, self-worth, and quality of life. She has worked in case management for child welfare & intensive outpatient programs for adolescents with severe & persistent mental health issues. She has worked in programs that reunite parents with children following foster care placements. In this setting, she has practiced family and individual counseling with survivors of childhood trauma, sexual/physical abuse, domestic violence, self-harm, and substance abuse.
Meagan incorporates elements from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Meagan is a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about helping individuals overcome personal challenges to embody stronger confidence, self-worth, and quality of life. She has worked in case management for child welfare & intensive outpatient programs for adolescents with severe & persistent mental health issues. She has worked in programs that reunite parents with children following foster care placements. In this setting, she has practiced family and individual counseling with survivors of childhood trauma, sexual/physical abuse, domestic violence, self-harm, and substance abuse.
Eric Siegel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 (Online Only)
Using motivational interviewing, he helps clients set clear goals, build on their strengths, and learn new coping strategies in a safe environment.
Are you an individual or couple dealing with substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, chronic illness, workplace stress, coping hurdles, role changes, or relationship conflicts? Let me introduce you to Eric Siegel, a professional counselor licensed in Florida and Texas. Eric incorporates a systemic approach grounded in evidence-based treatment modalities to validate your feelings, empower your independence and help you develop resilience in the face of life's challenges.
Using motivational interviewing, he helps clients set clear goals, build on their strengths, and learn new coping strategies in a safe environment.
Are you an individual or couple dealing with substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, chronic illness, workplace stress, coping hurdles, role changes, or relationship conflicts? Let me introduce you to Eric Siegel, a professional counselor licensed in Florida and Texas. Eric incorporates a systemic approach grounded in evidence-based treatment modalities to validate your feelings, empower your independence and help you develop resilience in the face of life's challenges.
Art of Mind Counseling LLC
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705 (Online Only)
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, solution-focused and rational-emotive counseling.
I am a mental health counselor licensed in Florida with over 10 years of experience working as an assessor and a mental health specialist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, Mood Disorders and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, solution-focused and rational-emotive counseling.
I am a mental health counselor licensed in Florida with over 10 years of experience working as an assessor and a mental health specialist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, Mood Disorders and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
Eleana Coll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is to create a positive, humanistic relationship and environment to help you process and resolve those difficulties and strive for balance in your life. My framework is Humanistic Therapy. I use Motivational Interviewing Techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, and Trauma Narrative Therapy.
My therapeutic approach is to create a positive, humanistic relationship and environment to help you process and resolve those difficulties and strive for balance in your life. My framework is Humanistic Therapy. I use Motivational Interviewing Techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, and Trauma Narrative Therapy.
Accepting clients in Tennessee, Florida and Vermont. Struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other daily life challenges? As a counselor, I can help you identify your goals, develop coping skills, and navigate difficult situations in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Using therapies such as EMDR, CBT, and motivational interviewing, we can work together to find the best combination of therapy to improve your overall quality of life. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider and can help you learn skills and techniques to manage your symptoms.
Accepting clients in Tennessee, Florida and Vermont. Struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other daily life challenges? As a counselor, I can help you identify your goals, develop coping skills, and navigate difficult situations in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Using therapies such as EMDR, CBT, and motivational interviewing, we can work together to find the best combination of therapy to improve your overall quality of life. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider and can help you learn skills and techniques to manage your symptoms.
Lauren Mishkin
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
My unique style combines a blend of Complex Trauma treatment, Complex Grief Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, Existential, Cognitive Behavioral, and Narrative with Eastern philosophies and Spirituality.
Are you struggling to let go of habits, relationships, jobs, beliefs, or hobbies that no longer serve you? Are you grieving the loss of an important person, career, or relationship? Are you caught up in a pattern or reaching for people, food, substances, or social media to change the way you feel? At the end of the day, chronically reaching for things to change feelings is nothing more than an attempt to self-regulate; which evolves into an obsession and then a compulsion. If you’re unsure what self-regulation means, how to do it, or just want some more skills to add to your tool box I’m here to help.
My unique style combines a blend of Complex Trauma treatment, Complex Grief Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, Existential, Cognitive Behavioral, and Narrative with Eastern philosophies and Spirituality.
Are you struggling to let go of habits, relationships, jobs, beliefs, or hobbies that no longer serve you? Are you grieving the loss of an important person, career, or relationship? Are you caught up in a pattern or reaching for people, food, substances, or social media to change the way you feel? At the end of the day, chronically reaching for things to change feelings is nothing more than an attempt to self-regulate; which evolves into an obsession and then a compulsion. If you’re unsure what self-regulation means, how to do it, or just want some more skills to add to your tool box I’m here to help.
15 Second Videos
Mikayla Drymond
Lauren Mishkin
Cindy Athey
Faye Mariefel Ocomen
Darcy M Allbee
Michael Longobardi
Miles Haas
Lindsey Bell - Lily Counseling And Art Therapy Llc
Audra Walsh
Ruth Trujillo-Pertew
Amanda Thalji-Raitano
Amanda Pratt
Ariel Ellyce Williams
Jennifer Gonzalez
Mindful Vision Counseling
Kacie Zediker
Sara Spowart
Rebecca Crecraft
Ellie Mental Health - St Petersburg
Crisha Thebeau
Holistic Mental Health Clinic
Angela Touchton, EMDR Certified Therapist
Kaci Ronge
Lisa E Grinnell
Whitney Johnson
Pathway To Peace Counseling, LLC
Michalla Brianna Bohon
Jacob Lundy - Accepting New Clients
Hannah Brents
Higher Ground Wellness
Courtney Renee Lloyd
Nu Day Therapy Services, LLC
Mary A Blazier
Stephanie Ganoe - Emdr Trauma And Boundaries
Tranquil Mind Counseling and Wellness Center
Amaliya Bereznyuk
Lucas Kockler
Robine Padberg Hill
Mind Mechanic Rapid Resolution Therapy
Paige Blankenship
Dominique Mickler
Better Vibes Therapy, LLC
Taylor M Yong
Rainier McCall
Shakti Marchetti
Wendy Laza
Solutions for Change MFT. Sylvie OConnell
Briana Austin
Amy M Enkling
Jose Cabiya
Cindy Athey
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MCAP, ICADC, SAP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
I use different techniques to help, like CBT, which helps change negative thinking patterns, and Motivational Interviewing, which helps people find the motivation to change.
I help adults & teens overcome addiction and substance abuse. I have been doing this work for over 15 years. I am also a DOT Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), which means I help people who need to get back to work after having problems with drugs or alcohol. I offer help and solutions in a kind and understanding way, which does not always mean recommending 12 step meetings. When we work together, we will come up with a personalized plan that will work for you & get you back to your authentic self without feeling the need to self-medicate with substances.
I use different techniques to help, like CBT, which helps change negative thinking patterns, and Motivational Interviewing, which helps people find the motivation to change.
I help adults & teens overcome addiction and substance abuse. I have been doing this work for over 15 years. I am also a DOT Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), which means I help people who need to get back to work after having problems with drugs or alcohol. I offer help and solutions in a kind and understanding way, which does not always mean recommending 12 step meetings. When we work together, we will come up with a personalized plan that will work for you & get you back to your authentic self without feeling the need to self-medicate with substances.
In addition, motivational interviewing is used to ensure the counselor-client relationship is based on the elements the client would like to address.
Do you find it difficult to ask for help? Asking for assistance doesn't equate to weakness, it's actually a strength! As an African American / Caribean counselor I am able to serve my community with relatable shared experiences. I pride myself on encouraging my clients to see and be the light that is already within them. I use an integrative approach in that each individual is unique and processes thoughts differently. Mindfulness-based CBT allows clients to find peace within themselves through grounding. This heightened awareness of self enables us to live in accordance with our values even in the face of opposition.
In addition, motivational interviewing is used to ensure the counselor-client relationship is based on the elements the client would like to address.
Do you find it difficult to ask for help? Asking for assistance doesn't equate to weakness, it's actually a strength! As an African American / Caribean counselor I am able to serve my community with relatable shared experiences. I pride myself on encouraging my clients to see and be the light that is already within them. I use an integrative approach in that each individual is unique and processes thoughts differently. Mindfulness-based CBT allows clients to find peace within themselves through grounding. This heightened awareness of self enables us to live in accordance with our values even in the face of opposition.
Cindy Philippe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Cindy Philippe, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of Thriving Life Counseling, LLC based in Florida. I obtained my bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in social work and have experience providing therapy for youth, young adults, and families in South Florida. The clients I have worked with have faced varying circumstances ranging from depression and anxiety to grief and major life transitions. I tend to have an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello! I’m Cindy Philippe, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of Thriving Life Counseling, LLC based in Florida. I obtained my bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in social work and have experience providing therapy for youth, young adults, and families in South Florida. The clients I have worked with have faced varying circumstances ranging from depression and anxiety to grief and major life transitions. I tend to have an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Jennifer Szabo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
I am trained in EXRP, DBT, CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
Feeling consumed by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that interrupt your daily living? Are you wanting to regain power over your thoughts and life? I understand how difficult it may seem to begin the healing process. But, you do not need to do it alone. When you meet with me you will be welcomed into a nonjudgmental space that will allow you to explore the possible source of your current challenges and ways you can enhance your well-being. I do not believe therapy has to be a painful experience, it can be a healing and rewarding journey. I can walk along side you as you begin to regain control of your life.
I am trained in EXRP, DBT, CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
Feeling consumed by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that interrupt your daily living? Are you wanting to regain power over your thoughts and life? I understand how difficult it may seem to begin the healing process. But, you do not need to do it alone. When you meet with me you will be welcomed into a nonjudgmental space that will allow you to explore the possible source of your current challenges and ways you can enhance your well-being. I do not believe therapy has to be a painful experience, it can be a healing and rewarding journey. I can walk along side you as you begin to regain control of your life.
I use different methods such as evidence based cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing methods, attachment based, Gottman method, and mindfulness based among other techniques to assist my clients to create insights.
My ideal client struggles with insecurities, fears, has low self- esteem, and difficulties to identify his or her strengths. He or she has fears, and anxieties, and create the worst possible case scenarios in his or her inner dialogue for situations that he or she finds threatening or challenging. Also my ideal client needs to identify strategies to better manage their time. My ideal client struggles with anxieties in his or her relationship, which could lead to codependency and anxious attachment patterns.
I use different methods such as evidence based cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing methods, attachment based, Gottman method, and mindfulness based among other techniques to assist my clients to create insights.
My ideal client struggles with insecurities, fears, has low self- esteem, and difficulties to identify his or her strengths. He or she has fears, and anxieties, and create the worst possible case scenarios in his or her inner dialogue for situations that he or she finds threatening or challenging. Also my ideal client needs to identify strategies to better manage their time. My ideal client struggles with anxieties in his or her relationship, which could lead to codependency and anxious attachment patterns.
Fran Colello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
I do this my utilizing evidenced based treatment methods such as Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Crisis Response Planning, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 12 Step Approach to Recovery, as well as Motivational Interviewing, and Psychodynamic Theory.
Many of my clients are Law Enforcement, First Responders, Active Military, and Veterans who have been reluctant to begin therapy. My areas of specialty are anxiety & depression, trauma, alcohol/substance use, dual-diagnosis, and addressing the issues that result from these problems such as interpersonal and relationship issues, self esteem issues, and overall poor coping skills. When clients reach out to me, whether through email or voicemail, I make every attempt to return the correspondence. I want my clients to feel heard and that begins at the initial outreach. Please leave me a message, I'll respond at my earliest convenience.
I do this my utilizing evidenced based treatment methods such as Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Crisis Response Planning, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 12 Step Approach to Recovery, as well as Motivational Interviewing, and Psychodynamic Theory.
Many of my clients are Law Enforcement, First Responders, Active Military, and Veterans who have been reluctant to begin therapy. My areas of specialty are anxiety & depression, trauma, alcohol/substance use, dual-diagnosis, and addressing the issues that result from these problems such as interpersonal and relationship issues, self esteem issues, and overall poor coping skills. When clients reach out to me, whether through email or voicemail, I make every attempt to return the correspondence. I want my clients to feel heard and that begins at the initial outreach. Please leave me a message, I'll respond at my earliest convenience.
Modalities used in her treatment may include play therapy, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, motivational interviewing, and reality therapy.
I am a passionate advocate for relationships, families and marriages. I work to provide trauma-informed services, high-quality solutions, and relationship mending. I also focus on social-emotional regulation concerns and addressing pressing issues to heal, support, and grow.
Modalities used in her treatment may include play therapy, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, motivational interviewing, and reality therapy.
I am a passionate advocate for relationships, families and marriages. I work to provide trauma-informed services, high-quality solutions, and relationship mending. I also focus on social-emotional regulation concerns and addressing pressing issues to heal, support, and grow.
Kimela Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710 (Online Only)
I believe in providing client centered counseling with a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution oriented brief therapy.
Life is a journey and we all need to reach out for help at times. I have been helping clients for over 20 years move forward through depression, stress, anxiety, grief, adjusting to life transitions and coping with chronic illness. I understand that life gets tough and sometimes we get stuck. I provide honest and genuine counseling with true compassion for my clients. I have lots of positive energy and love sharing practical tools and skills to really help clients reach their goals and empower them to move forward. You've already taken the first step! Can't wait to work with you.
I believe in providing client centered counseling with a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution oriented brief therapy.
Life is a journey and we all need to reach out for help at times. I have been helping clients for over 20 years move forward through depression, stress, anxiety, grief, adjusting to life transitions and coping with chronic illness. I understand that life gets tough and sometimes we get stuck. I provide honest and genuine counseling with true compassion for my clients. I have lots of positive energy and love sharing practical tools and skills to really help clients reach their goals and empower them to move forward. You've already taken the first step! Can't wait to work with you.
Arisleydi (Aris) Garcia
Counselor, LMHC, RYT200, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
However, I want to be clear that my goal is to work with you to reach the best version of yourself via CBT, mindfulness techniques, motivational interviewing, and assertive training.
Are you experiencing difficulty with life transitions, change in culture, career concerns, and/or relationship issues? Do you wish to find a balance with all your roles and identities? Most of us wear many hats daily which can lead us to feeling overstimulated, anxious, and depressed. Sometimes we have an extensive support system but find ourselves unwilling to share vulnerable thoughts and feelings. If you are experiencing anxiety or feeling discontent as a result of change, this is the place for you. I offer culturally sensitive, holistic, evidenced based therapy to help you face change and improve your overall quality of life.
However, I want to be clear that my goal is to work with you to reach the best version of yourself via CBT, mindfulness techniques, motivational interviewing, and assertive training.
Are you experiencing difficulty with life transitions, change in culture, career concerns, and/or relationship issues? Do you wish to find a balance with all your roles and identities? Most of us wear many hats daily which can lead us to feeling overstimulated, anxious, and depressed. Sometimes we have an extensive support system but find ourselves unwilling to share vulnerable thoughts and feelings. If you are experiencing anxiety or feeling discontent as a result of change, this is the place for you. I offer culturally sensitive, holistic, evidenced based therapy to help you face change and improve your overall quality of life.
See more therapy options for Saint Petersburg
Nearby Motivational Interviewing Therapists Searches for Saint Petersburg
- Clearwater
- Dunedin
- Gulfport
- Indian Rocks Beach
- Largo
- Palma Ceia
- Pinellas Park
- Safety Harbor
- Saint Pete Beach
- Seminole
- South Pasadena
- University of Tampa
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.