Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Orleans Parish, LA

Photo of B. Gerard Woodrich, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
B. Gerard Woodrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70118
I utilize Reality-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing while employing positive strategies to exemplify emotional resilience.
Best way to make an appointment is through my website. Hello, thank you for visiting my page. Therapy is a very intimate yet necessary process in order to change negative dynamics in life. I approach therapy through engagement and fostering relationships. My approach is conversational, positive, and process based. I cater to individuals struggling with the realities of their life. Whether its stress from work or relationships, bullying at school, trauma from assault, or anxiety from your environment; I will assist you with processing those issues while strengthening your esteem and perspective.
I utilize Reality-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing while employing positive strategies to exemplify emotional resilience.
Best way to make an appointment is through my website. Hello, thank you for visiting my page. Therapy is a very intimate yet necessary process in order to change negative dynamics in life. I approach therapy through engagement and fostering relationships. My approach is conversational, positive, and process based. I cater to individuals struggling with the realities of their life. Whether its stress from work or relationships, bullying at school, trauma from assault, or anxiety from your environment; I will assist you with processing those issues while strengthening your esteem and perspective.
(504) 226-8313 View (504) 226-8313
Photo of Ryan Shelling, MSW , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Shelling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130  (Online Only)
I often utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques to assist my clients in setting and achieving their therapeutic goals.
In my practice, I specialize in working with individuals who are facing grief, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and various other emotional and psychological issues. I understand that life can present us with difficult moments, and I am here to offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and overcome these challenges.
I often utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques to assist my clients in setting and achieving their therapeutic goals.
In my practice, I specialize in working with individuals who are facing grief, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and various other emotional and psychological issues. I understand that life can present us with difficult moments, and I am here to offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and overcome these challenges.
(504) 800-8349 View (504) 800-8349
Photo of Deidre D. Hayes, DSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deidre D. Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
I am a clinical social worker with twenty five years experience working with individuals and families to resolve issues related to anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. I have extensive training in Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Therapy sessions focus on techniques that provide strategies and skills for clients to develop new coping skills and improve their quality of life.
I am a clinical social worker with twenty five years experience working with individuals and families to resolve issues related to anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. I have extensive training in Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Therapy sessions focus on techniques that provide strategies and skills for clients to develop new coping skills and improve their quality of life.
(504) 777-3381 View (504) 777-3381
Photo of Nadra T DEMAGNUS, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadra T DEMAGNUS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70116  (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Nadra DeMagnus and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from New Orleans, Louisiana. I have been providing psychotherapy and relationship coaching for more than ten years. I have worked with large groups, military families, indigenous people of Alaska, youth and young adults in schools, agency, and private settings, adults, and geriatrics from across these United States of America. Approaches utilized: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
Greetings! My name is Nadra DeMagnus and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from New Orleans, Louisiana. I have been providing psychotherapy and relationship coaching for more than ten years. I have worked with large groups, military families, indigenous people of Alaska, youth and young adults in schools, agency, and private settings, adults, and geriatrics from across these United States of America. Approaches utilized: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
(504) 513-6841 View (504) 513-6841
Photo of Maxine B Kimbrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maxine B Kimbrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
My clinical background includes crisis intervention, trauma-informed counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy.
I am a native New Orleanian who has experienced the power of resilience and rebirth in our people and our city. I believe all persons have this same capacity within themselves. Much of my work has been with underserved populations, and it has shown me that no matter where a person comes from or what they have been through, we all face many of the same challenges. Sometimes our thoughts, fears, hurt, anger, past traumas, and experiences keep us from moving on and changing. We begin to feel stuck. I’m not sure we can ever completely free ourselves from ourselves, but we do have the power to become happier and more fulfilled.
My clinical background includes crisis intervention, trauma-informed counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy.
I am a native New Orleanian who has experienced the power of resilience and rebirth in our people and our city. I believe all persons have this same capacity within themselves. Much of my work has been with underserved populations, and it has shown me that no matter where a person comes from or what they have been through, we all face many of the same challenges. Sometimes our thoughts, fears, hurt, anger, past traumas, and experiences keep us from moving on and changing. We begin to feel stuck. I’m not sure we can ever completely free ourselves from ourselves, but we do have the power to become happier and more fulfilled.
(504) 233-6501 View (504) 233-6501
Photo of Kate Kashtanava, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Kashtanava
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70117
I use a range of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, therapeutic yoga, EFIT and Internal Family Systems-IFS.
I will work with you to bring awareness and insight to your behaviors, environments, impairments, and strengths. This awareness can pave the way for understanding the underlying motives behind your behaviors, as well as reasons for discomfort or pain, so that you can make the necessary changes. Together we’ll create a safe space to process, build insight, and discover new skills. I received my Bachelor of Arts in psychology at UCLA and my Master of Arts in social work at California State University at Northridge. I have practiced in CA, LA and MS in community-based mental health, hospital and in private practice settings.
I use a range of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, therapeutic yoga, EFIT and Internal Family Systems-IFS.
I will work with you to bring awareness and insight to your behaviors, environments, impairments, and strengths. This awareness can pave the way for understanding the underlying motives behind your behaviors, as well as reasons for discomfort or pain, so that you can make the necessary changes. Together we’ll create a safe space to process, build insight, and discover new skills. I received my Bachelor of Arts in psychology at UCLA and my Master of Arts in social work at California State University at Northridge. I have practiced in CA, LA and MS in community-based mental health, hospital and in private practice settings.
(504) 608-5613 View (504) 608-5613
Photo of Jaimie Kroot, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaimie Kroot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70117  (Online Only)
I use a combination of well-researched interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, and other techniques to help you make better choices, & feel calmer and more in control.
In this increasingly wacky world, life can happen in a way that doesn't always seem to work. Change may be scary, leaving you feeling lost without a roadmap. I work to create a safe, supportive environment, free from judgment so you can show up and put whatever you're thinking and feeling on the table. We navigate together - exploring and sorting out your strengths and inner dialogue to harness your power (it's in there!). My goal is to help you reduce feelings of stress, sadness, and confusion, open your mind to possibilities, and give you concrete, practical new tools and strategies to get you back on your best path.
I use a combination of well-researched interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, and other techniques to help you make better choices, & feel calmer and more in control.
In this increasingly wacky world, life can happen in a way that doesn't always seem to work. Change may be scary, leaving you feeling lost without a roadmap. I work to create a safe, supportive environment, free from judgment so you can show up and put whatever you're thinking and feeling on the table. We navigate together - exploring and sorting out your strengths and inner dialogue to harness your power (it's in there!). My goal is to help you reduce feelings of stress, sadness, and confusion, open your mind to possibilities, and give you concrete, practical new tools and strategies to get you back on your best path.
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Photo of Dr. Ashley Ojo, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CTMH, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Ashley Ojo
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CTMH, CCATP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70131  (Online Only)
I view counseling as a collaborative relationship between the client and the counselor. This collaborative relationship allows the client and therapist to work together to address issues the client is facing through the development of mutually agreed upon clinical and personal goals. During therapy, I focus on patterns of thoughts, behaviors, moods, and communication that may contribute to client distress. I often address these issues utilizing Person-Centered, Systems, Cogitative Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (evidenced-based therapeutic practices).
I view counseling as a collaborative relationship between the client and the counselor. This collaborative relationship allows the client and therapist to work together to address issues the client is facing through the development of mutually agreed upon clinical and personal goals. During therapy, I focus on patterns of thoughts, behaviors, moods, and communication that may contribute to client distress. I often address these issues utilizing Person-Centered, Systems, Cogitative Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (evidenced-based therapeutic practices).
(504) 502-7284 View (504) 502-7284
Photo of Katie Lynn, MEd, CHWC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Lynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, CHWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70124
Hello! Welcome to taking the first step in finding support to assist you in being the best version of yourself despite life's challenges. I am a Certified Health and Well-Being Coach (CHWC) with 16 years of experience. I enjoy using a “coach approach” when appropriate as the focus is forward moving. This equips me with more tools for successful outcomes with clients. Utilizing approaches from positive psychology, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered theories, I am here to walk along side with you toward your goals of behavior change.
Hello! Welcome to taking the first step in finding support to assist you in being the best version of yourself despite life's challenges. I am a Certified Health and Well-Being Coach (CHWC) with 16 years of experience. I enjoy using a “coach approach” when appropriate as the focus is forward moving. This equips me with more tools for successful outcomes with clients. Utilizing approaches from positive psychology, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered theories, I am here to walk along side with you toward your goals of behavior change.
(504) 688-3430 View (504) 688-3430
Photo of Victoria Porter, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70130
I also use motivational interviewing, reality therapy, DBT skills, and rational emotive behavioral therapy when appropriate.
Currently accepting new clients! I am LGBTQ friendly! I work well with clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and spiritual perspectives. I have a wealth of experience working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem/confidence issues, grief and loss, managing stress, and helping people stay sober from alcohol/drugs. I enjoy helping people identify their own strengths and empowering them to make positive changes in their lives.
I also use motivational interviewing, reality therapy, DBT skills, and rational emotive behavioral therapy when appropriate.
Currently accepting new clients! I am LGBTQ friendly! I work well with clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and spiritual perspectives. I have a wealth of experience working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem/confidence issues, grief and loss, managing stress, and helping people stay sober from alcohol/drugs. I enjoy helping people identify their own strengths and empowering them to make positive changes in their lives.
(318) 666-3385 View (318) 666-3385
Photo of Janet Kay Wolford, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Kay Wolford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70117
Janet Wolford is a licensed professional counselor who has worked with diverse populations helping individuals and couples make desired changes in their lives. Sometimes our lives present challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed and defeated. Having support can help you move through problems such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relational struggles, or loss.
Janet Wolford is a licensed professional counselor who has worked with diverse populations helping individuals and couples make desired changes in their lives. Sometimes our lives present challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed and defeated. Having support can help you move through problems such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relational struggles, or loss.
(504) 285-4068 View (504) 285-4068
Photo of Jhane Hood Phillips, LCSW, GC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jhane Hood Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
To paraphrase artist and author Tori Press- I’m here to help hold your balloon until you feel ready to hold it again yourself. No one should have to navigate life's challenges alone (even superheroes have sidekicks). My approach to therapy is solution-focused, person-centered, and holistic. While evidence-based practices and theories have their merit, ultimately you are the expert on your own life. I aim to create a supportive and non-judgmental place where we can discuss your challenges, talk through the hard questions, and work collaboratively to find solutions.
To paraphrase artist and author Tori Press- I’m here to help hold your balloon until you feel ready to hold it again yourself. No one should have to navigate life's challenges alone (even superheroes have sidekicks). My approach to therapy is solution-focused, person-centered, and holistic. While evidence-based practices and theories have their merit, ultimately you are the expert on your own life. I aim to create a supportive and non-judgmental place where we can discuss your challenges, talk through the hard questions, and work collaboratively to find solutions.
(504) 677-8147 View (504) 677-8147
Photo of Ashley Dueling Staehle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Dueling Staehle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Clients! Do you ever feel overwhelmed? That you want to do it all and there does not seem to be enough time in a day. Do you find yourself wondering if creating balance in your life is possible? Do you find yourself questioning who am I? If you answered yes to any of these questions. I can help you find balance, connection and vibrancy. No matter where you are in your life, counseling can help you achieve overall wellness. This allows you to achieve your goals and to make decisions based on your values or what is important to you.
Currently Accepting New Clients! Do you ever feel overwhelmed? That you want to do it all and there does not seem to be enough time in a day. Do you find yourself wondering if creating balance in your life is possible? Do you find yourself questioning who am I? If you answered yes to any of these questions. I can help you find balance, connection and vibrancy. No matter where you are in your life, counseling can help you achieve overall wellness. This allows you to achieve your goals and to make decisions based on your values or what is important to you.
(504) 350-2300 View (504) 350-2300
Photo of Jennifer Keith, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70113
What would your life look like if you could snap your fingers and everything could change? What if your relationships with loved ones had less conflict? What if your stress levels were more manageable? Whether this is your first time in counseling or you’re searching for a new therapist that’s a “good fit,” I can help in tackling those questions. Here’s a quick snapshot of what our experience will look like together: I use an existential lens in therapy, which means that I enjoy teaming up with a client to explore the patterns of their life. Your life patterns are unique, and your counseling experience should reflect that.
What would your life look like if you could snap your fingers and everything could change? What if your relationships with loved ones had less conflict? What if your stress levels were more manageable? Whether this is your first time in counseling or you’re searching for a new therapist that’s a “good fit,” I can help in tackling those questions. Here’s a quick snapshot of what our experience will look like together: I use an existential lens in therapy, which means that I enjoy teaming up with a client to explore the patterns of their life. Your life patterns are unique, and your counseling experience should reflect that.
(504) 576-9768 View (504) 576-9768
Photo of Gabrielle Fischler - BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70127
Do you feel overwhelmed, that too many things are spiraling out of your control causing exhausting stress or unbearable burden? Maybe you feel flat and empty; disconnected from your sense of vitality, or that your inner world is confusing, causing you to feel lost. There are many reasons why we may lose our sense of peace, hope, joy, or security. Perhaps you are a parent at a loss of how to support your child or a young adult who is feeling unseen and disrespected. Fostering internal trust and compassion can be monumental in providing direction and a regained sense of self.
Do you feel overwhelmed, that too many things are spiraling out of your control causing exhausting stress or unbearable burden? Maybe you feel flat and empty; disconnected from your sense of vitality, or that your inner world is confusing, causing you to feel lost. There are many reasons why we may lose our sense of peace, hope, joy, or security. Perhaps you are a parent at a loss of how to support your child or a young adult who is feeling unseen and disrespected. Fostering internal trust and compassion can be monumental in providing direction and a regained sense of self.
(504) 321-7725 View (504) 321-7725
Photo of Jannette Sturm-Mexic - CARE Institute Inc., LMFT, LPC
CARE Institute Inc.
LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
CARE Institute offers various programs including FREE and low-cost teletherapy. Our clinicians approach therapy from a holistic systems perspective to assist clients with learning skills to address life challenges. Clinicians at CARE offer a wide range of expertise to assist clients. Our licensed clinicians are marriage and family therapists (LMFT/PLMFT), professional mental health counselors (LPC/PLPC), and Registered Play Therapists. Our CARE for Y'ALL teletherapy program clinicians are marriage & family therapy graduate students from nationally accredited MFT programs.
CARE Institute offers various programs including FREE and low-cost teletherapy. Our clinicians approach therapy from a holistic systems perspective to assist clients with learning skills to address life challenges. Clinicians at CARE offer a wide range of expertise to assist clients. Our licensed clinicians are marriage and family therapists (LMFT/PLMFT), professional mental health counselors (LPC/PLPC), and Registered Play Therapists. Our CARE for Y'ALL teletherapy program clinicians are marriage & family therapy graduate students from nationally accredited MFT programs.
(504) 384-2178 View (504) 384-2178
Photo of Brian S Canfield - Dr. Brian S. Canfield, LMFT, EdD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Brian S. Canfield, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70112
My practice specializes in marriage counseling and couple therapy. I also work with individuals on a wide-range of mental health, career transition, substance use, and life transition issues. I have worked with more than 2,800 couples in my career, addressing relationship concerns and finding solutions to chronic dissatisfaction, infidelity, poor communication, intimacy problems, and family conflict. For persons who are uncertain about remaining in their marriage, "discernment counseling" is available to help an ambivalent spouse gain clarity about their relationship commitment and options for bringing about needed change.
My practice specializes in marriage counseling and couple therapy. I also work with individuals on a wide-range of mental health, career transition, substance use, and life transition issues. I have worked with more than 2,800 couples in my career, addressing relationship concerns and finding solutions to chronic dissatisfaction, infidelity, poor communication, intimacy problems, and family conflict. For persons who are uncertain about remaining in their marriage, "discernment counseling" is available to help an ambivalent spouse gain clarity about their relationship commitment and options for bringing about needed change.
(318) 608-4318 View (318) 608-4318
Photo of Mary Grace Wagner - BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70127
Feeling overwhelmed? Do you ever feel stress and anxiety are so paralyzing, that everyday tasks feel almost impossible? While stress and anxiety are natural emotions, that doesn’t mean you have to face them alone. Mary Grace Wagner, LMSW has experience helping individuals cope and live with anxiety, depression, and stress of any magnitude. She possesses the necessary skills to help clients develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stressful emotions and life events that are constructive as well as therapeutic.
Feeling overwhelmed? Do you ever feel stress and anxiety are so paralyzing, that everyday tasks feel almost impossible? While stress and anxiety are natural emotions, that doesn’t mean you have to face them alone. Mary Grace Wagner, LMSW has experience helping individuals cope and live with anxiety, depression, and stress of any magnitude. She possesses the necessary skills to help clients develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stressful emotions and life events that are constructive as well as therapeutic.
(504) 321-5686 View (504) 321-5686
Photo of Shaina Spector, MS, LPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shaina Spector
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70130
*Currently accepting new clients and all appointments will be done via telehealth.* It is possible to have a more peaceful, meaningful life. Together, we can work through your stress, trauma, fears, low self-esteem, and/or relationship challenges. I work with individual adults and older adolescents who want to get more out of their life, their relationships, and/or their work. I approach my work with passion, empathy, and a respect. I excel with clients who are going through transitions or rethinking their path (moving, starting college, graduate school, new career/unfulfilling work, break ups, new parents, and more).
*Currently accepting new clients and all appointments will be done via telehealth.* It is possible to have a more peaceful, meaningful life. Together, we can work through your stress, trauma, fears, low self-esteem, and/or relationship challenges. I work with individual adults and older adolescents who want to get more out of their life, their relationships, and/or their work. I approach my work with passion, empathy, and a respect. I excel with clients who are going through transitions or rethinking their path (moving, starting college, graduate school, new career/unfulfilling work, break ups, new parents, and more).
(985) 243-1657 View (985) 243-1657
Photo of Sara Estes, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Estes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119
I know firsthand the stress of trying to find a therapist who meets your needs. Let me provide you with a snapshot of what you can expect from me as your therapist: no judgement, a comfortable safe space, direct feedback, realistic goals and the ability to meet you where you are in your journey. I have eleven years of experience counseling both individuals and couples with a wide variety of issues. Currently, I do not have any evening availability for sessions. Email me today to set up an appointment, and make the first step towards positive change. I am also a Licenced Supervisor who is accepting PLPC's into her practice.
I know firsthand the stress of trying to find a therapist who meets your needs. Let me provide you with a snapshot of what you can expect from me as your therapist: no judgement, a comfortable safe space, direct feedback, realistic goals and the ability to meet you where you are in your journey. I have eleven years of experience counseling both individuals and couples with a wide variety of issues. Currently, I do not have any evening availability for sessions. Email me today to set up an appointment, and make the first step towards positive change. I am also a Licenced Supervisor who is accepting PLPC's into her practice.
(504) 946-1621 View (504) 946-1621
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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.