Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Edgewater, MD

Photo of Dana Wizeman, LGPC, NCC, Counselor
Dana Wizeman
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, MD 21037  (Online Only)
Welcome everyone. I am excited to meet you. Life can be tough. The everyday demands of school, family and our careers can be overwhelming. There will be times when we just need someone to listen, and there will be times when the adversities of life can leave us in need of developing certain skills to help us cope. We cannot always control what happens to us, but we can control how we respond and look after ourselves. Let's work together, develop a plan for you, and create the life you want!
Welcome everyone. I am excited to meet you. Life can be tough. The everyday demands of school, family and our careers can be overwhelming. There will be times when we just need someone to listen, and there will be times when the adversities of life can leave us in need of developing certain skills to help us cope. We cannot always control what happens to us, but we can control how we respond and look after ourselves. Let's work together, develop a plan for you, and create the life you want!
(410) 604-8367 View (410) 604-8367
Photo of Valyra Bacigalupi, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valyra Bacigalupi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Edgewater, MD 21037
Valyra has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) for over 17 years and provides psychotherapy to Individuals, Couples, Families and Groups. Valyra feels to totally heal, one needs to treat the mind, body and soul, therefore looks at all levels of the client and is very eclectic. She uses the different trainings and techniques mentioned, which are then tailored to the clients' specific needs, in order for them to heal completely. Valyra is also a board approved supervisor therefore can provide you supervision for your hours. If Valyra does not take your insurance please call her and discuss her very reasonable rates.
Valyra has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) for over 17 years and provides psychotherapy to Individuals, Couples, Families and Groups. Valyra feels to totally heal, one needs to treat the mind, body and soul, therefore looks at all levels of the client and is very eclectic. She uses the different trainings and techniques mentioned, which are then tailored to the clients' specific needs, in order for them to heal completely. Valyra is also a board approved supervisor therefore can provide you supervision for your hours. If Valyra does not take your insurance please call her and discuss her very reasonable rates.
(301) 517-6172 View (301) 517-6172
Photo of Melvyn P Heyes, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melvyn P Heyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, MD 21037
I work with career-oriented individuals to resolve relationship issues, stress at home and work, as well as help parents with challenging adolescents and children. Too much responsibility and stress at home, school or workplace often leads to strained relationships, isolation, loss of motivation or debilitating fears. I help people and families who are affected by anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior challenges at school, defiance and anger, divorce or trauma. I've worked with children, teens and young adults with emotional disturbances, behavior problems, substance abuse, self-harm, or personality development issues, and helped couples and parents sort through relationship challenges.
I work with career-oriented individuals to resolve relationship issues, stress at home and work, as well as help parents with challenging adolescents and children. Too much responsibility and stress at home, school or workplace often leads to strained relationships, isolation, loss of motivation or debilitating fears. I help people and families who are affected by anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior challenges at school, defiance and anger, divorce or trauma. I've worked with children, teens and young adults with emotional disturbances, behavior problems, substance abuse, self-harm, or personality development issues, and helped couples and parents sort through relationship challenges.
(410) 970-4917 View (410) 970-4917
Photo of Valerie Medina, LGPC, Counselor
Valerie Medina
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edgewater, MD 21037  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist and the founder of ChromaCare Counseling where I'm dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive space for self-discovery and growth. I specialize in working with clients ages preteens to adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and grief. I value providing care that is trauma informed, facilitates healthy relationship dynamics, and is LGBTQ+ affirming. Navigating life's challenges doesn't have to be done alone. Finding a therapist who fits you can create a supportive therapeutic alliance towards empowerment, resilience, and developing effective strategies.
I am a licensed therapist and the founder of ChromaCare Counseling where I'm dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive space for self-discovery and growth. I specialize in working with clients ages preteens to adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and grief. I value providing care that is trauma informed, facilitates healthy relationship dynamics, and is LGBTQ+ affirming. Navigating life's challenges doesn't have to be done alone. Finding a therapist who fits you can create a supportive therapeutic alliance towards empowerment, resilience, and developing effective strategies.
(240) 512-6949 View (240) 512-6949
Photo of Jeff Bright - Bright Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bright Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edgewater, MD 21037  (Online Only)
As committed mental health therapists, our specialty lies in supporting adolescents and adults battling depression, anxiety, and self acceptance, with a keen focus on those exploring their sexual identity. We provide a compassionate environment for individuals contending with the discord between their newly accepted self and long-held values or religious beliefs. Collaboratively, we strive to enhance self-esteem, nurture confidence, and initiate a rewarding journey towards self-discovery.
As committed mental health therapists, our specialty lies in supporting adolescents and adults battling depression, anxiety, and self acceptance, with a keen focus on those exploring their sexual identity. We provide a compassionate environment for individuals contending with the discord between their newly accepted self and long-held values or religious beliefs. Collaboratively, we strive to enhance self-esteem, nurture confidence, and initiate a rewarding journey towards self-discovery.
(385) 250-0437 View (385) 250-0437
Photo of . Sanchez - Healthy Hearts & Minds LLC , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healthy Hearts & Minds LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edgewater, MD 21037  (Online Only)
Healthy Hearts & Minds can offer you Outpatient Therapy, Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, Intensive Outpatient Treatment and 24/7 Crisis Intervention. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy working with people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, Bipolar, PTSD, addiction, adjustment disorder and other mood disorders. We work with families, teens, adults and children as early as 12 years old.
Healthy Hearts & Minds can offer you Outpatient Therapy, Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, Intensive Outpatient Treatment and 24/7 Crisis Intervention. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy working with people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, Bipolar, PTSD, addiction, adjustment disorder and other mood disorders. We work with families, teens, adults and children as early as 12 years old.
(571) 200-0624 View (571) 200-0624
Photo of Heidi Tracey Llc, MA CAS, LGPC, NCSP, Counselor
Heidi Tracey Llc
Counselor, MA CAS, LGPC, NCSP
Verified Verified
Edgewater, MD 21037  (Online Only)
Whether you are going through a life transition yourself, struggling emotionally, facing an impending loss, or a circumstance that makes you feel like you have no control over your life, it can be difficult to try to keep moving forward. Are you having trouble controlling the intensity of your emotions? Making unhelpful choices? Experiencing negative impacts to your personal life? Professional/school life? Having trouble understanding your actions or the actions of others? Struggling with negative thought patterns? Lacking the skills to deal with the heavy stress you are feeling? Struggling to take clear steps to reach your goals?
Whether you are going through a life transition yourself, struggling emotionally, facing an impending loss, or a circumstance that makes you feel like you have no control over your life, it can be difficult to try to keep moving forward. Are you having trouble controlling the intensity of your emotions? Making unhelpful choices? Experiencing negative impacts to your personal life? Professional/school life? Having trouble understanding your actions or the actions of others? Struggling with negative thought patterns? Lacking the skills to deal with the heavy stress you are feeling? Struggling to take clear steps to reach your goals?
(667) 285-8548 View (667) 285-8548
Photo of Rebecca Mitch McKee - Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc., PhD, LCPC, CFC, BCTMH
Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CFC, BCTMH
Verified Verified
Edgewater, MD 21037
Anne Arundel Counseling is a highly recognized and regarded MD State Certified provider offering six convenient locations throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington areas (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Edgewater, Bowie, Stevensville & Centreville). We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of licensed and experiences psychological, psycho therapeutic and clinical specialists. We are dedicated to the well-being of each client and empowering them to achieve in a warm, supportive and inviting environment. For additional information please visit our website at: www.annearundelcounseling.com To schedule with on one of our experienced male or female providers, please call our office to speak with any one of our administrative staff members: Allison O'Hanlon, Client Coordinator, Michele Kline, Office Manager or Connie Thomas, Practice Manager. Our administrative staff will complete an informal screening to have you scheduled with the most appropriate clinician for your area of need. They will also answer any questions you may have regarding the counseling process, AAC, your clinician or any other related item. Lastly, they will take any insurance or EAP information to perform the billing as appropriate. We look forward to hearing from you and ensure your counseling experience is positive and beneficial.
Anne Arundel Counseling is a highly recognized and regarded MD State Certified provider offering six convenient locations throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington areas (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Edgewater, Bowie, Stevensville & Centreville). We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of licensed and experiences psychological, psycho therapeutic and clinical specialists. We are dedicated to the well-being of each client and empowering them to achieve in a warm, supportive and inviting environment. For additional information please visit our website at: www.annearundelcounseling.com To schedule with on one of our experienced male or female providers, please call our office to speak with any one of our administrative staff members: Allison O'Hanlon, Client Coordinator, Michele Kline, Office Manager or Connie Thomas, Practice Manager. Our administrative staff will complete an informal screening to have you scheduled with the most appropriate clinician for your area of need. They will also answer any questions you may have regarding the counseling process, AAC, your clinician or any other related item. Lastly, they will take any insurance or EAP information to perform the billing as appropriate. We look forward to hearing from you and ensure your counseling experience is positive and beneficial.
(410) 415-1851 View (410) 415-1851
Photo of Michelle Rene' Hammer, LCPC, MS, BACS, CPC, NCC, Counselor
Michelle Rene' Hammer
Counselor, LCPC, MS, BACS, CPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, MD 21037
You've made a brave decision! It takes a great deal of courage and strength to ask for help. I know it's not easy struggling with problems alone not knowing where to turn or who you can trust. Give me a call today and let's sort things out together! We can get from where you are to where you desire to be. You shouldn't suffer alone no matter what mistakes or messes life has brought you. Today is the day to take a leap of faith! Start your healing journey in a safe space and let's sort through your struggles and figure things out. Let's journey together.
You've made a brave decision! It takes a great deal of courage and strength to ask for help. I know it's not easy struggling with problems alone not knowing where to turn or who you can trust. Give me a call today and let's sort things out together! We can get from where you are to where you desire to be. You shouldn't suffer alone no matter what mistakes or messes life has brought you. Today is the day to take a leap of faith! Start your healing journey in a safe space and let's sort through your struggles and figure things out. Let's journey together.
(410) 457-3583 View (410) 457-3583
Photo of Christa Welch Bellanca, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christa Welch Bellanca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, MD 21037
Warmth, authenticity and connection, plus a little bit (sometimes a lot) of laughter are the hallmarks of my practice. I focus on establishing and maintaining a safe, trusting relationship with every client because I believe through connection there is healing. I specialize in helping clients in transition - separation, divorce, empty nesting, college-to-adulting - the major life changes where we often find ourselves questioning, doubting, or just wondering. Helping others discover their own "Ah-ha" moments is what makes me a great therapist.
Warmth, authenticity and connection, plus a little bit (sometimes a lot) of laughter are the hallmarks of my practice. I focus on establishing and maintaining a safe, trusting relationship with every client because I believe through connection there is healing. I specialize in helping clients in transition - separation, divorce, empty nesting, college-to-adulting - the major life changes where we often find ourselves questioning, doubting, or just wondering. Helping others discover their own "Ah-ha" moments is what makes me a great therapist.
(410) 941-3328 View (410) 941-3328
Photo of Carrie Nicholes, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Nicholes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edgewater, MD 21037
You are ready to make the shift. You have been searching for the right fit, someone who you can trust to walk that journey with you. When it comes to finding a therapist, you want someone that will meet you where you are and help you make the changes you’ve been craving. I imagine you're looking to get unstuck, obtain greater clarity, find healing, improve your relationships with self/others, and empower yourself with tools to live a more fulfilled life.
You are ready to make the shift. You have been searching for the right fit, someone who you can trust to walk that journey with you. When it comes to finding a therapist, you want someone that will meet you where you are and help you make the changes you’ve been craving. I imagine you're looking to get unstuck, obtain greater clarity, find healing, improve your relationships with self/others, and empower yourself with tools to live a more fulfilled life.
(443) 775-3783 View (443) 775-3783
Photo of Lisa Keough, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Keough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Edgewater, MD 21037
I am licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a solution-focused approach to help my clients engage in a therapeutic process that promotes resiliency and restores overall health and well-being. I also provide consulting services to connect parents and caregivers with school and community-based resources.
I am licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a solution-focused approach to help my clients engage in a therapeutic process that promotes resiliency and restores overall health and well-being. I also provide consulting services to connect parents and caregivers with school and community-based resources.
(410) 639-3459 View (410) 639-3459
Photo of Lindsey Blades, LCSW-C, CCTP, CGCS, CSWHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Blades
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP, CGCS, CSWHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edgewater, MD 21037
I enjoy helping people overcome obstacles to enjoy life again. Using a warm, compassionate approach to therapy I walk alongside my clients on their journey helping to guide them in reaching their goals and living the life they desire. Being a small private practice allows me to provide superior mental health care by connecting with each client and being able to focus on each personal story.
I enjoy helping people overcome obstacles to enjoy life again. Using a warm, compassionate approach to therapy I walk alongside my clients on their journey helping to guide them in reaching their goals and living the life they desire. Being a small private practice allows me to provide superior mental health care by connecting with each client and being able to focus on each personal story.
(410) 656-6735 View (410) 656-6735

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caitlin McGuire, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin McGuire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I completed Lisa Ferentz Trauma Certification - level I and am looking forward to integrating multiple trauma focused approaches into treatment as well as other modalities including motivational interviewing, CBT and strength based interventions.
Congratulations on taking this step in your journey of wellness. I look forward to having the pleasure of walking alongside you in this journey of empowerment! My background has been in in home services, specifically in foster care and adoptions. I have had the opportunity to work in diverse populations, including Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. Caitlin is a board certified clinical supervisor.
I completed Lisa Ferentz Trauma Certification - level I and am looking forward to integrating multiple trauma focused approaches into treatment as well as other modalities including motivational interviewing, CBT and strength based interventions.
Congratulations on taking this step in your journey of wellness. I look forward to having the pleasure of walking alongside you in this journey of empowerment! My background has been in in home services, specifically in foster care and adoptions. I have had the opportunity to work in diverse populations, including Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. Caitlin is a board certified clinical supervisor.
(410) 567-0610 View (410) 567-0610
Photo of Deb Dunman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb Dunman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with clients in a variety of clinical settings, and I believe Telehealth is an important tool to meet clients where they are, in safe place, and without judgement. I utilize multiple therapeutic approaches in my practice including frameworks from DBT, CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, mind-body connection, holistic, systems focused, trauma informed, and person-centered modalities. During the initial session, we will review your therapeutic history and any experiences, symptoms, and environments that present conflict or challenge. From there we will forge a path forward.
I have extensive experience working with clients in a variety of clinical settings, and I believe Telehealth is an important tool to meet clients where they are, in safe place, and without judgement. I utilize multiple therapeutic approaches in my practice including frameworks from DBT, CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, mind-body connection, holistic, systems focused, trauma informed, and person-centered modalities. During the initial session, we will review your therapeutic history and any experiences, symptoms, and environments that present conflict or challenge. From there we will forge a path forward.
(301) 691-2863 View (301) 691-2863
Photo of Meg Cocco - Cocco Mental Health and Wellness, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cocco Mental Health and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Megan has training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), motivational interviewing and takes a client-centered approach to care.
Megan Cocco, LCSW-C, has 9 years of private practice experience treating adolescents and adults with a variety of circumstances including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues and trauma. Megan has experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and provides a safe and comfortable therapy environment. Megan attended the University of Maryland School of Social Work in Baltimore, Maryland and graduated with her Master's of Social Work (MSW) in 2013. Megan is also a Board approved supervisor.
Megan has training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), motivational interviewing and takes a client-centered approach to care.
Megan Cocco, LCSW-C, has 9 years of private practice experience treating adolescents and adults with a variety of circumstances including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues and trauma. Megan has experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and provides a safe and comfortable therapy environment. Megan attended the University of Maryland School of Social Work in Baltimore, Maryland and graduated with her Master's of Social Work (MSW) in 2013. Megan is also a Board approved supervisor.
(667) 274-0902 View (667) 274-0902
Photo of Emily Coco, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Coco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My approach utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness-based & Solution-Focused Therapy.
Do you want to increase self-awareness, reduce symptoms of anxiety/depression, improve communication & relationships within your family, process grief, find balance in your maternal role, and learn effective stress management techniques? Ultimately, do you want to regain control over your life and cultivate greater resilience and happiness? My primary goal is to provide my clients with coping strategies, build resilience, foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, & create a more fulfilling life.
My approach utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness-based & Solution-Focused Therapy.
Do you want to increase self-awareness, reduce symptoms of anxiety/depression, improve communication & relationships within your family, process grief, find balance in your maternal role, and learn effective stress management techniques? Ultimately, do you want to regain control over your life and cultivate greater resilience and happiness? My primary goal is to provide my clients with coping strategies, build resilience, foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, & create a more fulfilling life.
(667) 226-0443 View (667) 226-0443
Photo of Logan Ross, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Logan Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I will be solution-focused and encourage you through DBT, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
My ideal client would be someone who recognizes unhealthy patterns and is ready to make a change, whether this is a disruption in day-to-day functioning, relationships, self-esteem, or addiction. Even if your goal isn't clear at the moment, I will help guide you along the way until you're able to see the finish line you envision. Clients should be ready to be challenged and encouraged to get outside of their comfort zone.
I will be solution-focused and encourage you through DBT, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
My ideal client would be someone who recognizes unhealthy patterns and is ready to make a change, whether this is a disruption in day-to-day functioning, relationships, self-esteem, or addiction. Even if your goal isn't clear at the moment, I will help guide you along the way until you're able to see the finish line you envision. Clients should be ready to be challenged and encouraged to get outside of their comfort zone.
(667) 220-5397 View (667) 220-5397
Photo of Liz McQuarrie, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz McQuarrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in sex therapy, EMDR, TF-CBT, and motivational interviewing, and have experience working with those who have experienced trauma.
I enjoy working with teens and adults in developing a healthy sexual self. In sessions, I focus on sexuality, identity, communication, and self-confidence. We will talk about how previous events may be impacting current life and evaluate strengths that can assist you in making meaningful changes. I am mindful that people come to therapy with different needs and abilities, so I incorporate relevant modalities and use talk as well as visuals to make concepts more accessible. My hope is that people leave therapy feeling that they have more complete relationships with themselves and others.
I am trained in sex therapy, EMDR, TF-CBT, and motivational interviewing, and have experience working with those who have experienced trauma.
I enjoy working with teens and adults in developing a healthy sexual self. In sessions, I focus on sexuality, identity, communication, and self-confidence. We will talk about how previous events may be impacting current life and evaluate strengths that can assist you in making meaningful changes. I am mindful that people come to therapy with different needs and abilities, so I incorporate relevant modalities and use talk as well as visuals to make concepts more accessible. My hope is that people leave therapy feeling that they have more complete relationships with themselves and others.
(410) 593-1529 View (410) 593-1529
Photo of Eryn Kruger, PhD, Psychologist
Eryn Kruger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I have expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Functional Family Therapy (FFT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is dedicated to helping others have the life of their choosing. As a part of my training, I completed a doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital. Currently, at the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center, I work with children, adolescents, and their families to navigate a range of problems. Problems that I treat and evaluate include depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment problems, anger/aggression, trauma, and family difficulties. I take a collaborative and individualized approach in the treatment process and value input from all members.
I have expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Functional Family Therapy (FFT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is dedicated to helping others have the life of their choosing. As a part of my training, I completed a doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital. Currently, at the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center, I work with children, adolescents, and their families to navigate a range of problems. Problems that I treat and evaluate include depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment problems, anger/aggression, trauma, and family difficulties. I take a collaborative and individualized approach in the treatment process and value input from all members.
(410) 267-4936 View (410) 267-4936
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.