Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Severn, MD

Photo of Veronica G Lavind, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica G Lavind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy looks different for everyone as there is no single approach that works for everyone; Brainspotting, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Strength-based are a few of the modalities I use.
Limited Availability. Emails preferred over phone calls. I specialize in a wide range of disorders and personal needs in both English and Spanish such as: depression, trauma, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, life transitions, and many more. As an Army Veteran, I relate and acknowledge many of the issues that fellow veterans and members of our military face and desire to provide the service that is much needed with the ability to "talk military" and be understood. I enjoy working with individuals who are ready for change and want to live a balanced and manageable lifestyle.
Therapy looks different for everyone as there is no single approach that works for everyone; Brainspotting, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Strength-based are a few of the modalities I use.
Limited Availability. Emails preferred over phone calls. I specialize in a wide range of disorders and personal needs in both English and Spanish such as: depression, trauma, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, life transitions, and many more. As an Army Veteran, I relate and acknowledge many of the issues that fellow veterans and members of our military face and desire to provide the service that is much needed with the ability to "talk military" and be understood. I enjoy working with individuals who are ready for change and want to live a balanced and manageable lifestyle.
(443) 323-0630 View (443) 323-0630
Photo of Shawntay Fenyo, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Shawntay Fenyo
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144  (Online Only)
Sessions are personalized based on the specific need of the client using evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychotherapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and faith-based solutions.
Change is hard but sometimes necessary to face life's challenges. Let today be your day to start your process to change, heal, create, and improve mental health. I work with clients to manage anxiety, depression, past traumas, relationship difficulties, as well as grief support. I have expertise and training working with families who have experienced multiple family trauma. Additionally have a great passion for assisting the emerging adult population navigate the uncertain transitions into adulthood.
Sessions are personalized based on the specific need of the client using evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychotherapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and faith-based solutions.
Change is hard but sometimes necessary to face life's challenges. Let today be your day to start your process to change, heal, create, and improve mental health. I work with clients to manage anxiety, depression, past traumas, relationship difficulties, as well as grief support. I have expertise and training working with families who have experienced multiple family trauma. Additionally have a great passion for assisting the emerging adult population navigate the uncertain transitions into adulthood.
(443) 230-5904 View (443) 230-5904
Photo of Laura Vatenos, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Vatenos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144
I am currently expanding my practice, so I have availability in no more than a week. I have worked as a mental health provider for more than 16 years, working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and other challenges. My office provides a positive atmosphere in which you can learn more about yourself, meet your goals and work toward increased happiness. I believe that you are the expert of your story and with your unique strengths, I can assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.
I am currently expanding my practice, so I have availability in no more than a week. I have worked as a mental health provider for more than 16 years, working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and other challenges. My office provides a positive atmosphere in which you can learn more about yourself, meet your goals and work toward increased happiness. I believe that you are the expert of your story and with your unique strengths, I can assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.
(410) 567-5407 View (410) 567-5407
Photo of Kristilee Sheffler, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristilee Sheffler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144  (Online Only)
Email for quicker response, (Taking New Clients). For over a decade, I have been advocating with and for people struggling with mental health concerns. As a person-centered clinician and an empathetic administrator meeting client needs in crisis, trauma, mental illness, substance abuse, and similar stressors, I am well prepared to work side-by-side with clients and guide the entire team through the often confusing processes leading toward success.
Email for quicker response, (Taking New Clients). For over a decade, I have been advocating with and for people struggling with mental health concerns. As a person-centered clinician and an empathetic administrator meeting client needs in crisis, trauma, mental illness, substance abuse, and similar stressors, I am well prepared to work side-by-side with clients and guide the entire team through the often confusing processes leading toward success.
(443) 429-1471 View (443) 429-1471
Photo of Holestine Aiken, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holestine Aiken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severn, MD 21144  (Online Only)
Looking for someone to talk to? There is no need to continue suffering in silence! Help is available! SOLUTIONS may be your answer to relationship issues, depression and other mood disorders. Other problems such as chronic stress, incessant worrying, low self-esteem, social anxiety, substance abuse, chronic mental illness, anxiety and adjustment disorders are also a major focus of my practice. Whether the problems that you are encountering are the result of a temporary stressor, or related to more long-term problems, therapy can help and I look forward to working with you. I work with adults, adolescents, families and couples.
Looking for someone to talk to? There is no need to continue suffering in silence! Help is available! SOLUTIONS may be your answer to relationship issues, depression and other mood disorders. Other problems such as chronic stress, incessant worrying, low self-esteem, social anxiety, substance abuse, chronic mental illness, anxiety and adjustment disorders are also a major focus of my practice. Whether the problems that you are encountering are the result of a temporary stressor, or related to more long-term problems, therapy can help and I look forward to working with you. I work with adults, adolescents, families and couples.
(410) 412-3605 View (410) 412-3605
Photo of Mohamed Alhedai, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mohamed Alhedai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144
I believe all individuals have within themselves the power and ability to make changes. Are you facing any difficulties and would like to explore, gain insight, and resolve? I can help support and guide you through unresolved issues, presenting concerns to find ways to strengthen your coping skills, adapt and improve your quality of life. I believe in a client-centered approach which values the strengths, experiences, and power within us. I am experienced in working with clients who have experienced adversity and are suffering from variety of psychological and behavioral issues
I believe all individuals have within themselves the power and ability to make changes. Are you facing any difficulties and would like to explore, gain insight, and resolve? I can help support and guide you through unresolved issues, presenting concerns to find ways to strengthen your coping skills, adapt and improve your quality of life. I believe in a client-centered approach which values the strengths, experiences, and power within us. I am experienced in working with clients who have experienced adversity and are suffering from variety of psychological and behavioral issues
(667) 222-6295 View (667) 222-6295
Photo of Amy Smith, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Severn, MD 21144  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or the uncertainty in your life? Current stressors or past negative experiences play a role in shaping our perspective. What if you could gain clarity and insight where you feel stuck? If you have experienced trauma, it alters neural pathways, making it harder to process experiences, regulate emotions, and cope with stress. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship struggles, or life transitions, I’m here to provide a safe space and practical tools.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or the uncertainty in your life? Current stressors or past negative experiences play a role in shaping our perspective. What if you could gain clarity and insight where you feel stuck? If you have experienced trauma, it alters neural pathways, making it harder to process experiences, regulate emotions, and cope with stress. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship struggles, or life transitions, I’m here to provide a safe space and practical tools.
(410) 304-7078 View (410) 304-7078
Photo of Jenna Baldwin, LCPC
Jenna Baldwin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severn, MD 21144
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life or trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts? It’s completely normal to face struggles, whether they stem from transitions, relationship challenges, or deeper emotional battles. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. There’s support available to help you regain your footing and rediscover joy. I aim to create a compassionate and safe environment where you can express yourself openly. Together, we will explore your unique experiences, identify unhelpful patterns, and cultivate the tools you need to foster resilience and well-being.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life or trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts? It’s completely normal to face struggles, whether they stem from transitions, relationship challenges, or deeper emotional battles. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. There’s support available to help you regain your footing and rediscover joy. I aim to create a compassionate and safe environment where you can express yourself openly. Together, we will explore your unique experiences, identify unhelpful patterns, and cultivate the tools you need to foster resilience and well-being.
(443) 830-3664 View (443) 830-3664
Photo of Carrie Boone, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severn, MD 21144  (Online Only)
Whenever life’s challenges get to be overwhelming, it is ok to ask for help. I believe that we all possess inner strength and resilience that once channeled, can improve our lives in a positive way. I utilize a strengths-based and collaborative approach to assist others in recognizing challenges and formulating plans to overcome them. I am a Certified Grief Informed Professional and experienced in working with a diverse population of individuals to help them navigate complex issues such as: anxiety, depression, lack of assertiveness skills, low self-esteem, negative thinking and behaving, stress management, and grief and loss.
Whenever life’s challenges get to be overwhelming, it is ok to ask for help. I believe that we all possess inner strength and resilience that once channeled, can improve our lives in a positive way. I utilize a strengths-based and collaborative approach to assist others in recognizing challenges and formulating plans to overcome them. I am a Certified Grief Informed Professional and experienced in working with a diverse population of individuals to help them navigate complex issues such as: anxiety, depression, lack of assertiveness skills, low self-esteem, negative thinking and behaving, stress management, and grief and loss.
(667) 243-8576 View (667) 243-8576
Photo of Deondra Smith - Breakthrough Therapeutic Concepts, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Breakthrough Therapeutic Concepts, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144
BTConcepts is a group private, practice located in Anne Arundel County. We believe that every client, regardless of age, ethnicity/race, religion/spirituality, clinical presentation, or any cultural difference deserves to heard, respected and understood. At BTConcepts, we strive to uphold therapeutic values such as empathy, genuineness and respect, in the work that we do with our clients. As our client, we want you to feel a part of your therapeutic journey and empowered to continue the work once therapy has ended. It is important that you recognize that "YOU" are the pilot behind the wheel called life, and that we are your co-pilot! If you are stuck? Searching for answers? Desiring clarity? We can help!
BTConcepts is a group private, practice located in Anne Arundel County. We believe that every client, regardless of age, ethnicity/race, religion/spirituality, clinical presentation, or any cultural difference deserves to heard, respected and understood. At BTConcepts, we strive to uphold therapeutic values such as empathy, genuineness and respect, in the work that we do with our clients. As our client, we want you to feel a part of your therapeutic journey and empowered to continue the work once therapy has ended. It is important that you recognize that "YOU" are the pilot behind the wheel called life, and that we are your co-pilot! If you are stuck? Searching for answers? Desiring clarity? We can help!
(667) 303-2983 View (667) 303-2983
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
Severn, MD 21144
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 Dana Carcamo, MS, LGPC, Counselor
Dana Carcamo
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144
Are you facing challenges in your relationship? Are you currently grappling with grief? Are you in a period of transition and seeking guidance for your next step? Are you looking to navigate past hurt and trauma to grow and reach your full potential? Do you struggle with negative thoughts and need tools to persevere?
Are you facing challenges in your relationship? Are you currently grappling with grief? Are you in a period of transition and seeking guidance for your next step? Are you looking to navigate past hurt and trauma to grow and reach your full potential? Do you struggle with negative thoughts and need tools to persevere?
(443) 233-0624 View (443) 233-0624
Photo of Miranda DeMers, LGPC, Counselor
Miranda DeMers
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severn, MD 21144  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I employ motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, rational-emotive, and attachment-based techniques among others to help you make meaningful progress toward your goals and create a life you're happy to be living.
Hello, and welcome! Seeking mental health care can be a difficult process for many reasons, and I'd be honored to stand with you on your journey. I offer client-centered care, meaning I see everyone as an individual with strengths, passions, and unique experiences- not as just their concerns or struggles. We focus on your personal goals and what you want for your life to help you get where you want to be (or to figure out where you want to be!) no matter your starting point. I have experience with adults living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use/addiction, and family-of-origin concerns.
I employ motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, rational-emotive, and attachment-based techniques among others to help you make meaningful progress toward your goals and create a life you're happy to be living.
Hello, and welcome! Seeking mental health care can be a difficult process for many reasons, and I'd be honored to stand with you on your journey. I offer client-centered care, meaning I see everyone as an individual with strengths, passions, and unique experiences- not as just their concerns or struggles. We focus on your personal goals and what you want for your life to help you get where you want to be (or to figure out where you want to be!) no matter your starting point. I have experience with adults living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use/addiction, and family-of-origin concerns.
(410) 834-4830 View (410) 834-4830

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Logan Ross, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Logan Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hanover, MD 21076
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.
(240) 502-3066 View (240) 502-3066
Photo of Quizzina Forney - Bon Ridge Wellness, LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bon Ridge Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hanover, MD 21076  (Online Only)
Some of the interventions used include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Motivational Interviewing and other evidence-practice interventions.
You can feel better and live a more satisfying life! We are looking to work with clients focused upon personal growth, recovery, and healing. Bon Ridge Wellness (BRW), LLC is a behavioral health group that serves individuals who suffer from mental health disorders. Bon Ridge Wellness operates exclusive online on a virtual platform. BRW comprises of a group of licensed mental health professionals from various disciplines (i.e. Social Workers, Professional Counselors, Psych Nurse Practitioner). Our psychiatric nurse practitioner offers medication prescription and management to Medicaid clients.
Some of the interventions used include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Motivational Interviewing and other evidence-practice interventions.
You can feel better and live a more satisfying life! We are looking to work with clients focused upon personal growth, recovery, and healing. Bon Ridge Wellness (BRW), LLC is a behavioral health group that serves individuals who suffer from mental health disorders. Bon Ridge Wellness operates exclusive online on a virtual platform. BRW comprises of a group of licensed mental health professionals from various disciplines (i.e. Social Workers, Professional Counselors, Psych Nurse Practitioner). Our psychiatric nurse practitioner offers medication prescription and management to Medicaid clients.
(410) 431-1906 View (410) 431-1906
Photo of Tina M Bullock, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina M Bullock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hanover, MD 21076
I uses various types of treatment approaches to influence progress, which includes Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Solution focused and Motivational Interviewing.
As a licensed master social worker, I draw from a variety of frameworks with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy by using a strengths-based and empowerment approach. I specialize in working with clients who have issues related to transitions into adulthood, indecisiveness, self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships. I collaborate with clients to help them develop effective coping mechanisms, and accomplish personal goals.
I uses various types of treatment approaches to influence progress, which includes Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Solution focused and Motivational Interviewing.
As a licensed master social worker, I draw from a variety of frameworks with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy by using a strengths-based and empowerment approach. I specialize in working with clients who have issues related to transitions into adulthood, indecisiveness, self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships. I collaborate with clients to help them develop effective coping mechanisms, and accomplish personal goals.
(443) 241-3246 View (443) 241-3246
Photo of Emily Coco, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Coco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hanover, MD 21076
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.
(240) 240-6079 View (240) 240-6079
Photo of Johanté Wood, LCPC
Johanté Wood
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hanover, MD 21076
My ideal client would be someone either navigating life stressors, anxiety, or depression. My client is someone hoping to reconnect with their strengths as well as create a better balance in their life. My client could potentially be experiencing trauma or issues with attachment concerns and relationships. My client expresses their goals of needing to manage emotions better, find balance within their routine, and build more confidence, which is helpful for communication of desires/ interests. The client wants to accomplish these goals for the first time or as a result of transition/trauma.
My ideal client would be someone either navigating life stressors, anxiety, or depression. My client is someone hoping to reconnect with their strengths as well as create a better balance in their life. My client could potentially be experiencing trauma or issues with attachment concerns and relationships. My client expresses their goals of needing to manage emotions better, find balance within their routine, and build more confidence, which is helpful for communication of desires/ interests. The client wants to accomplish these goals for the first time or as a result of transition/trauma.
(240) 594-8061 View (240) 594-8061
Photo of Antoinette Fobbs, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antoinette Fobbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hanover, MD 21076
My ideal client would be a mom or wife, an individual who does not have any coping skills and blames themselves for things that are out of their control, such as anxiety, depression, unstable mood, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, lack of motivation, & no insight in their situation. Their needs would be support, empathy, understanding, and active listening. They have goals to work on themselves, improve communication skills, increase coping skills, and alleviate anxiety and depressive symptoms. The client would want to change and work on themselves to become better and stronger individuals for themselves & their families.
My ideal client would be a mom or wife, an individual who does not have any coping skills and blames themselves for things that are out of their control, such as anxiety, depression, unstable mood, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, lack of motivation, & no insight in their situation. Their needs would be support, empathy, understanding, and active listening. They have goals to work on themselves, improve communication skills, increase coping skills, and alleviate anxiety and depressive symptoms. The client would want to change and work on themselves to become better and stronger individuals for themselves & their families.
(301) 477-9362 View (301) 477-9362
Photo of Venus Ahmadi, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT, Counselor
Venus Ahmadi
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at the group practice Eclectic Therapy Collective (ETC). ETC is a collective group of clinicians who identify as using an eclectic approach in treatment. This means that I integrate multiple therapy techniques in sessions to individualize treatment for each client. I have been a clinician for over 6+ years, and belief in the value of a strong therapeutic alliance for the success of therapy and prioritize creating a trusting, safe, and nonjudgmental environment for clients to feel comfortable opening up and work through whatever .
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at the group practice Eclectic Therapy Collective (ETC). ETC is a collective group of clinicians who identify as using an eclectic approach in treatment. This means that I integrate multiple therapy techniques in sessions to individualize treatment for each client. I have been a clinician for over 6+ years, and belief in the value of a strong therapeutic alliance for the success of therapy and prioritize creating a trusting, safe, and nonjudgmental environment for clients to feel comfortable opening up and work through whatever .
(443) 665-0938 x1 View (443) 665-0938 x1

See more therapy options for Severn

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.