Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Pittsboro, NC

Photo of Casandra Juarez Rodriguez, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Casandra Juarez Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Not accepting new clients
Casandra uses a holistic approach in therapy that include Mindfulness, Solution-focused, Person-Centered therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
There is no one size fits all therapy modality for individuals, which is why I bring a holistic approach during sessions. Individuals adapt best when they feel comfortable and heard in a therapist-client relationship. My therapeutic approach focuses to be non-judgemental, solution-focused, and goal-oriented to best assist clients in feeling heard.
Casandra uses a holistic approach in therapy that include Mindfulness, Solution-focused, Person-Centered therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
There is no one size fits all therapy modality for individuals, which is why I bring a holistic approach during sessions. Individuals adapt best when they feel comfortable and heard in a therapist-client relationship. My therapeutic approach focuses to be non-judgemental, solution-focused, and goal-oriented to best assist clients in feeling heard.
(984) 205-5520 View (984) 205-5520
Photo of Linda Karcher, MSW, LCSW, CYT, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Karcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CYT, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
I am Certified in DBT, utilize CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and Energy Psychology.
Hamster wheel spinning in your head? I help adults going through life challenges find a sense of peace and productivity, moving from surviving to thriving. We often take the responsibility of the world on our shoulders. Put on your oxygen mask first. Selfish doesn't have to be a bad word. We will work collaboratively to determine your goals. Do you need time to process? Problem-solve? Learn emotional regulation & distress tolerance? Support & guidance? You want to be heard and feel comfortable and not judged. You will find compassion, validation & a positive/strength based approach with a good dose of humor.
I am Certified in DBT, utilize CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and Energy Psychology.
Hamster wheel spinning in your head? I help adults going through life challenges find a sense of peace and productivity, moving from surviving to thriving. We often take the responsibility of the world on our shoulders. Put on your oxygen mask first. Selfish doesn't have to be a bad word. We will work collaboratively to determine your goals. Do you need time to process? Problem-solve? Learn emotional regulation & distress tolerance? Support & guidance? You want to be heard and feel comfortable and not judged. You will find compassion, validation & a positive/strength based approach with a good dose of humor.
(919) 504-9173 View (919) 504-9173
Photo of Beth F Flack, MA, LPA, LCAS, Psychological Associate
Beth F Flack
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
My training and experience began with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Addictions Treatment with additional training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for Trauma Treatment.
As a therapist and human being, I believe understanding our emotions is important in all aspects of our lives. I truly enjoy getting to know how others experience emotions and can help in the identification and regulation of hurtful and unwanted emotions. I feel grateful to be able to offer you a therapeutic environment wherein you can discuss painful experiences, thoughts and emotions and learn to cope and resolve those experiences in safe space. I will help you learn and cope with difficult, intense emotions, grief, mood symptoms, and ineffective behaviors through warmth, acceptance, and gentle nudging towards change.
My training and experience began with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Addictions Treatment with additional training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for Trauma Treatment.
As a therapist and human being, I believe understanding our emotions is important in all aspects of our lives. I truly enjoy getting to know how others experience emotions and can help in the identification and regulation of hurtful and unwanted emotions. I feel grateful to be able to offer you a therapeutic environment wherein you can discuss painful experiences, thoughts and emotions and learn to cope and resolve those experiences in safe space. I will help you learn and cope with difficult, intense emotions, grief, mood symptoms, and ineffective behaviors through warmth, acceptance, and gentle nudging towards change.
(984) 223-8101 View (984) 223-8101
Photo of Melissa Graf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Graf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Making the decision to start a therapeutic relationship takes courage. I'm so glad you are here. I believe that the therapeutic relationship must be rooted in safety, trust, openness and collaboration. I believe we as humans have adapted based on a lifetime of experiences, and I strive to help each person embrace acceptance of the unique being that they are, while supporting motivation and goals toward change.
Welcome! Making the decision to start a therapeutic relationship takes courage. I'm so glad you are here. I believe that the therapeutic relationship must be rooted in safety, trust, openness and collaboration. I believe we as humans have adapted based on a lifetime of experiences, and I strive to help each person embrace acceptance of the unique being that they are, while supporting motivation and goals toward change.
(984) 223-6375 View (984) 223-6375
Photo of Danny Eller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danny Eller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
I am a licensed counselor and former IT professional, now helping adults and teens address ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other concerns. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence-based techniques to empower my clients with the skills to modify their thoughts and behaviors. Currently, I am offering in-person or via telehealth. To maintain balance in my personal and professional life, I have designated Monday through Friday, 8am to 1pm Eastern Time, as my available hours for counseling. I understand the importance of self-care and have reserved afternoons, evenings, and weekends for my family time.
I am a licensed counselor and former IT professional, now helping adults and teens address ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other concerns. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence-based techniques to empower my clients with the skills to modify their thoughts and behaviors. Currently, I am offering in-person or via telehealth. To maintain balance in my personal and professional life, I have designated Monday through Friday, 8am to 1pm Eastern Time, as my available hours for counseling. I understand the importance of self-care and have reserved afternoons, evenings, and weekends for my family time.
(469) 535-7657 View (469) 535-7657
Photo of Dr. Karen N Barbee, LCMHCS, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Karen N Barbee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312
My approach in working with you is strengths-based and based on the laws of attraction, our power to live more intentionally and more connected with the universe to create a life that we both desire and deserve. As humans, we all share the basic desires of love, wanting to be loved and self-fulfillment. Maybe you've been feeling burned out and at the end of your rope? You may have a strong desire to realize your potential and purpose, but don't know where to start. Well, you've definitely come to the right place. I offer counseling services and life coaching that is intentional and unique to your specific needs.
My approach in working with you is strengths-based and based on the laws of attraction, our power to live more intentionally and more connected with the universe to create a life that we both desire and deserve. As humans, we all share the basic desires of love, wanting to be loved and self-fulfillment. Maybe you've been feeling burned out and at the end of your rope? You may have a strong desire to realize your potential and purpose, but don't know where to start. Well, you've definitely come to the right place. I offer counseling services and life coaching that is intentional and unique to your specific needs.
(984) 538-9620 View (984) 538-9620
Photo of Carol McClelland, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Carol McClelland
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice helps people who are struggling with life situations or challenges find options, solutions, and resources. I offer a private, confidential telehealth therapy service that is geared toward addressing your personal issues in a supportive way that empowers change as quickly as possible. I provide a supportive atmosphere that fosters change and growth. I have 30 years of experience providing services to individuals with mental health and substance use disorders.
My practice helps people who are struggling with life situations or challenges find options, solutions, and resources. I offer a private, confidential telehealth therapy service that is geared toward addressing your personal issues in a supportive way that empowers change as quickly as possible. I provide a supportive atmosphere that fosters change and growth. I have 30 years of experience providing services to individuals with mental health and substance use disorders.
(984) 646-6522 View (984) 646-6522
Photo of Shay Alderman, LCMHC, NCC
Shay Alderman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312  (Online Only)
Humans are emotional beings. And our emotions affect our thinking, our sense of what is going on, and our actions. It is not a sign of disease to feel overwhelmed or angry, or to feel anxious and down at times. Or to feel numb, flat or blank. Or to have thoughts that seem “crazy." It is human. But it can be confusing, and lead to behaviors that aren’t helpful. I will collaborate with you to understand what you are feeling and how you might bring things into a more comfortable balance. I have a special interest and expertise working with anxiety disorders, with cardiac and chronic illness patients and people with thought disorders.
Humans are emotional beings. And our emotions affect our thinking, our sense of what is going on, and our actions. It is not a sign of disease to feel overwhelmed or angry, or to feel anxious and down at times. Or to feel numb, flat or blank. Or to have thoughts that seem “crazy." It is human. But it can be confusing, and lead to behaviors that aren’t helpful. I will collaborate with you to understand what you are feeling and how you might bring things into a more comfortable balance. I have a special interest and expertise working with anxiety disorders, with cardiac and chronic illness patients and people with thought disorders.
(984) 646-0697 View (984) 646-0697
Photo of Jenae Cox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenae Cox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312  (Online Only)
Hello there, I am a dedicated child clinician with a passionate focus on trauma-informed care. My mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children and adolescents who have experienced challenging life events.
Hello there, I am a dedicated child clinician with a passionate focus on trauma-informed care. My mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children and adolescents who have experienced challenging life events.
(980) 393-8852 View (980) 393-8852
Photo of Ashleigh R Glover - Chatham Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, MA, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Chatham Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312
At Chatham Counseling & Wellness, we enjoy working with people who are excited about changing & embracing the life they have always imagined. We pride ourselves in assisting women find themselves, whether that's through a clinical route and/or goal planning. We will help you embrace your journey through whatever challenges you may face currently in life, working through your past traumas and planning for a better future. Accepting people as their authentic selves with all of our flaws is important part of healing. We accept you as you are and welcome you to this journey of healing.
At Chatham Counseling & Wellness, we enjoy working with people who are excited about changing & embracing the life they have always imagined. We pride ourselves in assisting women find themselves, whether that's through a clinical route and/or goal planning. We will help you embrace your journey through whatever challenges you may face currently in life, working through your past traumas and planning for a better future. Accepting people as their authentic selves with all of our flaws is important part of healing. We accept you as you are and welcome you to this journey of healing.
(984) 265-8505 View (984) 265-8505
Photo of Eleanor Curtis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eleanor Curtis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice in North Carolina. My approach is trauma-informed and client-centered. I use elements of Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy depending on you as my client and your needs. Therapy is as individual as each client and is not a one size fits all process. I've worked with adults at all life stages, from young adulthood through senior citizenry. I want to work with you to find the best approach for you and your expectations of therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice in North Carolina. My approach is trauma-informed and client-centered. I use elements of Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy depending on you as my client and your needs. Therapy is as individual as each client and is not a one size fits all process. I've worked with adults at all life stages, from young adulthood through senior citizenry. I want to work with you to find the best approach for you and your expectations of therapy.
(704) 327-3079 View (704) 327-3079
Photo of Samantha Mahon, MS, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Mahon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27228
Women, despite being the foundation of our society (I am a little biased, of course), are often given too much stress to manage effectively. We have to be employees, mothers, wives, friends, daughters and sisters, just to name a few roles that we play. When there is friction or "conflict" in any one of these roles, life can get complicated. I am passionate about supporting women in our many phases of life. I also serve the Latino (Spanish-speaking) community in a culturally sensitive manner.
Women, despite being the foundation of our society (I am a little biased, of course), are often given too much stress to manage effectively. We have to be employees, mothers, wives, friends, daughters and sisters, just to name a few roles that we play. When there is friction or "conflict" in any one of these roles, life can get complicated. I am passionate about supporting women in our many phases of life. I also serve the Latino (Spanish-speaking) community in a culturally sensitive manner.
(919) 794-4799 View (919) 794-4799
Photo of Kayleen Schepper, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayleen Schepper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Taking the step to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I am glad you are here. My goal is to provide a safe space for self-exploration, change, and healing. I work with children, teenagers, and adults dealing with a variety of challenges, including painful feelings, emotional numbness, undesired behaviors, unhelpful thinking, mood challenges, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, interpersonal conflict, life changes, and ongoing stress. My approach is trauma-informed, strength-based, compassionate, collaborative, and empowering. I see you, I am here for you, and I believe in you.
Taking the step to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I am glad you are here. My goal is to provide a safe space for self-exploration, change, and healing. I work with children, teenagers, and adults dealing with a variety of challenges, including painful feelings, emotional numbness, undesired behaviors, unhelpful thinking, mood challenges, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, interpersonal conflict, life changes, and ongoing stress. My approach is trauma-informed, strength-based, compassionate, collaborative, and empowering. I see you, I am here for you, and I believe in you.
(833) 996-0443 View (833) 996-0443
Photo of Antonia Leonore Verhine, LCSW, LCASA, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antonia Leonore Verhine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27228
I am a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist associate, and certified integrative mental health provider who takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. Currently, I am going through training to become a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapy provider. I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues, such as anxiety and panic disorders, depression, personal growth and self-esteem, general relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), and Addiction and substance misuse.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist associate, and certified integrative mental health provider who takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. Currently, I am going through training to become a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapy provider. I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues, such as anxiety and panic disorders, depression, personal growth and self-esteem, general relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), and Addiction and substance misuse.
(984) 368-4697 View (984) 368-4697
Photo of Robin Tovell-Toubal, MEd, LMHC, LCMHC, Counselor
Robin Tovell-Toubal
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Some people seek counseling for emotional issues such as anxiety and depression associated with problems in work, school or family life. Other people enter counseling to help them heal and cope with traumatic events that have taken place in their lives. Counseling works by giving you clarity, support and the courage to move forward in your life.
Some people seek counseling for emotional issues such as anxiety and depression associated with problems in work, school or family life. Other people enter counseling to help them heal and cope with traumatic events that have taken place in their lives. Counseling works by giving you clarity, support and the courage to move forward in your life.
(984) 364-8496 View (984) 364-8496

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Levin, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Stephanie Levin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
EMDR (Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR), and ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), and also pull from DBT and Motivational Interviewing.
My approach to therapy begins with developing a strong rapport with the client. I work to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship through compassion, empathy, and support. You can expect a laid-back, nonjudgmental environment – perhaps even a bit of humor. Seeking therapy is a sign of strength that should be appreciated as such.
EMDR (Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR), and ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), and also pull from DBT and Motivational Interviewing.
My approach to therapy begins with developing a strong rapport with the client. I work to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship through compassion, empathy, and support. You can expect a laid-back, nonjudgmental environment – perhaps even a bit of humor. Seeking therapy is a sign of strength that should be appreciated as such.
(984) 422-3947 View (984) 422-3947
Photo of Jay Jayaraman, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Jayaraman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Not accepting new clients
My approach combines dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I am a queer, nonbinary person of color who provides therapy services in the Triangle. My goal is to provide affirming care that centers your unique experiences, challenges, and resiliency. I believe that each person is the expert of their own experience; my work is to provide support and tools to aid your healing process while building our genuine trust and connection. As an advocate for social justice, I am grounded in the understanding that institutional and social forces influence mental health. My approach welcomes clients to explore these in session along with everyday issues.
My approach combines dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I am a queer, nonbinary person of color who provides therapy services in the Triangle. My goal is to provide affirming care that centers your unique experiences, challenges, and resiliency. I believe that each person is the expert of their own experience; my work is to provide support and tools to aid your healing process while building our genuine trust and connection. As an advocate for social justice, I am grounded in the understanding that institutional and social forces influence mental health. My approach welcomes clients to explore these in session along with everyday issues.
(919) 351-6923 View (919) 351-6923
Photo of Christian Davis, MSW, LCSWA, LCAS, LRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christian Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCAS, LRT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and utilize a variety of other modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy.
Making the decision to pursue therapy can be the most challenging, yet rewarding steps you ever make towards healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), I strive to provide a warm, safe space to experience support and freedom from life’s many challenges. I specialize in working with individuals ages 18 and older who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance misuse, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, social skills, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, and faith issues.
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and utilize a variety of other modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy.
Making the decision to pursue therapy can be the most challenging, yet rewarding steps you ever make towards healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), I strive to provide a warm, safe space to experience support and freedom from life’s many challenges. I specialize in working with individuals ages 18 and older who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance misuse, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, social skills, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, and faith issues.
(919) 858-2977 View (919) 858-2977
Photo of Alexandria Bounds, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria Bounds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
Alex uses evidence-based practices including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectal behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and others.
Alex Bounds is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Addiction Specialist with over 5 years in the mental health field. Alex has found a passion for supporting people who struggle with ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, and life transitions. Alex is also an Addiction Specialist and has experience helping people create and maintain an effective recovery plan, as well as people treating people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder who want to increase their independence through coping skills and building resiliency. Alex received a Bachelor's and Master's in Social Work from Western Carolina University.
Alex uses evidence-based practices including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectal behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and others.
Alex Bounds is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Addiction Specialist with over 5 years in the mental health field. Alex has found a passion for supporting people who struggle with ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, and life transitions. Alex is also an Addiction Specialist and has experience helping people create and maintain an effective recovery plan, as well as people treating people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder who want to increase their independence through coping skills and building resiliency. Alex received a Bachelor's and Master's in Social Work from Western Carolina University.
(984) 223-4938 View (984) 223-4938
Photo of Alan W. Harper, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alan W. Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
My therapeutic practice draw from Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR.
Sometimes life is hard and you need help coping. Sometimes you get angry and you're not sure why or how to control it. Sometimes bad things happen and you can't get over it the way your friends and family expect you to. Maybe you don't really know what's going on, but you recognize that something isn't right. I want to help you figure out what isn't working in your life and get you to where you want to be.
My therapeutic practice draw from Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR.
Sometimes life is hard and you need help coping. Sometimes you get angry and you're not sure why or how to control it. Sometimes bad things happen and you can't get over it the way your friends and family expect you to. Maybe you don't really know what's going on, but you recognize that something isn't right. I want to help you figure out what isn't working in your life and get you to where you want to be.
(919) 267-2262 View (919) 267-2262
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.