Motivational Interviewing Therapists in New Providence, NJ

Photo of Jay Sandys, PhD, LCSW-R, ACC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Sandys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-R, ACC
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974
My practice is further informed by training in psycho-dynamic theory, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
If you are dealing with grief or trauma, you're in the right place. My warm, forthright, collaborative, and interactive style can help you to frame your concerns in a safe space, and to overcome your acute symptoms so you can move beyond the traumatic event or loss. I partner with clients to work towards solutions.
My practice is further informed by training in psycho-dynamic theory, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
If you are dealing with grief or trauma, you're in the right place. My warm, forthright, collaborative, and interactive style can help you to frame your concerns in a safe space, and to overcome your acute symptoms so you can move beyond the traumatic event or loss. I partner with clients to work towards solutions.
(908) 975-1453 View (908) 975-1453
Photo of Joseph E Ochs, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph E Ochs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974  (Online Only)
My clients are individuals / couples struggling with: personal relationships, family issues, career management, addictions / substance abuse, personality disorders, depression / anxiety / debilitating disorders. I assist clients in spiritual development / enhancement of life-style, using cognitive behavioral / eclectic counseling. I have counseling / managerial experience in the social services field plus 20 years business management experience in the private/public sectors. In addition to my MA from Seton Hall University in Counselor Education, I have graduate credits in Alternative Dispute Resolution from Rutgers University. I am a NJ State Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and NBCC Board certified as a National Certified Counselor (NCC).
My clients are individuals / couples struggling with: personal relationships, family issues, career management, addictions / substance abuse, personality disorders, depression / anxiety / debilitating disorders. I assist clients in spiritual development / enhancement of life-style, using cognitive behavioral / eclectic counseling. I have counseling / managerial experience in the social services field plus 20 years business management experience in the private/public sectors. In addition to my MA from Seton Hall University in Counselor Education, I have graduate credits in Alternative Dispute Resolution from Rutgers University. I am a NJ State Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and NBCC Board certified as a National Certified Counselor (NCC).
(732) 333-8964 View (732) 333-8964
Photo of Sarah Strumeier, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Strumeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
New Providence, NJ 07974
I am in-network with Aetna, Horizon BCBS, United, Oxford, UMR and Lyra. Grief is deeply personal. In times of loss, you deserve to be seen, heard, and validated no matter what shape or form it comes in. Maybe you recently lost a loved one. The stress of interpersonal relationships or career shifts might be weighing heavy on you. Or perhaps postpartum and adjusting to parenthood is harder than you expected it to be. It may not feel like it right now, but you aren’t alone — therapy is a safe space to share your story.
I am in-network with Aetna, Horizon BCBS, United, Oxford, UMR and Lyra. Grief is deeply personal. In times of loss, you deserve to be seen, heard, and validated no matter what shape or form it comes in. Maybe you recently lost a loved one. The stress of interpersonal relationships or career shifts might be weighing heavy on you. Or perhaps postpartum and adjusting to parenthood is harder than you expected it to be. It may not feel like it right now, but you aren’t alone — therapy is a safe space to share your story.
(862) 263-9720 View (862) 263-9720
Photo of Katie Bowler, LCSW, MSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Bowler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Katie and I'm a DBT Therapist. I specialize in working with adults & teens (12+) struggling with mood disorders, depression, self-harm, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, personality disorders and overall life changes. DBT teaches concrete & useful coping skills to replace negative behaviors with positive skills. It is an amazing therapy modality to 'do something different'. I also work with clients who identify as a mother including postpartum depression & anxiety, pregnancy, postpartum transition, pregnancy loss and PPD in spouses. I am also Certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) through PSI.
Hello! I'm Katie and I'm a DBT Therapist. I specialize in working with adults & teens (12+) struggling with mood disorders, depression, self-harm, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, personality disorders and overall life changes. DBT teaches concrete & useful coping skills to replace negative behaviors with positive skills. It is an amazing therapy modality to 'do something different'. I also work with clients who identify as a mother including postpartum depression & anxiety, pregnancy, postpartum transition, pregnancy loss and PPD in spouses. I am also Certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) through PSI.
(201) 584-8773 View (201) 584-8773
Photo of Rebecca Perlman Coniglio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Perlman Coniglio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974
I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I have daytime, evening, and weekend hours available. I enjoy working with a variety of clients, such as new and experienced parents, students going off to college, and individuals who are looking to boost their self-esteem. I specialize in helping people identify, understand, and cope with their anxiety. I also offer parent coaching and grief counseling. I am happy to be a resource in the New Providence and Berkeley Heights area.
I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I have daytime, evening, and weekend hours available. I enjoy working with a variety of clients, such as new and experienced parents, students going off to college, and individuals who are looking to boost their self-esteem. I specialize in helping people identify, understand, and cope with their anxiety. I also offer parent coaching and grief counseling. I am happy to be a resource in the New Providence and Berkeley Heights area.
(973) 317-8245 View (973) 317-8245
Photo of Milissa Aronson, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Milissa Aronson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Providence, NJ 07974
Feeling overwhelmed with everything you are managing right now? Feeling burned out from stress and life demands? Constantly measuring yourself against others? Do you always prioritize others' needs over your own and wonder who is taking care of you? Are you struggling with what you're feeling because you "should" feel great? Maybe everything was going great and then life threw you for a loop. Maybe these feelings are new. Maybe these are things you have felt for a long time and can't ignore any longer. No one has it all together and it is exhausting to try to pretend. You deserve more and can break these cycles.
Feeling overwhelmed with everything you are managing right now? Feeling burned out from stress and life demands? Constantly measuring yourself against others? Do you always prioritize others' needs over your own and wonder who is taking care of you? Are you struggling with what you're feeling because you "should" feel great? Maybe everything was going great and then life threw you for a loop. Maybe these feelings are new. Maybe these are things you have felt for a long time and can't ignore any longer. No one has it all together and it is exhausting to try to pretend. You deserve more and can break these cycles.
(908) 681-8262 View (908) 681-8262
Photo of Laura Tyson - Laura Tyson LCSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Tyson LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974  (Online Only)
I work with high-functioning professionals and executives who are anxious, stressed, depressed, unmotivated, irritable, struggling with life transitions, anger issues, interpersonal problems, or self-medicating with alcohol, marijuana, drugs, and/or problematic sexual behaviors. I work with adults dealing with narcissistic abuse, divorce, and high-conflict families. I offer confidential virtual therapy and a solution-oriented approach to reboot your life and become your best self. Let's map out a plan to get your life back on track. I'll help you navigate from surviving to thriving and from chaos to calm, in a judgment-free space.
I work with high-functioning professionals and executives who are anxious, stressed, depressed, unmotivated, irritable, struggling with life transitions, anger issues, interpersonal problems, or self-medicating with alcohol, marijuana, drugs, and/or problematic sexual behaviors. I work with adults dealing with narcissistic abuse, divorce, and high-conflict families. I offer confidential virtual therapy and a solution-oriented approach to reboot your life and become your best self. Let's map out a plan to get your life back on track. I'll help you navigate from surviving to thriving and from chaos to calm, in a judgment-free space.
(908) 224-7197 View (908) 224-7197
Photo of Lauren Pardo, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Pardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974
Welcome! You've taken the first step in your therapeutic journey as seeking a therapist can be a difficult decision. The unique relationship between client and therapist creates a safe, confidential environment where personal growth and healing of the client can occur. My goal is to provide a forum where you feel comfortable telling your story while simultaneously learning methods of change and insight into maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. I am well trained in theory and have a practical perspective approach that blends therapies in order to promote positive emotional well-being.
Welcome! You've taken the first step in your therapeutic journey as seeking a therapist can be a difficult decision. The unique relationship between client and therapist creates a safe, confidential environment where personal growth and healing of the client can occur. My goal is to provide a forum where you feel comfortable telling your story while simultaneously learning methods of change and insight into maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. I am well trained in theory and have a practical perspective approach that blends therapies in order to promote positive emotional well-being.
(908) 603-8387 View (908) 603-8387
Photo of Brianna Cheringal, LSW
Brianna Cheringal
Licensed Social Worker , LSW
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974
My ideal client is ready to address areas of their life in which they want to delve deeper into, whether it be past experiences or current stressors, we are in this together to figure out the best way forward. They are open to learning new techniques which could assist them in this process and open to exploring all aspects of life.
My ideal client is ready to address areas of their life in which they want to delve deeper into, whether it be past experiences or current stressors, we are in this together to figure out the best way forward. They are open to learning new techniques which could assist them in this process and open to exploring all aspects of life.
(908) 271-5676 View (908) 271-5676
Photo of Erin Colleen Guzman, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Colleen Guzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Providence, NJ 07974
Welcome to my corner of the internet! I aim to help clients find happiness and purpose in their day to day lives. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to help you identify tools that will help you more effectively navigate life's stressors. I will work with you to build a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and respect. My goal as a therapist is to empower my clients to create the space and strength to embrace their uniqueness and gifts. Client's often report that I am easy to talk to, which I'd say is a great starting point, because the client therapist fit is key.
Welcome to my corner of the internet! I aim to help clients find happiness and purpose in their day to day lives. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to help you identify tools that will help you more effectively navigate life's stressors. I will work with you to build a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and respect. My goal as a therapist is to empower my clients to create the space and strength to embrace their uniqueness and gifts. Client's often report that I am easy to talk to, which I'd say is a great starting point, because the client therapist fit is key.
(908) 774-2892 View (908) 774-2892
Photo of Paul Klouse, LAC, Counselor
Paul Klouse
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974
Life can be overwhelming at times. When events don’t go as planned or relationships fall apart, it can be helpful to process with a caring professional. As a Licensed Associate Counselor, I am an empathic listener who guides and empowers my clients to lead emotionally, relationally, and physically healthy lives.
Life can be overwhelming at times. When events don’t go as planned or relationships fall apart, it can be helpful to process with a caring professional. As a Licensed Associate Counselor, I am an empathic listener who guides and empowers my clients to lead emotionally, relationally, and physically healthy lives.
(908) 975-1554 View (908) 975-1554
Photo of Christine M. Valentín, LCSW, RPT™, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine M. Valentín
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT™
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
New Providence, NJ 07974
Welcome! I specialize in working with 3- 8 year old's, individuals 21+ and adult children concerned about an aging parent. As a Play therapist and Social worker with 14 years of experience, I offer my clients who live in NJ or NY, a space where they can feel safe to open up about their inner thoughts, build courage to face their fears and learn how to let go of things like anxiety, anger and anything else that is no longer serving their mental and Spiritual well-being. My approach to working with any client is to learn about the specifics of their struggle, listen to them with patience and guide them with curiosity and compassion.
Welcome! I specialize in working with 3- 8 year old's, individuals 21+ and adult children concerned about an aging parent. As a Play therapist and Social worker with 14 years of experience, I offer my clients who live in NJ or NY, a space where they can feel safe to open up about their inner thoughts, build courage to face their fears and learn how to let go of things like anxiety, anger and anything else that is no longer serving their mental and Spiritual well-being. My approach to working with any client is to learn about the specifics of their struggle, listen to them with patience and guide them with curiosity and compassion.
(718) 314-9280 View (718) 314-9280

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Meghan Quinlan-Ilich, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meghan Quinlan-Ilich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mountainside, NJ 07092  (Online Only)
I utilize Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Dynamics and Person Centered Therapy to create a plan that will best fit the individual client.
I have experience working with individuals, couples and families on issues related to addiction, infidelity and trust, self esteem, depression, anxiety, life changes, divorce, identifying goals, grief and loss as well as caregiver stress and elder adult issues and transitions. I have also worked with clients that are struggling with their identity, motivation and setting goals. I have experience with exposure response therapy to assist those with OCD. I also use trauma informed care to work with those who have experienced traumatic events from abuse to loss.
I utilize Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Dynamics and Person Centered Therapy to create a plan that will best fit the individual client.
I have experience working with individuals, couples and families on issues related to addiction, infidelity and trust, self esteem, depression, anxiety, life changes, divorce, identifying goals, grief and loss as well as caregiver stress and elder adult issues and transitions. I have also worked with clients that are struggling with their identity, motivation and setting goals. I have experience with exposure response therapy to assist those with OCD. I also use trauma informed care to work with those who have experienced traumatic events from abuse to loss.
(908) 224-4187 View (908) 224-4187
Photo of Margaret Hynes, LPC, LCADC, NCC, Counselor
Margaret Hynes
Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
I offer evidenced-based therapeutic approaches such as CBT, DBT and Motivational Interviewing.
Facing life's challenges takes courage and while there is always a path toward change, we sometimes need support along the way. Counseling can help increase self-awareness leading to healthier choices, effective coping skills and improved communication, elevating overall wellness and life satisfaction. Learning to manage anxiety and depression, coping with grief or trauma, family relationship conflict and recovery from substance abuse are common problems I work on with clients. Together, we can navigate what often seems overwhelming when faced alone.
I offer evidenced-based therapeutic approaches such as CBT, DBT and Motivational Interviewing.
Facing life's challenges takes courage and while there is always a path toward change, we sometimes need support along the way. Counseling can help increase self-awareness leading to healthier choices, effective coping skills and improved communication, elevating overall wellness and life satisfaction. Learning to manage anxiety and depression, coping with grief or trauma, family relationship conflict and recovery from substance abuse are common problems I work on with clients. Together, we can navigate what often seems overwhelming when faced alone.
(973) 381-1417 View (973) 381-1417
Photo of Marisa Lutz, LAMFT, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAMFT, LSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
We can delve into their core beliefs, thoughts, and coping mechanisms using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI).
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
We can delve into their core beliefs, thoughts, and coping mechanisms using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI).
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
(908) 873-3440 View (908) 873-3440
Photo of Nyree Tchalikian, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nyree Tchalikian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
Nyree utilizes a variety of cognitive and behavioral interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and SMART Recovery System.
With over 14 years of experience as a Mental Health professional, which includes a ten year role as a Senior Investigator with the Department of Children and Families, Nyree has experience dealing with domestic violence, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, impulse control, family issues, parenting skills, adolescent issues, substance abuse, trauma, panic disorder, self harm, and anger management. Drawing on this experience, she is currently serving as a private practitioner, helping her clients gain stability in their lives by better managing life's challenges, thereby creating the ability to identify distorted thinking and beliefs. Nyree is available for in office sessions and video conferencing.
Nyree utilizes a variety of cognitive and behavioral interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and SMART Recovery System.
With over 14 years of experience as a Mental Health professional, which includes a ten year role as a Senior Investigator with the Department of Children and Families, Nyree has experience dealing with domestic violence, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, impulse control, family issues, parenting skills, adolescent issues, substance abuse, trauma, panic disorder, self harm, and anger management. Drawing on this experience, she is currently serving as a private practitioner, helping her clients gain stability in their lives by better managing life's challenges, thereby creating the ability to identify distorted thinking and beliefs. Nyree is available for in office sessions and video conferencing.
(201) 549-9259 View (201) 549-9259
Photo of Stephanie Sabatini, MSW, LSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Sabatini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07901
My goal is to utilize a multidisciplinary approach, drawing aspects from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychoanalytic, and Humanistic modalities to help individuals reach their goals and improve their mental well-being.
Since earning my MSW from Monmouth University, I have worked in various capacities within emergency room psychiatric services, suicide prevention, research, and outpatient counseling, enabling me to gain experience working with individuals having a wide variety of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, and mood disorders. Through my work in several emergency room settings and outpatient care centers, I have familiarity treating diverse populations, including children, adults, families, LGBTQIA+, and individuals involved in the legal system.
My goal is to utilize a multidisciplinary approach, drawing aspects from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychoanalytic, and Humanistic modalities to help individuals reach their goals and improve their mental well-being.
Since earning my MSW from Monmouth University, I have worked in various capacities within emergency room psychiatric services, suicide prevention, research, and outpatient counseling, enabling me to gain experience working with individuals having a wide variety of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, and mood disorders. Through my work in several emergency room settings and outpatient care centers, I have familiarity treating diverse populations, including children, adults, families, LGBTQIA+, and individuals involved in the legal system.
(732) 561-5971 View (732) 561-5971
Photo of Brittany Barnstead, LPC, ATR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Barnstead
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, NCC
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
I specialize in anxiety and depression through CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and creative arts therapy.
My ideal client would be a child, adolescent, or adult with a degree of insight/self-awareness into their presenting issues and motivation to improve their mental health. My most prominent diagnoses specialties include anxiety and depression. I enjoy working with clients on interpersonal problems, building coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and changing mindset/ thought patterns. My ideal client's goals include increasing a sense of peace and acceptance, working towards change, and developing healthier habits to improve wellbeing. A client who wants to change and be a better version of themselves is willing to be challenged.
I specialize in anxiety and depression through CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and creative arts therapy.
My ideal client would be a child, adolescent, or adult with a degree of insight/self-awareness into their presenting issues and motivation to improve their mental health. My most prominent diagnoses specialties include anxiety and depression. I enjoy working with clients on interpersonal problems, building coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and changing mindset/ thought patterns. My ideal client's goals include increasing a sense of peace and acceptance, working towards change, and developing healthier habits to improve wellbeing. A client who wants to change and be a better version of themselves is willing to be challenged.
(908) 201-8303 View (908) 201-8303
Photo of Christina James, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I utilize motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, positive psychology, compassion-focused, and solution-focused therapy.
I do not have an ideal client since I have worked with all different populations. If I had to specify, I would want to work with an adult struggling with life’s challenges, such as adjusting to college, dealing with a breakup, struggling with self-esteem, managing family stressors, employment concerns, and/or substance abuse. This person would want to improve the quality of their life, process their thoughts, and work towards creating change to live a healthier and happier lifestyle. Their goal may be to improve their way of thinking, have extra support to process their thoughts with, and become the person they would like to be.
I utilize motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, positive psychology, compassion-focused, and solution-focused therapy.
I do not have an ideal client since I have worked with all different populations. If I had to specify, I would want to work with an adult struggling with life’s challenges, such as adjusting to college, dealing with a breakup, struggling with self-esteem, managing family stressors, employment concerns, and/or substance abuse. This person would want to improve the quality of their life, process their thoughts, and work towards creating change to live a healthier and happier lifestyle. Their goal may be to improve their way of thinking, have extra support to process their thoughts with, and become the person they would like to be.
(908) 350-0560 View (908) 350-0560
Photo of Trish Dooley Budsock, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trish Dooley Budsock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mountainside, NJ 07092
I welcome individuals who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, maladaptive coping, chronic pain, low self-esteem, complex trauma, and grief. Formal training in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and EMDR have been integral tools in my development as a therapist. I have the ability to engage with clients who are in distress, and my goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment where growth and solutions can emerge. I also have extensive experience in training mental health and other healthcare providers in a variety of therapeutic approaches.
I welcome individuals who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, maladaptive coping, chronic pain, low self-esteem, complex trauma, and grief. Formal training in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and EMDR have been integral tools in my development as a therapist. I have the ability to engage with clients who are in distress, and my goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment where growth and solutions can emerge. I also have extensive experience in training mental health and other healthcare providers in a variety of therapeutic approaches.
(908) 965-8272 View (908) 965-8272

See more therapy options for New Providence

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.