Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Westfield, NJ

Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
He has worked with adults, individuals, groups and couples and continues to provide psychotherapy with approaches including but not limited to Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
He has worked with adults, individuals, groups and couples and continues to provide psychotherapy with approaches including but not limited to Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(908) 258-6462 View (908) 258-6462
Photo of Trish Dooley Budsock, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trish Dooley Budsock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
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
Photo of Shani Muhammad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shani Muhammad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I use an eclectic approach while also including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Brief, or Motivational Interviewing.
My ideal client needs help with the services I specialize in. I typically consider the client's current habits and strengths to guide us on where to start goal setting. Showing up to therapy is a huge step, and I commend any client who takes that initiative.
I use an eclectic approach while also including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Brief, or Motivational Interviewing.
My ideal client needs help with the services I specialize in. I typically consider the client's current habits and strengths to guide us on where to start goal setting. Showing up to therapy is a huge step, and I commend any client who takes that initiative.
(908) 867-9924 View (908) 867-9924
Photo of Brittany Barnstead, LPC, ATR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Barnstead
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, NCC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
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 Josh Levine, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josh Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
My approach integrates a variety of therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Problem-Solving Therapy, and various trauma-focused interventions.
I know that it isn’t always easy deciding to see a therapist, but I’m glad you made it to my page. I’m a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Whether you’re dealing with acute symptoms or long-standing issues, I am here to provide a safe, empathetic, and effective therapeutic environment. I view the therapeutic relationship as a shared experience, and my goals are to help you meet your goals.
My approach integrates a variety of therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Problem-Solving Therapy, and various trauma-focused interventions.
I know that it isn’t always easy deciding to see a therapist, but I’m glad you made it to my page. I’m a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Whether you’re dealing with acute symptoms or long-standing issues, I am here to provide a safe, empathetic, and effective therapeutic environment. I view the therapeutic relationship as a shared experience, and my goals are to help you meet your goals.
(646) 687-2876 View (646) 687-2876
Photo of Blake Kirschner, PsyD, Psychologist
Blake Kirschner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07091
I have trained in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
If you are struggling with something, no matter how big or small, I invite you to join me in working towards the changes you deserve. My practice is science-informed and client-centered, meaning I tailor my approach to the specific needs of each individual person. Every one of my clients is treated with professionalism and extra doses of empathy and compassion. We are all human, after all! Even in difficult circumstances, I have been amazed and humbled by my client's ability to learn and grow.
I have trained in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
If you are struggling with something, no matter how big or small, I invite you to join me in working towards the changes you deserve. My practice is science-informed and client-centered, meaning I tailor my approach to the specific needs of each individual person. Every one of my clients is treated with professionalism and extra doses of empathy and compassion. We are all human, after all! Even in difficult circumstances, I have been amazed and humbled by my client's ability to learn and grow.
(973) 718-2292 View (973) 718-2292
Photo of David A Aichroth - David Aichroth LLC, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, AMTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Aichroth LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, AMTP
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
In therapy I use evidenced base treatment including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 12-step based work, and Mindfulness, both formal and informal.
Currently accepting new clients - Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with gambling, alcohol, drug, shopping addiction? If so, don't hesitate to call. I am both a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor in the state of NJ. My 23 years of experience is primarily focused on treating individuals and families struggling with mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.) and or addiction.
In therapy I use evidenced base treatment including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 12-step based work, and Mindfulness, both formal and informal.
Currently accepting new clients - Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with gambling, alcohol, drug, shopping addiction? If so, don't hesitate to call. I am both a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor in the state of NJ. My 23 years of experience is primarily focused on treating individuals and families struggling with mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.) and or addiction.
(973) 577-4374 View (973) 577-4374
Photo of Jennifer Vivoli - Mind Body Spirit Therapy, LLC, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mind Body Spirit Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
Your healing experience may include; Mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, Psychodynamic and Strengths Based Psychotherapies, Motivational Interviewing, Guided and Embodied Mediations, Breath Awareness, DBT, Energy Medicine.
I'm here to help you manifest the life you desire. I am a Psychotherapist, Somatic Coach and Yoga Teacher who combine holistic and modern treatment modalities specializing in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Trauma, OCD, ADHD, Anxiety and more. I provide an empowerment based approach to healing by taking traditional therapeutic techniques, combining them with yoga, mindfulness, polyvagal, sound therapy, breath work, energy medicine and embodied mediation. I believe that by learning to care for your mind, body and soul you do anything. It is my mission to safely guide you through the process as you journey towards wholehearted self-love.
Your healing experience may include; Mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, Psychodynamic and Strengths Based Psychotherapies, Motivational Interviewing, Guided and Embodied Mediations, Breath Awareness, DBT, Energy Medicine.
I'm here to help you manifest the life you desire. I am a Psychotherapist, Somatic Coach and Yoga Teacher who combine holistic and modern treatment modalities specializing in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Trauma, OCD, ADHD, Anxiety and more. I provide an empowerment based approach to healing by taking traditional therapeutic techniques, combining them with yoga, mindfulness, polyvagal, sound therapy, breath work, energy medicine and embodied mediation. I believe that by learning to care for your mind, body and soul you do anything. It is my mission to safely guide you through the process as you journey towards wholehearted self-love.
(908) 838-9480 View (908) 838-9480
Photo of Melissa Jones, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing Techniques.
Finding a therapist that you can trust is important. In my experience, I recognize that so many of us are unfairly hard on ourselves, and I seek to help empower people within a supportive space. I am a strong believer in people's strengths, potential for growth, healing and self-realization. I specialize in working with people who tend to shut down or look for quick comfort when facing the stress and challenges of life. I help my clients understand their triggers and learn new coping skills that help them feel healthier and more confident.
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing Techniques.
Finding a therapist that you can trust is important. In my experience, I recognize that so many of us are unfairly hard on ourselves, and I seek to help empower people within a supportive space. I am a strong believer in people's strengths, potential for growth, healing and self-realization. I specialize in working with people who tend to shut down or look for quick comfort when facing the stress and challenges of life. I help my clients understand their triggers and learn new coping skills that help them feel healthier and more confident.
(732) 936-7306 View (732) 936-7306
Photo of Meghan Quinlan-Ilich, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meghan Quinlan-Ilich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090  (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 Viktorija Spasova - Viktorija Spasova, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Viktorija Spasova, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
I am trauma-focused and I work with modalities such as Psychodynamic and Interpersonal approach, Strength Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and others.
Since I can remember, I've wanted to be in this profession working on helping improve the lives of others. I've been in the field of social work for the last six years providing therapy to people from all walks of life. Have you experienced anything traumatic and its been affecting your daily functioning? Are you a young adult who has a hard time accepting a diagnosis or struggling to find your place in the world? Has your loved one been diagnosed with persistent and severe mental illness? Is your anxiety/depression keeping you from working on your goals? If so, you are not alone. Connect with me to see how we can work together.
I am trauma-focused and I work with modalities such as Psychodynamic and Interpersonal approach, Strength Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and others.
Since I can remember, I've wanted to be in this profession working on helping improve the lives of others. I've been in the field of social work for the last six years providing therapy to people from all walks of life. Have you experienced anything traumatic and its been affecting your daily functioning? Are you a young adult who has a hard time accepting a diagnosis or struggling to find your place in the world? Has your loved one been diagnosed with persistent and severe mental illness? Is your anxiety/depression keeping you from working on your goals? If so, you are not alone. Connect with me to see how we can work together.
(908) 224-7180 View (908) 224-7180
Photo of Jacqueline Finch, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Finch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I believe that therapy's primary goal is to help a person reach their best and most balanced self. While therapy can be emotional work, it can also be one of the best gifts we can provide ourselves.
I believe that therapy's primary goal is to help a person reach their best and most balanced self. While therapy can be emotional work, it can also be one of the best gifts we can provide ourselves.
(201) 579-0603 View (201) 579-0603
Photo of Jennifer Stradling - Jennifer Stradling (adolescent/teen specialist), MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Stradling (adolescent/teen specialist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
(908) 460-7103 View (908) 460-7103
Photo of Rachel Brooks, LSWC
Rachel Brooks
Licensed Social Worker , LSWC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I'm here to help you navigate life's challenges and create lasting, positive change. As a licensed social worker, I understand the significance of building strong relationships and their transformative power.
I'm here to help you navigate life's challenges and create lasting, positive change. As a licensed social worker, I understand the significance of building strong relationships and their transformative power.
(908) 529-0931 View (908) 529-0931
Photo of Caneel Schipper, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Caneel Schipper
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My ideal client is curious about themselves and the world and actively participates in the therapeutic process. I enjoy working with young adults and older adults, but I'm not limited to these populations. My ideal client is at a place of feeling "stuck" in their life. Whether that be a career transition, deciding on a college major, feeling lost in a relationship, or a new onset of symptoms. I am also comfortable with helping individuals unpack their past to understand their current habits. My ideal client wants to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to develop self-awareness and self-compassion along the way.
My ideal client is curious about themselves and the world and actively participates in the therapeutic process. I enjoy working with young adults and older adults, but I'm not limited to these populations. My ideal client is at a place of feeling "stuck" in their life. Whether that be a career transition, deciding on a college major, feeling lost in a relationship, or a new onset of symptoms. I am also comfortable with helping individuals unpack their past to understand their current habits. My ideal client wants to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to develop self-awareness and self-compassion along the way.
(908) 946-2972 View (908) 946-2972
Photo of Christina James, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I believe that everyone deserves to have a space where they can be vulnerable and feel understood. Starting treatment can be hard, but I encourage you to give therapy a chance to engage in an experience that can be transformative, powerful, and healing.
I believe that everyone deserves to have a space where they can be vulnerable and feel understood. Starting treatment can be hard, but I encourage you to give therapy a chance to engage in an experience that can be transformative, powerful, and healing.
(908) 676-6264 View (908) 676-6264
Photo of Michele R Smith, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele R Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Discover the real reasons behind your eating, weight, and body image issues. Do you hate your job and binge eat at night? Are you compensating for poor relationships with food? Do you hate getting dressed each morning? It's time to take a deeper look. As a Psychological Counselor, I am trained to get to the root of your eating and body image challenges. We all turn to food for so many reasons that have nothing to do with hunger. Make peace with food and your body. Learn to cope with your emotions and discover what you're really hungry for!
Discover the real reasons behind your eating, weight, and body image issues. Do you hate your job and binge eat at night? Are you compensating for poor relationships with food? Do you hate getting dressed each morning? It's time to take a deeper look. As a Psychological Counselor, I am trained to get to the root of your eating and body image challenges. We all turn to food for so many reasons that have nothing to do with hunger. Make peace with food and your body. Learn to cope with your emotions and discover what you're really hungry for!
(908) 386-4571 View (908) 386-4571
Photo of Michelle Barber, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I believe strongly that clients come in all different shapes and sizes and from different walks of life. Therefore, I do not have an ideal client, as my wish is to help anyone who needs it regardless of their experiences, needs, and goals. I welcome the experiences I will gain from having diverse clients.
I believe strongly that clients come in all different shapes and sizes and from different walks of life. Therefore, I do not have an ideal client, as my wish is to help anyone who needs it regardless of their experiences, needs, and goals. I welcome the experiences I will gain from having diverse clients.
(908) 923-3257 View (908) 923-3257
Photo of Cassaundra Bracken, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassaundra Bracken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My ideal client is at a place where they are ready and willing to accept their issues and want to do therapeutic work. They may have issues with depression, anxiety, or substance use. They may need to work on self-acceptance, medication management, or developing and implementing coping skills.
My ideal client is at a place where they are ready and willing to accept their issues and want to do therapeutic work. They may have issues with depression, anxiety, or substance use. They may need to work on self-acceptance, medication management, or developing and implementing coping skills.
(908) 212-9921 View (908) 212-9921
Photo of Kamary Serrano, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kamary Serrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I enjoy working with clients who are willing to work with me to get them to where they can thrive in life. I especially enjoy working with clients who are open to exploring their past and exploring how they can use that information to better understand themselves on a deeper level. My ideal client wants to improve and change to have a more fulfilling life. I enjoy providing clients with the safe and compassionate environment they might need to process their emotions and past trauma to help begin creating a life worth living.
I enjoy working with clients who are willing to work with me to get them to where they can thrive in life. I especially enjoy working with clients who are open to exploring their past and exploring how they can use that information to better understand themselves on a deeper level. My ideal client wants to improve and change to have a more fulfilling life. I enjoy providing clients with the safe and compassionate environment they might need to process their emotions and past trauma to help begin creating a life worth living.
(908) 258-9904 View (908) 258-9904
1
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.