Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Briarwood, NY

Photo of Dana Alexis Newton, LCSW, C-PD, C-DBT, C-SWHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Alexis Newton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-PD, C-DBT, C-SWHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Briarwood, NY 11435  (Online Only)
As a clinical social work therapist, my mission is to help individuals overcome the challenges of life stressors. I understand that these stressors can be overwhelming and debilitating, and I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space where my clients can explore their emotions and develop coping skills to improve their overall well-being. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe that each person has unique strengths and experiences that shape their individual journey, and I strive to honor these differences by tailoring treatment to meet their specific needs.
As a clinical social work therapist, my mission is to help individuals overcome the challenges of life stressors. I understand that these stressors can be overwhelming and debilitating, and I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space where my clients can explore their emotions and develop coping skills to improve their overall well-being. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe that each person has unique strengths and experiences that shape their individual journey, and I strive to honor these differences by tailoring treatment to meet their specific needs.
(929) 339-1896 View (929) 339-1896
Photo of Orlando Bosch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Orlando Bosch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Briarwood, NY 11435  (Online Only)
The individual can be struggling with life challenges that have left them feeling sad and despair while holding on to the status quo. Everyone wants the freedom to be themselves to reach their goals and dreams. I can assist with the process to improve emotional health no matter where you are in life. I work to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. And through the use of evidence based strategies, I can support with developing confidence and reinforcing mental toughness.
The individual can be struggling with life challenges that have left them feeling sad and despair while holding on to the status quo. Everyone wants the freedom to be themselves to reach their goals and dreams. I can assist with the process to improve emotional health no matter where you are in life. I work to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. And through the use of evidence based strategies, I can support with developing confidence and reinforcing mental toughness.
(929) 810-4941 View (929) 810-4941
Photo of Amanda Nelson - Empathic Touch Counseling Services, LCSW, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Empathic Touch Counseling Services, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Briarwood, NY 11435  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can be....overwhelming, to say the least. If you are looking for assistance in navigating through some of life's obstacles and are ready to unveil the best version of yourself, then you've come to the right place. I don't have an "ideal" client as everyone comes from different walks of life, but someone who is open-minded and willing to challenge themselves along this journey to positive mental health will undoubtedly have the best outcomes through our work together.
Sometimes life can be....overwhelming, to say the least. If you are looking for assistance in navigating through some of life's obstacles and are ready to unveil the best version of yourself, then you've come to the right place. I don't have an "ideal" client as everyone comes from different walks of life, but someone who is open-minded and willing to challenge themselves along this journey to positive mental health will undoubtedly have the best outcomes through our work together.
(718) 841-0580 View (718) 841-0580
Photo of Denisse Antonio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denisse Antonio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Briarwood, NY 11435  (Online Only)
Therapy is an opportunity to explore, learn, and understand one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s an opportunity to heal from painful emotions, memories, and trauma. I will foster a warm, supportive, collaborative, and safe environment in which to explore difficult topics, identify negative thinking patterns and/or behaviors, and process complex emotions. We will collaboratively develop coping skills, inner strengths, stability, self-awareness, and independence to live a better life.
Therapy is an opportunity to explore, learn, and understand one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s an opportunity to heal from painful emotions, memories, and trauma. I will foster a warm, supportive, collaborative, and safe environment in which to explore difficult topics, identify negative thinking patterns and/or behaviors, and process complex emotions. We will collaboratively develop coping skills, inner strengths, stability, self-awareness, and independence to live a better life.
(929) 547-7569 View (929) 547-7569
Photo of Andrea Losito, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Andrea Losito
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Briarwood, NY 11435  (Online Only)
Are you facing challenges with anxiety about transitioning to a new stage of life? Feeling depressed or stressed? You can feel better and see improvements in your life. I am a licensed psychotherapist trained in Creative Arts Therapy, and I work with people to help them through these types of challenges.
Are you facing challenges with anxiety about transitioning to a new stage of life? Feeling depressed or stressed? You can feel better and see improvements in your life. I am a licensed psychotherapist trained in Creative Arts Therapy, and I work with people to help them through these types of challenges.
(347) 906-5871 View (347) 906-5871
Photo of Ayah Issa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayah Issa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Briarwood, NY 11435  (Online Only)
It just won't stop. Life feels like a constant fight to stay above water. The sadness, the pain, the monotony of it all, is dragging you down. It's a constant fight against depression, but you aren't sure why. Once upon a time, you felt the possibility of happiness and joy, but now it's all about going through the motions, fighting against the sadness. And it's getting harder and harder to fake it. You're starting to wonder about the meaning of life; what the purpose of all of this is. You've tried coaching, talking to friends, maybe even some therapists, but nothing is sticking and you desperately need help getting out of this fog.
It just won't stop. Life feels like a constant fight to stay above water. The sadness, the pain, the monotony of it all, is dragging you down. It's a constant fight against depression, but you aren't sure why. Once upon a time, you felt the possibility of happiness and joy, but now it's all about going through the motions, fighting against the sadness. And it's getting harder and harder to fake it. You're starting to wonder about the meaning of life; what the purpose of all of this is. You've tried coaching, talking to friends, maybe even some therapists, but nothing is sticking and you desperately need help getting out of this fog.
(929) 203-7537 View (929) 203-7537

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicoleen Prince-Burrell, LMSW, CFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicoleen Prince-Burrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of modalities, including CBT, Attachment Focused-EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing.
Feeling overwhelmed? Is your job stress bleeding into other areas of your life? Maybe you’re thinking it may be time for a transition but are unsure. I understand the intricacies of being a working professional, including coping with workplace dynamics and stress, which can lead to mental health issues. I am here to guide you on your journey to improving your well-being through self-awareness and acceptance.
I utilize a variety of modalities, including CBT, Attachment Focused-EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing.
Feeling overwhelmed? Is your job stress bleeding into other areas of your life? Maybe you’re thinking it may be time for a transition but are unsure. I understand the intricacies of being a working professional, including coping with workplace dynamics and stress, which can lead to mental health issues. I am here to guide you on your journey to improving your well-being through self-awareness and acceptance.
(646) 849-6799 View (646) 849-6799
Photo of Lara Guida, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lara Guida
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
In my practice, I utilize various aspects of CBT, DBT skills, motivational interviewing, and narrative modalities.
My name is Lara Guida, LMSW (she/her/hers). I offer telehealth/virtual sessions for Wellness Psychotherapy Services. In my practice, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to unpack and understand what they are experiencing, and empower them to discover their strengths and recognize the tools they have that will help them achieve their potential. I focus on getting to know you as an individual, and in doing so, ensuring that the work we do together will utilize the right approach for you. I will best highlight your strengths and assist you in reaching your specific, unique goals.
In my practice, I utilize various aspects of CBT, DBT skills, motivational interviewing, and narrative modalities.
My name is Lara Guida, LMSW (she/her/hers). I offer telehealth/virtual sessions for Wellness Psychotherapy Services. In my practice, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to unpack and understand what they are experiencing, and empower them to discover their strengths and recognize the tools they have that will help them achieve their potential. I focus on getting to know you as an individual, and in doing so, ensuring that the work we do together will utilize the right approach for you. I will best highlight your strengths and assist you in reaching your specific, unique goals.
(347) 321-8386 View (347) 321-8386
Photo of Erin Healy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of theoretical approaches including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relational therapy.
Throughout my career treating those with substance abuse and mental health issues, I have learned that one of therapy's most healing aspects is the relationship and trust we build with one another. I strive to create a space where you can be your authentic self without judgment because when that is possible the work of healing can begin.
I utilize a combination of theoretical approaches including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relational therapy.
Throughout my career treating those with substance abuse and mental health issues, I have learned that one of therapy's most healing aspects is the relationship and trust we build with one another. I strive to create a space where you can be your authentic self without judgment because when that is possible the work of healing can begin.
(646) 849-6876 View (646) 849-6876
Photo of Tantenisha James, LMHC, Counselor
Tantenisha James
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jamaica, NY 11435  (Online Only)
I graduated from Pace University with my Master's Degree as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy as each individual has specific treatment needs as each person's experiences and the emotional impact of those experiences are unique to that individual. This is why my theoretical approach is humanistic and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Adler, and Gestalt.
I graduated from Pace University with my Master's Degree as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy as each individual has specific treatment needs as each person's experiences and the emotional impact of those experiences are unique to that individual. This is why my theoretical approach is humanistic and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Adler, and Gestalt.
(585) 440-7934 View (585) 440-7934
Photo of Victoria Pearson - Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling PLLC, LMHC, LPC, CASAC, Counselor
Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11412
With cultural sensitivity and compassion, we are client-centered and use eclectic interventions: Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Structured Family Recovery Counseling, Family Systems Therapy, (FST), Play Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy to achieve the best results.
These past two years have been difficult and everyone needs a safe place to talk about how they feel. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides that safe place. We are dedicated, licensed professions who want to help you get through these difficult times and adjust to the new normal. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides compassionate, professional counseling services from Therapists dedicated to helping you heal and grow. We are a grass roots practice with courteous staff and affordable pricing.
With cultural sensitivity and compassion, we are client-centered and use eclectic interventions: Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Structured Family Recovery Counseling, Family Systems Therapy, (FST), Play Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy to achieve the best results.
These past two years have been difficult and everyone needs a safe place to talk about how they feel. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides that safe place. We are dedicated, licensed professions who want to help you get through these difficult times and adjust to the new normal. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides compassionate, professional counseling services from Therapists dedicated to helping you heal and grow. We are a grass roots practice with courteous staff and affordable pricing.
(718) 790-4538 View (718) 790-4538
Photo of Howard Ackerman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Howard Ackerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
I have training and experience with people suffering from co-occurring mental illness and addictions and have used CBT and Motivational Interviewing in several venues.
I am a licensed Master of Social Work with a practice in Queens, NY. I worked as a pastoral counselor and Rabbi of congregations across the continent for over 10 years, serving the social-emotional needs of a diverse and inclusive constituency. My work with individuals and families led me to clinical social work, in which I've worked with men and women with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I have training and experience with people suffering from co-occurring mental illness and addictions and have used CBT and Motivational Interviewing in several venues.
I am a licensed Master of Social Work with a practice in Queens, NY. I worked as a pastoral counselor and Rabbi of congregations across the continent for over 10 years, serving the social-emotional needs of a diverse and inclusive constituency. My work with individuals and families led me to clinical social work, in which I've worked with men and women with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and life transitions.
(347) 897-0754 View (347) 897-0754
Photo of Steve R Antoine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve R Antoine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollis, NY 11423  (Online Only)
I practice combined clinical interventions with a toolbox that includes task-centered and solution-focused models, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapies.
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
I practice combined clinical interventions with a toolbox that includes task-centered and solution-focused models, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapies.
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
(516) 271-3143 View (516) 271-3143
Photo of Annette Rivera, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Annette Rivera
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11385  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques ranging from Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Talk Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Skills (DBT), Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you currently struggling with painful emotions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues or addiction. I congratulate you for making the decision to seek therapy. It would be my pleasure to help you navigate these issues in a safe and therapeutic environment. As a therapist I strive to create an atmosphere that is warm, caring and non-judgmental.Therapy is a proven vehicle that helps you process your thoughts, and feelings from everyday stressors and address patterns from the past. I look forward to helping you reach your goals and achieve the freedom you deserve.
I utilize techniques ranging from Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Talk Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Skills (DBT), Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you currently struggling with painful emotions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues or addiction. I congratulate you for making the decision to seek therapy. It would be my pleasure to help you navigate these issues in a safe and therapeutic environment. As a therapist I strive to create an atmosphere that is warm, caring and non-judgmental.Therapy is a proven vehicle that helps you process your thoughts, and feelings from everyday stressors and address patterns from the past. I look forward to helping you reach your goals and achieve the freedom you deserve.
(929) 493-5629 View (929) 493-5629
Photo of Eshika S Kalam, LMHC, MS, NCC, Counselor
Eshika S Kalam
Counselor, LMHC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
In my practice I utilize evidenced based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness Based Therapy.
Everyone deserves to live a fulfilled life consisting of freedom, happiness, inner piece and growth. As a psychotherapist, I work collaboratively with my clients to achieve these goals in order for them to live a happier life. My goal is to instill hope in my clients and guide them towards self-acceptance. My work with clients involves building the therapeutic relationship through empathy, unconditional positive regards, mindfulness and creativity. By providing clients with safe and non-judgmental environment we work towards exploring and resolving personal conflicts to help the client achieve growth and live a meaningful life.
In my practice I utilize evidenced based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness Based Therapy.
Everyone deserves to live a fulfilled life consisting of freedom, happiness, inner piece and growth. As a psychotherapist, I work collaboratively with my clients to achieve these goals in order for them to live a happier life. My goal is to instill hope in my clients and guide them towards self-acceptance. My work with clients involves building the therapeutic relationship through empathy, unconditional positive regards, mindfulness and creativity. By providing clients with safe and non-judgmental environment we work towards exploring and resolving personal conflicts to help the client achieve growth and live a meaningful life.
(917) 933-0584 View (917) 933-0584
Photo of Anna Kalliagas - Anna Kalliagas, LCSW-R, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Kalliagas, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fresh Meadows, NY 11365  (Online Only)
I provide psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and supportive therapy to individuals, couples and families.
I have over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. I utilize a supportive approach to create a comfortable environment in which you can achieve your goals. I have experience treating trauma, depression, low self-esteem, bereavement, stress, anxiety, psychosis, relationship issues, parenting issues, and behavioral issues. I offer evidence based psychotherapy, which has been proven to be effective by the best available research.
I provide psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and supportive therapy to individuals, couples and families.
I have over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. I utilize a supportive approach to create a comfortable environment in which you can achieve your goals. I have experience treating trauma, depression, low self-esteem, bereavement, stress, anxiety, psychosis, relationship issues, parenting issues, and behavioral issues. I offer evidence based psychotherapy, which has been proven to be effective by the best available research.
(917) 652-6859 View (917) 652-6859
Photo of Nadja Taffe, MS, LCMHC
Nadja Taffe
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11435  (Online Only)
CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing are used often.
I may look like your homegirl and will at times feel like your friend. Although I am not either, I am a down-to-earth and personable therapist who provides a judgement-free free safe space for all my clients. I also allow sessions to be open and free while implementing healthy boundaries so the healing process can be done harmoniously and efficiently.
CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing are used often.
I may look like your homegirl and will at times feel like your friend. Although I am not either, I am a down-to-earth and personable therapist who provides a judgement-free free safe space for all my clients. I also allow sessions to be open and free while implementing healthy boundaries so the healing process can be done harmoniously and efficiently.
View
Photo of Stella Cook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stella Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
Through a combination of theoretical approaches such as CBT, IFS, and Motivational Interviewing, body movement and heart connection, we’ll move you closer to the changes in your life you are seeking, always at a pace and with goals that you are comfortable with.
If you're struggling with an important decision in your life, seeking positive change in a negative behavior, or feeling stuck in a rut, I might be the therapist for you. I offer a supportive space to help you navigate this season of your life. We will focus on realistic goals, learning new skills, and building a strong foundation of self-compassion that can carry you successfully through life's inevitable challenges in the future.
Through a combination of theoretical approaches such as CBT, IFS, and Motivational Interviewing, body movement and heart connection, we’ll move you closer to the changes in your life you are seeking, always at a pace and with goals that you are comfortable with.
If you're struggling with an important decision in your life, seeking positive change in a negative behavior, or feeling stuck in a rut, I might be the therapist for you. I offer a supportive space to help you navigate this season of your life. We will focus on realistic goals, learning new skills, and building a strong foundation of self-compassion that can carry you successfully through life's inevitable challenges in the future.
(973) 490-4748 View (973) 490-4748
Photo of Victoria B Waring, LCSW-R, M-CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria B Waring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, M-CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11432  (Online Only)
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, motivational interviewing, some dialectical behavioral techniques and rational-emotive counseling.
You deserve to have a life free of anxiety, sadness, flashbacks from past crises and conflicts in relationships. Share your troubles with me so I can strengthen and empower you to help you manage your worries. I work w Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Grief, Bipolar DO, Stress, Anxiety , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Sleeping disorders , Anger management , Self esteem , Depression , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , ADHD , Codependency , Communication Problems , Divorce and Separation , Family Problems , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame. I am also certified in EMDR
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, motivational interviewing, some dialectical behavioral techniques and rational-emotive counseling.
You deserve to have a life free of anxiety, sadness, flashbacks from past crises and conflicts in relationships. Share your troubles with me so I can strengthen and empower you to help you manage your worries. I work w Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Grief, Bipolar DO, Stress, Anxiety , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Sleeping disorders , Anger management , Self esteem , Depression , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , ADHD , Codependency , Communication Problems , Divorce and Separation , Family Problems , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame. I am also certified in EMDR
(718) 551-6159 View (718) 551-6159
Photo of Samelle Tyson, MHC-LP
Samelle Tyson
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Ozone Park, NY 11420  (Online Only)
Samelle includes different ranges of modalities within her practice, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness techniques.
Samelle believes that no matter what race, class, or gender identity you are, you deserve to be heard and get the help you need. Her treatment goals are to increase self-awareness, insight, and well-being, help individuals be comfortable with themselves, and achieve a lasting change to help with their day-to-day routine and lifestyle. When it comes to therapy there is always a stigma that mental health is not as important or can be seen as a weakness due to society and social media. My goal as your counselor is to build a therapeutic relationship with one another and to help reach the goals you want to achieve.
Samelle includes different ranges of modalities within her practice, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness techniques.
Samelle believes that no matter what race, class, or gender identity you are, you deserve to be heard and get the help you need. Her treatment goals are to increase self-awareness, insight, and well-being, help individuals be comfortable with themselves, and achieve a lasting change to help with their day-to-day routine and lifestyle. When it comes to therapy there is always a stigma that mental health is not as important or can be seen as a weakness due to society and social media. My goal as your counselor is to build a therapeutic relationship with one another and to help reach the goals you want to achieve.
(929) 207-5670 View (929) 207-5670

See more therapy options for Briarwood

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.