Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Crossville, TN

Photo of Jessica Lynn Bolin Edwards, LPC-MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Lynn Bolin Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Crossville, TN 38555
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, adoption, trauma, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, mobile crisis, outpatient, and in-home. I feel like that is important to explain as, it means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, adoption, trauma, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, mobile crisis, outpatient, and in-home. I feel like that is important to explain as, it means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse.
(931) 202-9089 View (931) 202-9089
Photo of Ajay James Rashe, LPC, MHSP, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ajay James Rashe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
Crossville, TN 38571  (Online Only)
“It’s only a passing thing this shadow. Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer.” -J.R.R Tolkien. There are times in life where the road forward is unclear, and all you can do is take the first step. I want to create an open, affirming, and safe place for you to explore your path. There are going to be periods of struggle, loss, grief, joy, growth and celebration. Mental health work is not a destination but a journey created for and by you. I strongly believe in giving you the autonomy, dignity, and respect to make your own decision with a little guidance.
“It’s only a passing thing this shadow. Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer.” -J.R.R Tolkien. There are times in life where the road forward is unclear, and all you can do is take the first step. I want to create an open, affirming, and safe place for you to explore your path. There are going to be periods of struggle, loss, grief, joy, growth and celebration. Mental health work is not a destination but a journey created for and by you. I strongly believe in giving you the autonomy, dignity, and respect to make your own decision with a little guidance.
(931) 326-4341 View (931) 326-4341
Photo of Belinda Leventhal, LCSW, PhD, LPC, MAC, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Leventhal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, LPC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Crossville, TN 38555  (Online Only)
Dr. Leventhal's goal is to assist others to achieve their goals for therapy. Anxiety, depression, grief and loss, whatever your personal circumstance- life is often complicated and sometimes difficult. She enjoys working with clients who are seeking to improve their current circumstances, whatever they may be, and to see their own true potential. She is openminded, compassionate, empathic, and very personable.
Dr. Leventhal's goal is to assist others to achieve their goals for therapy. Anxiety, depression, grief and loss, whatever your personal circumstance- life is often complicated and sometimes difficult. She enjoys working with clients who are seeking to improve their current circumstances, whatever they may be, and to see their own true potential. She is openminded, compassionate, empathic, and very personable.
(865) 205-7368 View (865) 205-7368
Photo of Corrin Brown, EdS, LPC, MHSP, Temp, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corrin Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, LPC, MHSP, Temp, NCC
Verified Verified
Crossville, TN 38555  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve worked with clients across the lifespan in various clinical settings and have maintained interests in continuing to serve clients who are struggling with life transitions, complex trauma, relational or familial conflict, chronic stress, depression, anxiety, anger management, addiction, grief/loss, caregiver fatigue, neurodivergence (i.e., Autism, ADHD), and perinatal mental health or postpartum recovery.
I’ve worked with clients across the lifespan in various clinical settings and have maintained interests in continuing to serve clients who are struggling with life transitions, complex trauma, relational or familial conflict, chronic stress, depression, anxiety, anger management, addiction, grief/loss, caregiver fatigue, neurodivergence (i.e., Autism, ADHD), and perinatal mental health or postpartum recovery.
View
Photo of Cody Dewayne York, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cody Dewayne York
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Crossville, TN 38555
“Did you know that there are some seeds that cannot sprout unless they are first burned? Sometimes breaking is making. Even Iron can start again, and there are many things that can move through fire and find themselves much better for it afterward.” Kerrek, Critical Role. Sometimes we are confronted with difficult thoughts and experiences that can feel uncomfortable or impossible. I offer a relaxed environment to help you along that journey; be that depression or anxiety, life changes, grief or loss, mood disorders, etc. I strive to make sure I understand your place within in your story and want to help you get to your next chapter.
“Did you know that there are some seeds that cannot sprout unless they are first burned? Sometimes breaking is making. Even Iron can start again, and there are many things that can move through fire and find themselves much better for it afterward.” Kerrek, Critical Role. Sometimes we are confronted with difficult thoughts and experiences that can feel uncomfortable or impossible. I offer a relaxed environment to help you along that journey; be that depression or anxiety, life changes, grief or loss, mood disorders, etc. I strive to make sure I understand your place within in your story and want to help you get to your next chapter.
(931) 271-5789 View (931) 271-5789
Photo of Mason Doss, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mason Doss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Crossville, TN 38555  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help can be either the most normal thing you have ever done or it may feel uncomfortable, or even scary. I am hear to walk with you as you embark on a journey in what might be the most challenging time in your life. One of my goals is to offer hope and encouragement as we work together to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic relationship that promotes growth and healing.
Reaching out for help can be either the most normal thing you have ever done or it may feel uncomfortable, or even scary. I am hear to walk with you as you embark on a journey in what might be the most challenging time in your life. One of my goals is to offer hope and encouragement as we work together to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic relationship that promotes growth and healing.
(931) 322-4625 View (931) 322-4625
Photo of Jerri Cross, EdS, LPCMHSP, CPSII, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerri Cross
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPCMHSP, CPSII, NBCC
Verified Verified
Crossville, TN 38555
Not accepting new clients
"Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow." Helen Keller ~~~ I believe all individuals desire joy, hope and happiness and often get so caught up in the difficulties in life, they lose hope in finding these things in their lives again. If in some small way, I can restore hope which leads an another individual to joy and happiness in their lives, then His purpose has been fulfilled. Every person has a plan and purpose in their lives and my desire is to help them reconnect with their plan and purpose.
"Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow." Helen Keller ~~~ I believe all individuals desire joy, hope and happiness and often get so caught up in the difficulties in life, they lose hope in finding these things in their lives again. If in some small way, I can restore hope which leads an another individual to joy and happiness in their lives, then His purpose has been fulfilled. Every person has a plan and purpose in their lives and my desire is to help them reconnect with their plan and purpose.
(931) 548-7625 View (931) 548-7625

Online Therapists

Photo of Lacey Raley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lacey Raley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
My modalities integrate somatic, trauma-informed, evidence-based practices of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I am deeply passionate about helping you work toward autonomy over your life, relationships, health, and goals. This looks different for everyone (as it should), but, for many, a starting point is forming a connection with your body; embodiment is absolutely possible for every body size and experience. We cannot exist without our bodies! I understand how co-occurring issues with food, body image, media, shame, and perfectionism can create feelings of disconnection, dissociation, and lack of control. I also work heavily within the music industry to help creatives build identity while setting goals and boundaries along the way!
My modalities integrate somatic, trauma-informed, evidence-based practices of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I am deeply passionate about helping you work toward autonomy over your life, relationships, health, and goals. This looks different for everyone (as it should), but, for many, a starting point is forming a connection with your body; embodiment is absolutely possible for every body size and experience. We cannot exist without our bodies! I understand how co-occurring issues with food, body image, media, shame, and perfectionism can create feelings of disconnection, dissociation, and lack of control. I also work heavily within the music industry to help creatives build identity while setting goals and boundaries along the way!
(629) 205-0547 View (629) 205-0547
Photo of Ashley Lynn Bateman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Lynn Bateman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Corryton, TN 37721  (Online Only)
I have training in Gottman Methods (couple counseling), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness approaches, many trauma focused treatments, EMDR, and play therapy but the most important is the relationship between the counselor and the client.
Finding a best fit counselor to walk alongside you while you set and achieve your goals is the most important part. My approach is genuine, compassionate, and client centered. We will work together to learn more about you, set your goals, and reach your potential. I believe everyone needs an unbiased, nonjudgmental partner to confide in or to overcome hurdles and assist to move towards a goal. Through my practice, I currently provide telehealth (video) counseling only so clients best served will be ages 10 thru adulthood; however, I am able to provide parenting support and coaching to parents of younger children.
I have training in Gottman Methods (couple counseling), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness approaches, many trauma focused treatments, EMDR, and play therapy but the most important is the relationship between the counselor and the client.
Finding a best fit counselor to walk alongside you while you set and achieve your goals is the most important part. My approach is genuine, compassionate, and client centered. We will work together to learn more about you, set your goals, and reach your potential. I believe everyone needs an unbiased, nonjudgmental partner to confide in or to overcome hurdles and assist to move towards a goal. Through my practice, I currently provide telehealth (video) counseling only so clients best served will be ages 10 thru adulthood; however, I am able to provide parenting support and coaching to parents of younger children.
(865) 217-0652 View (865) 217-0652
Photo of James David Hammons, MA, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
James David Hammons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Hermitage, TN 37076
Some of the most common modalities that I pull from are Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, and DBT.
One of the most important factors of success in therapy is your relationship with the counselor. It is a big reason why finding a counselor who is a "good fit" is an important decision. That important decision can seem paralyzing, but know that I am here to walk alongside you in any way that I can as you build the life that you want.
Some of the most common modalities that I pull from are Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, and DBT.
One of the most important factors of success in therapy is your relationship with the counselor. It is a big reason why finding a counselor who is a "good fit" is an important decision. That important decision can seem paralyzing, but know that I am here to walk alongside you in any way that I can as you build the life that you want.
(615) 471-7235 View (615) 471-7235
Photo of Shandra Mbanga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shandra Mbanga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013  (Online Only)
Shandra uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Educational Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Everyone’s journey is unique that is why she prioritizes an individual approach. Shandra is committed to empowering her clients with the tools, training, and knowledge they need to perform optimally in their daily experiences. Through the use of evidence-based strategies, she is able to help her clients with a variety of coping techniques.
Shandra uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Educational Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Everyone’s journey is unique that is why she prioritizes an individual approach. Shandra is committed to empowering her clients with the tools, training, and knowledge they need to perform optimally in their daily experiences. Through the use of evidence-based strategies, she is able to help her clients with a variety of coping techniques.
(615) 558-5294 View (615) 558-5294
Photo of Anne Loubier, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Loubier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Sparta, TN 38583
I graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2014 with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology, and since then I have had experience working with all ages, including working in intense situations with the police department and hospitals in Chicago, IL. I practice an integrative approach focusing on the whole person, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I approach counseling using mindfulness techniques, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing. I have had experience working with a wide variety of issues including Depression, Anxiety, crisis intervention, self-esteem, grief and loss, and PTSD.
I graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2014 with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology, and since then I have had experience working with all ages, including working in intense situations with the police department and hospitals in Chicago, IL. I practice an integrative approach focusing on the whole person, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I approach counseling using mindfulness techniques, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing. I have had experience working with a wide variety of issues including Depression, Anxiety, crisis intervention, self-esteem, grief and loss, and PTSD.
(931) 263-0681 View (931) 263-0681
Photo of Lu Fang, LPC (t), Pre-Licensed Professional
Lu Fang
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC (t)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
If you are navigating significant life transitions, whether due to relationship challenges, personal growth or career changes, you may feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to cope. I’m committed to supporting adults and adolescents who might be facing challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, LGBTQ+ identities, relationship issues, or struggles at school. My goal is to create a safe space for you and work with you to navigate the ups and downs of life. My specialty lies in evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
If you are navigating significant life transitions, whether due to relationship challenges, personal growth or career changes, you may feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to cope. I’m committed to supporting adults and adolescents who might be facing challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, LGBTQ+ identities, relationship issues, or struggles at school. My goal is to create a safe space for you and work with you to navigate the ups and downs of life. My specialty lies in evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(629) 283-1460 View (629) 283-1460
Photo of Anna Carr, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37217
My goal as a therapist is to meet each individual exactly where they are. One great truth of life is that it is difficult, so I want to support you, as the client, in processing, managing, and healing from the many challenges that life throws your way. I use a therapeutic approach that is client-centered, empathetic, holistic, and trauma informed. This typically entails utilizing a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I also specialize in Substance Abuse Disorders and working with those who are struggling with addiction.
My goal as a therapist is to meet each individual exactly where they are. One great truth of life is that it is difficult, so I want to support you, as the client, in processing, managing, and healing from the many challenges that life throws your way. I use a therapeutic approach that is client-centered, empathetic, holistic, and trauma informed. This typically entails utilizing a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I also specialize in Substance Abuse Disorders and working with those who are struggling with addiction.
(615) 499-6899 View (615) 499-6899
Photo of Virginia Spini, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Spini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013  (Online Only)
I work with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Behavior Activation, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello, I'm Virginia! I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Nashville, TN. I've been working with those facing very stressful life changes for some time and are finding anxiety in their daily life increasing. I specialized in working with geriatric populations first responders and the military. I've worked in Tele-mental Health service for 3 years and have been clinically licensed since 2010. I served 13 years in the military, so I am comfortable with those who have served and those who support those who are and have served. I focus on creating a safe place for you to achieve your best self.
I work with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Behavior Activation, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello, I'm Virginia! I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Nashville, TN. I've been working with those facing very stressful life changes for some time and are finding anxiety in their daily life increasing. I specialized in working with geriatric populations first responders and the military. I've worked in Tele-mental Health service for 3 years and have been clinically licensed since 2010. I served 13 years in the military, so I am comfortable with those who have served and those who support those who are and have served. I focus on creating a safe place for you to achieve your best self.
(629) 300-4944 View (629) 300-4944
Photo of Valeria Sanchez-Lucas, MSW
Valeria Sanchez-Lucas
MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, TN 37075
Valeria enjoys serving preteens, teens, and adults with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, anger management, trauma, depression, low self esteem, family generational problems, on-going physical health distress, and work or school stress that impact individual’s holistic well-being. The modalities used will be Art therapy, CBT, Behavior therapy, Humanistic therapy, Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Emotionally Focused Intervention, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Valeria enjoys serving preteens, teens, and adults with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, anger management, trauma, depression, low self esteem, family generational problems, on-going physical health distress, and work or school stress that impact individual’s holistic well-being. The modalities used will be Art therapy, CBT, Behavior therapy, Humanistic therapy, Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Emotionally Focused Intervention, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing.
(615) 703-4591 View (615) 703-4591
Photo of Peter Wadkin Coleman, MS, LMFT, CP-ATP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peter Wadkin Coleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CP-ATP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37411
I utilize Bowenian, internal family systems, emotionally focused, logic based, cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing and solution focused, and dialectical behavior.
"We do not see things as they are, we see them as we are." -Anais Nin per Talmudic origin. We must create things twice; once in our minds, and once articulated. When we think our thoughts, it lights up one part of the brain, and when we speak our thoughts, it lights up a different part of the brain. There is often something very different when we articulate our thoughts, and they change in some way. Talking out these experiences in a narrative way assists us in making sense of how we feel about those experiences.
I utilize Bowenian, internal family systems, emotionally focused, logic based, cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing and solution focused, and dialectical behavior.
"We do not see things as they are, we see them as we are." -Anais Nin per Talmudic origin. We must create things twice; once in our minds, and once articulated. When we think our thoughts, it lights up one part of the brain, and when we speak our thoughts, it lights up a different part of the brain. There is often something very different when we articulate our thoughts, and they change in some way. Talking out these experiences in a narrative way assists us in making sense of how we feel about those experiences.
(423) 436-7631 View (423) 436-7631
Photo of Raekenya Walker, LMSW , LSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raekenya Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , LSSW
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37411
I guide children, adolescent and adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, goal setting and empathy.
Have you ever been told you are "too much" but you constantly feel like you aren't enough? Or have you ever been depressed but felt guilty because outside looking in you "have it all together"? I've been there and I know how it feels. As a therapist, I offer empathy and help you develop healthy strategies to mute those negative thoughts. I give you the tools to ask for what you need in personal and professional relationships. I remind you that anxiety, depression, and past traumas do not make you broken or flawed. Your brain just works differently and I show you ways to manage that. I believe in you!
I guide children, adolescent and adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, goal setting and empathy.
Have you ever been told you are "too much" but you constantly feel like you aren't enough? Or have you ever been depressed but felt guilty because outside looking in you "have it all together"? I've been there and I know how it feels. As a therapist, I offer empathy and help you develop healthy strategies to mute those negative thoughts. I give you the tools to ask for what you need in personal and professional relationships. I remind you that anxiety, depression, and past traumas do not make you broken or flawed. Your brain just works differently and I show you ways to manage that. I believe in you!
(615) 392-6593 View (615) 392-6593
Photo of Matthew Crescenzi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Crescenzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
My expertise includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience helping clients achieve goals, reduce symptoms, and improve their overall mental health. My behavioral health and medical experience includes providing group and individual psychotherapy to clients suffering from addiction and behavioral issues; assisting clients with the ability to cope with anxiety and/or stress related to chronic illnesses; and addressing impactful life events in a safe manner, at your pace, to heal and resolve past trauma.
My expertise includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience helping clients achieve goals, reduce symptoms, and improve their overall mental health. My behavioral health and medical experience includes providing group and individual psychotherapy to clients suffering from addiction and behavioral issues; assisting clients with the ability to cope with anxiety and/or stress related to chronic illnesses; and addressing impactful life events in a safe manner, at your pace, to heal and resolve past trauma.
(865) 800-8626 View (865) 800-8626
Photo of Robert Wesley Phillips, LADAC, NCAC, SAP, CPS, CIP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Robert Wesley Phillips
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, NCAC, SAP, CPS, CIP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Unionville, TN 37180
Robert has extensive training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Co-Active Life Coaching, Egan's Skilled Helper Model and the Johnson Model of Intervention and is certified in Family Systemic Intervention© and ARISE(tm).
Robert is an Intervention Specialist trained in guiding families through the systemic process whereby a person addicted to alcohol or drugs is encouraged to accept help and enter treatment. Robert has worked in treatment centers and detoxification facilities as a counselor, program developer, educator, director of admission and clinical supervisor. Robert's practice specializes in substance abuse interventions, counseling, DOT/SAP services and community prevention. Robert is certified and licensed as an Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse counselor; Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) ; Prevention Specialist; and Crisis Interventionist.
Robert has extensive training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Co-Active Life Coaching, Egan's Skilled Helper Model and the Johnson Model of Intervention and is certified in Family Systemic Intervention© and ARISE(tm).
Robert is an Intervention Specialist trained in guiding families through the systemic process whereby a person addicted to alcohol or drugs is encouraged to accept help and enter treatment. Robert has worked in treatment centers and detoxification facilities as a counselor, program developer, educator, director of admission and clinical supervisor. Robert's practice specializes in substance abuse interventions, counseling, DOT/SAP services and community prevention. Robert is certified and licensed as an Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse counselor; Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) ; Prevention Specialist; and Crisis Interventionist.
(615) 283-7320 View (615) 283-7320

See more therapy options for Crossville

Nearby Motivational Interviewing Therapists Searches for Crossville

See More Motivational Interviewing Therapists
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.