Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Livingston, TN

Photo of Anne Loubier, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Loubier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Livingston, TN 38570
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 Patricia Lee Smith - PLS Resources, EdS, LPC/MHS, CPS II, Licensed Professional Counselor
PLS Resources
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC/MHS, CPS II
Verified Verified
Livingston, TN 38570
You’re sick and tired of feeling small, being walked all over, and not being heard. You’ve spent so much of your life focusing on what others needed from you that now you’re not sure what you need. You’re actually not even sure who you are outside of the roles you’ve used to define yourself for so long. What you are sure of, though, is that you’re ready to do things differently—to go in a direction that will make you feel content with your choices, bring more balance into your life, and help you have better relationships with your friends and family. Changing your life through therapy might not be easy, but it will be worth it.
You’re sick and tired of feeling small, being walked all over, and not being heard. You’ve spent so much of your life focusing on what others needed from you that now you’re not sure what you need. You’re actually not even sure who you are outside of the roles you’ve used to define yourself for so long. What you are sure of, though, is that you’re ready to do things differently—to go in a direction that will make you feel content with your choices, bring more balance into your life, and help you have better relationships with your friends and family. Changing your life through therapy might not be easy, but it will be worth it.
(931) 271-4379 View (931) 271-4379
Photo of Ronald J Lee, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ronald J Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livingston, TN 38570
As a Christian and a professional I endeavor to provide professional counseling within a Christian worldview. As a therapist I try to be a good listener as well as someone who helps to clarify and provide input. I have been trained in a variety of counseling approaches but find that having a caring attitude and listening ear is beneficial to my clients.
As a Christian and a professional I endeavor to provide professional counseling within a Christian worldview. As a therapist I try to be a good listener as well as someone who helps to clarify and provide input. I have been trained in a variety of counseling approaches but find that having a caring attitude and listening ear is beneficial to my clients.
(931) 536-1292 View (931) 536-1292
Photo of Cody Dewayne York, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cody Dewayne York
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Livingston, TN 38570
“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 Jerri Cross, EdS, LPCMHSP, CPSII, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerri Cross
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPCMHSP, CPSII, NBCC
Verified Verified
Livingston, TN 38570
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 Nona Kelly - Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy Nashville, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy Nashville
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
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 Samantha Lacheta, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Lacheta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I believe in incorporating CBT, DBT, Reality Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, depending on each client's needs.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trouble at school or with friendships, career stress, marital issues, divorce, parenting, neurodiversity including Autism/Asperger’s, ADHD or neurocognitive deficits, or anything that is preventing you from living a joyful, fulfilled life, let’s talk! I primarily work with adolescents and adults, but am open to younger clients as well. Therapy is like auto maintenance. If we don't keep up with oil changes, something major is bound to break eventually. So whether it's a tune-up or major repair you're looking for, I'm here to help.
I believe in incorporating CBT, DBT, Reality Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, depending on each client's needs.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trouble at school or with friendships, career stress, marital issues, divorce, parenting, neurodiversity including Autism/Asperger’s, ADHD or neurocognitive deficits, or anything that is preventing you from living a joyful, fulfilled life, let’s talk! I primarily work with adolescents and adults, but am open to younger clients as well. Therapy is like auto maintenance. If we don't keep up with oil changes, something major is bound to break eventually. So whether it's a tune-up or major repair you're looking for, I'm here to help.
(615) 552-1489 View (615) 552-1489
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 Hannah Peterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
I have experience using CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, ACT, DBT, Brainspotting, EMDR, and Sandplay Therapy.
Whether a client is someone brand new to therapy, someone with previous negative experiences in therapy, or someone who is ready to begin therapy again, my goal as a counselor is to meet them where they are. I have experience working with clients from a wide range of ages, gender, background, and areas of concern.
I have experience using CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, ACT, DBT, Brainspotting, EMDR, and Sandplay Therapy.
Whether a client is someone brand new to therapy, someone with previous negative experiences in therapy, or someone who is ready to begin therapy again, my goal as a counselor is to meet them where they are. I have experience working with clients from a wide range of ages, gender, background, and areas of concern.
(629) 225-8883 View (629) 225-8883
Photo of Christina R Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina R Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203  (Online Only)
Life can be messy, and it does not come with a guidebook. Maybe it has been a struggle as long as you can remember, or perhaps there is a certain hurdle you hope to overcome. Having someone to work through problems and difficulties can be a great relief and aid along the journey. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy designed to meet your individual needs including Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, CBT, reminiscence, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
Life can be messy, and it does not come with a guidebook. Maybe it has been a struggle as long as you can remember, or perhaps there is a certain hurdle you hope to overcome. Having someone to work through problems and difficulties can be a great relief and aid along the journey. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy designed to meet your individual needs including Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, CBT, reminiscence, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
(904) 853-3942 View (904) 853-3942
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 Marquita Adams, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marquita Adams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203  (Online Only)
Although I use a variety of approaches from motivational interviewing, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, I will tailor your sessions to meet you where you are with your needs.
Hi, I’m Marquita Adams, MS, LPC-MHSP (temp). Are you looking for a place where you can feel safe and not judged? Do you want to tell your friends what’s going on but don’t feel comfortable? Do you think your parents are out of touch and they don’t understand you? Are you looking for someone that’s inclusive and represents who you are? Are you tired of being the “strong” friend?
Although I use a variety of approaches from motivational interviewing, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, I will tailor your sessions to meet you where you are with your needs.
Hi, I’m Marquita Adams, MS, LPC-MHSP (temp). Are you looking for a place where you can feel safe and not judged? Do you want to tell your friends what’s going on but don’t feel comfortable? Do you think your parents are out of touch and they don’t understand you? Are you looking for someone that’s inclusive and represents who you are? Are you tired of being the “strong” friend?
(615) 434-9142 View (615) 434-9142
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

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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.