Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Justin, TX

Photo of Cynthia Barnett - Barnett Healing Center, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barnett Healing Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Justin, TX 76247
My personal journey has been marked by both joys and sorrows, by growth and healing. Enduring the unexpected loss of a parent, battling negative self-perceptions, enduring abusive relationships, being hurt and betrayed by the church, the highs and lows of parenthood and marriage- these experiences have all contributed to who I am today. Through the beauty and pain of my life experiences, I have discovered the transformative power of inner resilience and spiritual connection. My experiences have led me to open Barnett Healing Center, where we provide a variety of services to assist in the healing journey of the mind, body & soul.
My personal journey has been marked by both joys and sorrows, by growth and healing. Enduring the unexpected loss of a parent, battling negative self-perceptions, enduring abusive relationships, being hurt and betrayed by the church, the highs and lows of parenthood and marriage- these experiences have all contributed to who I am today. Through the beauty and pain of my life experiences, I have discovered the transformative power of inner resilience and spiritual connection. My experiences have led me to open Barnett Healing Center, where we provide a variety of services to assist in the healing journey of the mind, body & soul.
(817) 523-1410 View (817) 523-1410
Photo of Wade Christian Peterson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wade Christian Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Justin, TX 76247  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of Complex Psychological Trauma including relational trauma from abusive relationships, PTSD, and all forms of addiction including sex and other process addictions (such as pornography, gambling, and food). I have a great deal of experience working with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I assist individuals in gaining understanding of symptoms and establishing skills to set and maintain appropriate boundaries both internally and externally, identify codependency, address denial, and improve conflict management tools.
I specialize in the treatment of Complex Psychological Trauma including relational trauma from abusive relationships, PTSD, and all forms of addiction including sex and other process addictions (such as pornography, gambling, and food). I have a great deal of experience working with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I assist individuals in gaining understanding of symptoms and establishing skills to set and maintain appropriate boundaries both internally and externally, identify codependency, address denial, and improve conflict management tools.
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Photo of Kami L. Diaz, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kami L. Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Justin, TX 76247  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space for you to share what you are going through. In life many experience the challenges of trauma, relationships, and life transitions. All can benefit from the support offered by a therapists and I hope you will allow me the opportunity to support you.
I offer a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space for you to share what you are going through. In life many experience the challenges of trauma, relationships, and life transitions. All can benefit from the support offered by a therapists and I hope you will allow me the opportunity to support you.
(254) 655-3285 View (254) 655-3285
Photo of Kitzia Lopez - North City Counseling, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
North City Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Justin, TX 76247
Hello and thank you for your interest in our services. In our work as a mental health professionals, we understand the unique challenges that people face in today's fast-paced and often overwhelming world. Seeking therapy is an important step towards finding relief from stress and building a healthier, more balanced life. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and understanding environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment.
Hello and thank you for your interest in our services. In our work as a mental health professionals, we understand the unique challenges that people face in today's fast-paced and often overwhelming world. Seeking therapy is an important step towards finding relief from stress and building a healthier, more balanced life. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and understanding environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment.
(817) 646-3610 View (817) 646-3610
Photo of Dr. Tj Jackson Shaw, LCDC, CSC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dr. Tj Jackson Shaw
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, CSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Justin, TX 76247
My purpose is to nurture hope in people by working in partnership with clients to help them obtain goals and live their best life. I specialize in working with teens and young adults from difficult backgrounds or who may sometimes be hard to love. I am skilled in working with children, teens, and adults who have substance use, addiction, or related behaviors. My clients usually want to experience emotional healing, create and maintain healthy boundaries, decrease substance use and related behaviors, improve their personal and professional relationships, and change their thinking in order to find solutions towards a better life.
My purpose is to nurture hope in people by working in partnership with clients to help them obtain goals and live their best life. I specialize in working with teens and young adults from difficult backgrounds or who may sometimes be hard to love. I am skilled in working with children, teens, and adults who have substance use, addiction, or related behaviors. My clients usually want to experience emotional healing, create and maintain healthy boundaries, decrease substance use and related behaviors, improve their personal and professional relationships, and change their thinking in order to find solutions towards a better life.
(817) 631-6456 View (817) 631-6456
Photo of Karen Kimbrough, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Kimbrough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Justin, TX 76247
So, you need to choose a therapist but how do you know which therapist can help you with your unique set of experiences, behaviors, thoughts and needs? I'm Probably The Right Therapist For You If: •You are serious about working through your stuff •You want someone who will “keep it real” and challenge you •You desire a companion who will go with you into your dark places •You like to laugh! •You can embrace being nurtured •You want to explore how spirituality fits into your life •You want to focus on what is working and learn how to change what isn’t •You want a non-judgmental therapist who will treat you with kindness and respect.
So, you need to choose a therapist but how do you know which therapist can help you with your unique set of experiences, behaviors, thoughts and needs? I'm Probably The Right Therapist For You If: •You are serious about working through your stuff •You want someone who will “keep it real” and challenge you •You desire a companion who will go with you into your dark places •You like to laugh! •You can embrace being nurtured •You want to explore how spirituality fits into your life •You want to focus on what is working and learn how to change what isn’t •You want a non-judgmental therapist who will treat you with kindness and respect.
(682) 243-4241 View (682) 243-4241
Photo of Gary Dietz, MA, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gary Dietz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Justin, TX 76247
Years ago, I use to think 'Counseling is for birds! I assumed, erroneously, only ‘truly disturbed' people needed a counselor. Boy was I wrong! When I went through a difficult time in my life, I realized I needed some guidance. I found a counselor who helped me discover answers I needed for my journey. Along my way, I came to realize, everyone, now and then, may find themselves in a tough spot and need some guidance. It's not an admission of weakness. It's the recognition that at times, we alone don't have all the answers. Counseling can help and I welcome the opportunity to join you on your healing journey to wholeness.
Years ago, I use to think 'Counseling is for birds! I assumed, erroneously, only ‘truly disturbed' people needed a counselor. Boy was I wrong! When I went through a difficult time in my life, I realized I needed some guidance. I found a counselor who helped me discover answers I needed for my journey. Along my way, I came to realize, everyone, now and then, may find themselves in a tough spot and need some guidance. It's not an admission of weakness. It's the recognition that at times, we alone don't have all the answers. Counseling can help and I welcome the opportunity to join you on your healing journey to wholeness.
(817) 464-8166 View (817) 464-8166
Photo of James Sturgeon - Psychic Change Counseling Services
Psychic Change Counseling Services
LPC-Associate
Verified Verified
Justin, TX 76247  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Throughout my life, I have had an abundance of experiences that contributed to my decision to become a professional counselor. They have instilled in me a passionate belief that everyone’s path, with all of their suffering and joy, have immense value and helping others discover hope is invaluable. As a teacher and athletic coach, I experienced the transformational power of a caring adult in the lives of adolescents and became a school counselor in order help more kids. My life has led to a journey of hope, and I am passionate about helping others transform their path of suffering to a similar journey of hope.
Throughout my life, I have had an abundance of experiences that contributed to my decision to become a professional counselor. They have instilled in me a passionate belief that everyone’s path, with all of their suffering and joy, have immense value and helping others discover hope is invaluable. As a teacher and athletic coach, I experienced the transformational power of a caring adult in the lives of adolescents and became a school counselor in order help more kids. My life has led to a journey of hope, and I am passionate about helping others transform their path of suffering to a similar journey of hope.
(682) 516-3217 View (682) 516-3217

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Elizabeth Wilson, LMFT TX, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT TX
Verified Verified
Argyle, TX 76226
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, Solution Focus Brief Therapy, Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, I am also a California State Certified Domestic Violence Counselor.
I am Hispanic and Bilingual Spanish/English Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. As a therapist my desire and passion is to help Individuals and families heal, reconnect, and restore their relationships to change this generation one family at a time. I strongly believe that when the family is able to provide comfort, care, and is emotionally available in times of need to his own members, each person is closer to live healthy and successful relationships in life.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, Solution Focus Brief Therapy, Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, I am also a California State Certified Domestic Violence Counselor.
I am Hispanic and Bilingual Spanish/English Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. As a therapist my desire and passion is to help Individuals and families heal, reconnect, and restore their relationships to change this generation one family at a time. I strongly believe that when the family is able to provide comfort, care, and is emotionally available in times of need to his own members, each person is closer to live healthy and successful relationships in life.
(619) 313-6806 View (619) 313-6806
Photo of Amissa Sharrock, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amissa Sharrock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76208  (Online Only)
My therapeutic interventions include CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Reality Based, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Compassion, Problem Solving Tools, Psychoeducational approaches, as well as providing empathy w/out judgement in a safe/trusting environment.
Over 25 years clinical experience in helping adults struggling with workplace issues, everyday stressors, depression, anxiety/obsessive worry/panic attacks, relationship issues, divorce, unhealthy boundaries, toxic boss, job burnout, lack of work/life balance, conflict/criticism/difficult people, dysfunctional family, shame/guilt, healing past pain/hurts & losses, Trauma/PTSD, decreased self-esteem/confidence & chronic pain. I also have in-depth experience/insight into the specialized field of working with all types of First Responders & their family members related to the job, crisis situations, secondary trauma & family issues.
My therapeutic interventions include CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Reality Based, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Compassion, Problem Solving Tools, Psychoeducational approaches, as well as providing empathy w/out judgement in a safe/trusting environment.
Over 25 years clinical experience in helping adults struggling with workplace issues, everyday stressors, depression, anxiety/obsessive worry/panic attacks, relationship issues, divorce, unhealthy boundaries, toxic boss, job burnout, lack of work/life balance, conflict/criticism/difficult people, dysfunctional family, shame/guilt, healing past pain/hurts & losses, Trauma/PTSD, decreased self-esteem/confidence & chronic pain. I also have in-depth experience/insight into the specialized field of working with all types of First Responders & their family members related to the job, crisis situations, secondary trauma & family issues.
(214) 817-2327 View (214) 817-2327
Photo of Scott Allen Smith, MA, LPC, CH, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Allen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CH, CLC
Verified Verified
Trophy Club, TX 76262
His work is based on the eclectic principles of cognitive behavioral treatment, EMDR (Certified), Hypnosis, Brainspotting, mindfulness, non-duality, EFT (Tapping), client-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion focused therapy (CFT), ego state therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS TO REDUCE YOUR COST. VIDEO CONFERENCING OPTION. FREE PHONE CONSULTATION - Therapy will provide another "pair of eyes" that can help you explore life to get back on track. I have significant experience in helping children and adult clients with the following: Feeling “stuck”, anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, childhood/family issues, couple's issues, adolescent adjustment, grief/bereavement, low self-esteem/confidence, trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, P.T.S.D. and/or abuse – sexual, physical, emotional), anger management, assertiveness, weight loss, and legal issues.
His work is based on the eclectic principles of cognitive behavioral treatment, EMDR (Certified), Hypnosis, Brainspotting, mindfulness, non-duality, EFT (Tapping), client-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion focused therapy (CFT), ego state therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS TO REDUCE YOUR COST. VIDEO CONFERENCING OPTION. FREE PHONE CONSULTATION - Therapy will provide another "pair of eyes" that can help you explore life to get back on track. I have significant experience in helping children and adult clients with the following: Feeling “stuck”, anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, childhood/family issues, couple's issues, adolescent adjustment, grief/bereavement, low self-esteem/confidence, trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, P.T.S.D. and/or abuse – sexual, physical, emotional), anger management, assertiveness, weight loss, and legal issues.
(469) 770-7333 View (469) 770-7333
Photo of Gene Estrada, LMSW
Gene Estrada
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haslet, TX 76052  (Online Only)
My approach is client-centered and rooted in psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I strive to create a safe, relaxed, and welcoming environment where you can be your most authentic self without fear of judgment. Together, we work on making realistic and meaningful changes to enhance your lifestyle and overall satisfaction. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) under the supervision of Joseph Remsik, LCSW-S, working toward my clinical certification.
My approach is client-centered and rooted in psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I strive to create a safe, relaxed, and welcoming environment where you can be your most authentic self without fear of judgment. Together, we work on making realistic and meaningful changes to enhance your lifestyle and overall satisfaction. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) under the supervision of Joseph Remsik, LCSW-S, working toward my clinical certification.
(682) 628-0455 View (682) 628-0455
Photo of Karmen Latterell, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karmen Latterell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248
I am trained in EMDR and utilize EMDR along with CBT and motivational interviewing to meet you where you are at.
Getting help is hard and I am proud of you for taking the first step! I enjoy working with individuals who struggle with self-esteem and identity. Maybe your lack of self-worth has caused you to fall into addiction, self-harm or other self-sabotaging behaviors. You may feel a fight between your brain and your gut, because you know it’s wrong, but it just feels like you can’t do anything different.
I am trained in EMDR and utilize EMDR along with CBT and motivational interviewing to meet you where you are at.
Getting help is hard and I am proud of you for taking the first step! I enjoy working with individuals who struggle with self-esteem and identity. Maybe your lack of self-worth has caused you to fall into addiction, self-harm or other self-sabotaging behaviors. You may feel a fight between your brain and your gut, because you know it’s wrong, but it just feels like you can’t do anything different.
(817) 854-4573 View (817) 854-4573
Photo of Inger Russ, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inger Russ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haslet, TX 76052  (Online Only)
I am skilled in a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness interventions.
Hello, my name is Inger Russ. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings including private practice, nursing homes, inpatient and outpatient mental health programs. Most clients seeking therapy value a therapist who listens, understands, encourages and who is knowledgeable in coping skills related to life stressors. I value working together as a team, co-creating goals and starting where the client is on his/her wellness journey.
I am skilled in a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness interventions.
Hello, my name is Inger Russ. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings including private practice, nursing homes, inpatient and outpatient mental health programs. Most clients seeking therapy value a therapist who listens, understands, encourages and who is knowledgeable in coping skills related to life stressors. I value working together as a team, co-creating goals and starting where the client is on his/her wellness journey.
(817) 587-8681 View (817) 587-8681
Photo of Malory Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malory Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haslet, TX 76052
My approach is grounded in principles of trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of clinical experience in acute and outpatient psychiatric settings, oncology, and palliative care. I have worked with individuals facing a variety of stressors, including grief/loss, life transitions, trauma, mental health concerns, terminal illness, and medical crises. My priority as a therapist is establishing a safe space in which individuals feel heard and can be their authentic selves. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I enter each relationship with an open, non-judgmental perspective and the goal to build on the unique strengths each client brings.
My approach is grounded in principles of trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of clinical experience in acute and outpatient psychiatric settings, oncology, and palliative care. I have worked with individuals facing a variety of stressors, including grief/loss, life transitions, trauma, mental health concerns, terminal illness, and medical crises. My priority as a therapist is establishing a safe space in which individuals feel heard and can be their authentic selves. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I enter each relationship with an open, non-judgmental perspective and the goal to build on the unique strengths each client brings.
(832) 479-2888 View (832) 479-2888
Photo of Linda Kay Campbell, MS, LPC, LCDC, RN, NCC, CPTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Kay Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, RN, NCC, CPTT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, TX 76262  (Online Only)
I have been married for 17 years and have 3 adult step children, a son-in-law and 3 grandchildren. I also have 2 cats that are important members of the family. Family is something I view to be a living entity, challenging at times, and I have come value over the years. My life experiences have given me insight and perspectives that allow me to make unique connections with my clients. I learned that life is ever changing. I have come to realize is that during times when we feel defeated, it does not mean we are unable to change the outcome or our quality of life in the future. Nor, is it too late to create the life we do want.
I have been married for 17 years and have 3 adult step children, a son-in-law and 3 grandchildren. I also have 2 cats that are important members of the family. Family is something I view to be a living entity, challenging at times, and I have come value over the years. My life experiences have given me insight and perspectives that allow me to make unique connections with my clients. I learned that life is ever changing. I have come to realize is that during times when we feel defeated, it does not mean we are unable to change the outcome or our quality of life in the future. Nor, is it too late to create the life we do want.
(682) 255-1057 View (682) 255-1057
Photo of Lisa King, MS,  NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Argyle, TX 76226  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe in treating the individual, not a diagnosis or a problem. I do not believe that people are broken. Sometimes we get buried, sometimes life comes at us so hard, we can barely breathe and sometimes we lose sight of who we are and/or what we want in life. Many of us can easily cite what we do as human doings, but we struggle to identify who we are as human beings. As a therapist, I am passionate about collaborating with my clients and helping them to recover purpose, passion and meaning in their lives.
As a therapist, I believe in treating the individual, not a diagnosis or a problem. I do not believe that people are broken. Sometimes we get buried, sometimes life comes at us so hard, we can barely breathe and sometimes we lose sight of who we are and/or what we want in life. Many of us can easily cite what we do as human doings, but we struggle to identify who we are as human beings. As a therapist, I am passionate about collaborating with my clients and helping them to recover purpose, passion and meaning in their lives.
(940) 489-1669 View (940) 489-1669
Photo of Brad Cullum, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brad Cullum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Argyle, TX 76226
Life can be filled with disappointment, stress, pain, and loss that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, alone, and vulnerable. During these times of struggle it can be difficult to find hope that things can change, improve, or ever be okay again. I am dedicated to helping those who find themselves in positions that often seem impossible to overcome. I believe an abundant, peaceful, and joy filled life is available for those who seek to change unhealthy patterns in their lives, improve their relationships, and strive to be the best versions of themselves.
Life can be filled with disappointment, stress, pain, and loss that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, alone, and vulnerable. During these times of struggle it can be difficult to find hope that things can change, improve, or ever be okay again. I am dedicated to helping those who find themselves in positions that often seem impossible to overcome. I believe an abundant, peaceful, and joy filled life is available for those who seek to change unhealthy patterns in their lives, improve their relationships, and strive to be the best versions of themselves.
(940) 241-4140 View (940) 241-4140
Photo of Dailyn Acosta, PhD, Psychologist
Dailyn Acosta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Trophy Club, TX 76262
I am a licensed psychologist who offers individual therapy and immigration evaluation services to adults. I have specialized training and experience in clinical and health psychology and have worked in various settings, including behavioral health clinics, inpatient and outpatient medical services, community mental health outreach, home-based services, juvenile detention, and adult probation centers. I integrate principles from multiple evidence-based theories and interventions to address individual needs.
I am a licensed psychologist who offers individual therapy and immigration evaluation services to adults. I have specialized training and experience in clinical and health psychology and have worked in various settings, including behavioral health clinics, inpatient and outpatient medical services, community mental health outreach, home-based services, juvenile detention, and adult probation centers. I integrate principles from multiple evidence-based theories and interventions to address individual needs.
(469) 765-3178 View (469) 765-3178
Photo of Meghan Burgess, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Burgess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Westlake, TX 76262
Do you ever feel like you're living for other people? Are your relationships wearing you down? Do you find yourself in sabotage cycles that keep you stuck, in shame, and feeling as if you can't access a life that feels authentic to you? Do you feel like something is off in your life, but can't figure out what? If so, I am eager to meet you! I pride myself in working with people who, through experiencing deep pain and dissatisfaction in their life, feel ready to dig deep, gain clear insight on what's blocking them from their true desires in life, and start re-creating a life of authenticity, freedom, self-compassion, and confidence.
Do you ever feel like you're living for other people? Are your relationships wearing you down? Do you find yourself in sabotage cycles that keep you stuck, in shame, and feeling as if you can't access a life that feels authentic to you? Do you feel like something is off in your life, but can't figure out what? If so, I am eager to meet you! I pride myself in working with people who, through experiencing deep pain and dissatisfaction in their life, feel ready to dig deep, gain clear insight on what's blocking them from their true desires in life, and start re-creating a life of authenticity, freedom, self-compassion, and confidence.
(512) 229-9267 View (512) 229-9267

See more therapy options for Justin

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.