Motivational Interviewing Therapists in League City, TX

Photo of Carissa Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carissa Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy when working with my clients.
I am a dedicated professional counselor that believes everyone can find hope for their future and make achievable goals. My empathy and relatability help me to connect with individuals that have the desire to make positive changes in their life. I feel it is important to take a team approach with my clients in order to find solutions so that they can cope better. If you would like to see positive changes in your life and are ready to learn how to make those changes, I am the counselor for you.
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy when working with my clients.
I am a dedicated professional counselor that believes everyone can find hope for their future and make achievable goals. My empathy and relatability help me to connect with individuals that have the desire to make positive changes in their life. I feel it is important to take a team approach with my clients in order to find solutions so that they can cope better. If you would like to see positive changes in your life and are ready to learn how to make those changes, I am the counselor for you.
(346) 258-5219 View (346) 258-5219
Photo of Margaret Abrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Abrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with over twenty years of experience working in social services and two and a half years of counseling experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, adoption, and challenges with self-harming. In sessions I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. In session I take a client centered approach, I am here to support the client and to help along their journey.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with over twenty years of experience working in social services and two and a half years of counseling experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, adoption, and challenges with self-harming. In sessions I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. In session I take a client centered approach, I am here to support the client and to help along their journey.
(469) 933-0885 View (469) 933-0885
Photo of Tammy S Doyle, LPC,  LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy S Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
My clinical approach is client-centered and eclectic, and includes Motivational Interviewing, solution-focused, CBT, mindfulness, and strengths-based approaches. The most important factor in therapeutic outcomes is the relationship with your therapist. It is important to create a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship that provides an atmosphere for personal exploration, growth, and recovery. I am passionate about getting to fully understand your internal experience and assist you in recognizing your innate ability to create an empowered and authentic life.
My clinical approach is client-centered and eclectic, and includes Motivational Interviewing, solution-focused, CBT, mindfulness, and strengths-based approaches. The most important factor in therapeutic outcomes is the relationship with your therapist. It is important to create a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship that provides an atmosphere for personal exploration, growth, and recovery. I am passionate about getting to fully understand your internal experience and assist you in recognizing your innate ability to create an empowered and authentic life.
(281) 317-6857 View (281) 317-6857
Photo of Faith L Larson - Holistic Hope / Faith L. Larson, LCSW-S, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holistic Hope / Faith L. Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) based on the Polyvagal theory.
Embark on a journey of healing with personalized support from a certified clinical trauma professional and integrative mental health specialist. Whether you're navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, or relationship challenges, I'm here to meet you where you are and guide you towards holistic well-being.
I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) based on the Polyvagal theory.
Embark on a journey of healing with personalized support from a certified clinical trauma professional and integrative mental health specialist. Whether you're navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, or relationship challenges, I'm here to meet you where you are and guide you towards holistic well-being.
(281) 532-8457 View (281) 532-8457
Photo of Chavontreal Allen - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry League City, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry League City
Counselor
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
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.
(346) 477-9300 View (346) 477-9300
Photo of Rachael Edelman, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Edelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
I have experience using Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapies, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy, as well as Art and Play Therapy.
My therapeutic style involves helping you to arrive at insight, strategies, and tools that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life. I want to be able to create a safe place for you where you do not feel judged. I want you to be able to share your concerns and thoughts openly and freely with me. I love to provide you with concrete tools wherever possible and help you to have a plan for the following days before our next session, if that is the pace you would like to move at Most importantly, we are going to make sure we are making progress on goals that you have for yourself. I will be there to guide you
I have experience using Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapies, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy, as well as Art and Play Therapy.
My therapeutic style involves helping you to arrive at insight, strategies, and tools that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life. I want to be able to create a safe place for you where you do not feel judged. I want you to be able to share your concerns and thoughts openly and freely with me. I love to provide you with concrete tools wherever possible and help you to have a plan for the following days before our next session, if that is the pace you would like to move at Most importantly, we are going to make sure we are making progress on goals that you have for yourself. I will be there to guide you
View
Photo of Sarah Whitlock, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Whitlock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
Sarah utilizes a variety of treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing.
Sarah Whitlock is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and seniors address specific needs and challenges related to achieving personal growth and living life on purpose. Sarah's areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, working with the impact of chronic illness, and major life transitions. She completed her Master's degree at the University of Houston-Clear Lake and earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University-College Station.
Sarah utilizes a variety of treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing.
Sarah Whitlock is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and seniors address specific needs and challenges related to achieving personal growth and living life on purpose. Sarah's areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, working with the impact of chronic illness, and major life transitions. She completed her Master's degree at the University of Houston-Clear Lake and earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University-College Station.
(281) 699-1136 View (281) 699-1136
Photo of Pamela Thuem, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Thuem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
I will often pull from cognitive behavioral, solution focused, client centered, motivational interviewing, Mindfulness, and DBT therapies as necessary.
Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and healing! I believe that the mind, body, and spirit must work together for us to become our best and most beautiful selves. Sometimes life’s journey can feel like one obstacle after another. We will challenge self-defeating beliefs, unhealthy addictions, and self-defeating patterns of behavior. Depression, anxiety, trauma, etc have a way of interfering with day-to-day living and blocking us from peace and happiness. But there is HOPE. Mindfully we will explore your truth and address things that are weighing you down, draining you, and keeping you stuck.
I will often pull from cognitive behavioral, solution focused, client centered, motivational interviewing, Mindfulness, and DBT therapies as necessary.
Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and healing! I believe that the mind, body, and spirit must work together for us to become our best and most beautiful selves. Sometimes life’s journey can feel like one obstacle after another. We will challenge self-defeating beliefs, unhealthy addictions, and self-defeating patterns of behavior. Depression, anxiety, trauma, etc have a way of interfering with day-to-day living and blocking us from peace and happiness. But there is HOPE. Mindfully we will explore your truth and address things that are weighing you down, draining you, and keeping you stuck.
(346) 229-0255 View (346) 229-0255
Photo of Channing Carpenter, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Channing Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77574  (Online Only)
I utilize the modalities, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Have you been looking for a therapist that helps you become your own therapist? If your automatic thought was yes…then you have come to the right place. I offer individual telehealth therapy to adults seeking assistance in their healing process. Beginning therapy can be a very challenging step as it can be incredibly vulnerable to open your world up to a complete stranger. Therefore, I am committed to creating a safe, genuine, and culturally sensitive space for those struggling with life’s hardships. I will collaboratively work with you to identify, explore, and process challenges and to learn healthy ways to manage stressors.
I utilize the modalities, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Have you been looking for a therapist that helps you become your own therapist? If your automatic thought was yes…then you have come to the right place. I offer individual telehealth therapy to adults seeking assistance in their healing process. Beginning therapy can be a very challenging step as it can be incredibly vulnerable to open your world up to a complete stranger. Therefore, I am committed to creating a safe, genuine, and culturally sensitive space for those struggling with life’s hardships. I will collaboratively work with you to identify, explore, and process challenges and to learn healthy ways to manage stressors.
(346) 788-6851 View (346) 788-6851
Photo of Aysha Hussaini, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aysha Hussaini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Whatever your reasons for finding a therapist, I am glad that you have taken this step. As a client-centered therapist, I believe that you are a unique individual, and will make it my goal to help you live your best life. It is not my job to tell you what to do but to provide a safe, comfortable space in which we will work together to navigate your journey. We will use evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strengths-based techniques to work on your goals.
Whatever your reasons for finding a therapist, I am glad that you have taken this step. As a client-centered therapist, I believe that you are a unique individual, and will make it my goal to help you live your best life. It is not my job to tell you what to do but to provide a safe, comfortable space in which we will work together to navigate your journey. We will use evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strengths-based techniques to work on your goals.
(281) 559-7264 View (281) 559-7264
Photo of Michelle Sitkowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Sitkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and recently CBT-I for sleep.
Therapy is often a difficult and personal journey that one enters for a variety of reasons. It provides an emotionally safe place for people to address and process life experiences while also offering valuable insight and perspective throughout their recovery.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and recently CBT-I for sleep.
Therapy is often a difficult and personal journey that one enters for a variety of reasons. It provides an emotionally safe place for people to address and process life experiences while also offering valuable insight and perspective throughout their recovery.
(409) 207-9264 View (409) 207-9264
Photo of Faith Larson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faith Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Faith is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Relational Trauma Therapy, and Critical Stress Management (CISM).
Faith has a master's degree in Social Work (MSW) and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Texas. For the past 14 years, Faith has worked with individuals, children, adolescents, and families experiencing complex trauma across many types of social services and organizations. Faith has worked in the private practice setting providing psychotherapy to clients since 2019. Faith is a Level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II) and a Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner (CIMHP). Faith is client centered and passionate about integrating holistic interventions into mental health treatment.
Faith is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Relational Trauma Therapy, and Critical Stress Management (CISM).
Faith has a master's degree in Social Work (MSW) and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Texas. For the past 14 years, Faith has worked with individuals, children, adolescents, and families experiencing complex trauma across many types of social services and organizations. Faith has worked in the private practice setting providing psychotherapy to clients since 2019. Faith is a Level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II) and a Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner (CIMHP). Faith is client centered and passionate about integrating holistic interventions into mental health treatment.
(979) 705-7383 View (979) 705-7383
Photo of Veronica Bowler, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Bowler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Are you feeling overwhelmed or exhausted and finding daily life difficult to manage. Are you dealing with a difficult person, or stressed with family life, relationships, experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression or trauma. I can help and we can work together to find solutions. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Supervisor in Texas. I am also EMDR trained. I utilize an integrative approach with evidence-based models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focused Therapy and EMDR.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or exhausted and finding daily life difficult to manage. Are you dealing with a difficult person, or stressed with family life, relationships, experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression or trauma. I can help and we can work together to find solutions. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Supervisor in Texas. I am also EMDR trained. I utilize an integrative approach with evidence-based models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focused Therapy and EMDR.
(409) 215-0150 View (409) 215-0150
Photo of Andi P Martinez, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andi P Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping individuals learn more about themselves and finding balance in the different areas of their lives through creative therapy and talk therapy. I specialize in substance use disorders, communication skills, and emotional regulation. I believe in the indivisible connection between the body and the mind, focusing on how our mental health affects our bodies and how our physical health affects our minds. I connect with clients using a person-centered approach, but I value the structure of behavioral techniques and the benefits of motivational interviewing to help promote change.
I enjoy helping individuals learn more about themselves and finding balance in the different areas of their lives through creative therapy and talk therapy. I specialize in substance use disorders, communication skills, and emotional regulation. I believe in the indivisible connection between the body and the mind, focusing on how our mental health affects our bodies and how our physical health affects our minds. I connect with clients using a person-centered approach, but I value the structure of behavioral techniques and the benefits of motivational interviewing to help promote change.
(217) 225-5909 View (217) 225-5909
Photo of Angela Gray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strives to create a calm, safe, and supported environment to discuss difficult things. It is often a struggle to reach out and ask for help and I want to assist you in making the rest of the process as easy as possible.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strives to create a calm, safe, and supported environment to discuss difficult things. It is often a struggle to reach out and ask for help and I want to assist you in making the rest of the process as easy as possible.
(832) 979-7528 View (832) 979-7528
Photo of Kirsten Reynolds - Gracefully Rooted Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gracefully Rooted Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
Are looking to heal from childhood wounds, family of origin pain, relationship issues, or traumatic experiences? Have you experienced difficult things in life and know that it’s affecting you but haven’t known how to address it other than talking about it? My clients are aware that their past experiences affect who they are & how they show up in the world & are ready to shift things by addressing their pain. I specialize in helping people achieve lasting relief & growth from the experiences that shape & impact us. Learn more about canine therapy, intensive options, & take our quiz to see if we fit! www.gracefullyrootedcounseling.com
Are looking to heal from childhood wounds, family of origin pain, relationship issues, or traumatic experiences? Have you experienced difficult things in life and know that it’s affecting you but haven’t known how to address it other than talking about it? My clients are aware that their past experiences affect who they are & how they show up in the world & are ready to shift things by addressing their pain. I specialize in helping people achieve lasting relief & growth from the experiences that shape & impact us. Learn more about canine therapy, intensive options, & take our quiz to see if we fit! www.gracefullyrootedcounseling.com
(281) 559-7716 View (281) 559-7716
Photo of Kate Akers, MEd, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Akers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Everyone goes through difficult times in their lives where they feel unsettled and unsure of their direction. Maybe you're right at the edge of what you can handle or you may feel completely underwater. Whether you are struggling with your marriage, family relations or seeking individual help Kate is passionate about helping clients become the healthiest versions of themselves. She has a background in providing group, family and individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults suffering from depression, anxiety and substance abuse in a mental health facility.
Everyone goes through difficult times in their lives where they feel unsettled and unsure of their direction. Maybe you're right at the edge of what you can handle or you may feel completely underwater. Whether you are struggling with your marriage, family relations or seeking individual help Kate is passionate about helping clients become the healthiest versions of themselves. She has a background in providing group, family and individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults suffering from depression, anxiety and substance abuse in a mental health facility.
(281) 941-6572 View (281) 941-6572
Photo of Linda L Richards, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda L Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
Please note: I am providing telehealth only at this time. Say no and mean it! Learn to believe in yourself! Our own thoughts/beliefs can cause us to feel ineffective or incapable. Struggling with anxiety, anger or family of origin difficulties(controlling or distant parents), low self esteem/self worth and toxic family systems can affect our ability to see ourselves realistically or be self critical. This can negatively affect our mood. You can learn to control anxiety and thoughts with techniques, practice, changing your self talk and addressing beliefs about yourself.
Please note: I am providing telehealth only at this time. Say no and mean it! Learn to believe in yourself! Our own thoughts/beliefs can cause us to feel ineffective or incapable. Struggling with anxiety, anger or family of origin difficulties(controlling or distant parents), low self esteem/self worth and toxic family systems can affect our ability to see ourselves realistically or be self critical. This can negatively affect our mood. You can learn to control anxiety and thoughts with techniques, practice, changing your self talk and addressing beliefs about yourself.
(281) 949-7103 View (281) 949-7103
Photo of Katherine Portillo, MEd, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Portillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Sometimes life can become unmanageable and we feel like there is no way out of certain situations. Our therapeutic focus is centered to every client's needs and personal situation. I like to focus on reframing thoughts and emotions and educating clients on resources that will make their life more manageable and help each client reach a sense of contentment.
Sometimes life can become unmanageable and we feel like there is no way out of certain situations. Our therapeutic focus is centered to every client's needs and personal situation. I like to focus on reframing thoughts and emotions and educating clients on resources that will make their life more manageable and help each client reach a sense of contentment.
(281) 771-1378 View (281) 771-1378
Photo of Della Boyer - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
(281) 645-5072 View (281) 645-5072
1

Motivational Interviewing Therapists

How does motivational interviewing work?

Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathizes, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.

Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?

Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviors in children.

How long does motivational interviewing last?

Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.

What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?

In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behavior.