Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Stephenville, TX

Photo of Shelley Goad, BS BHS, LCDC, LADAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Shelley Goad
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS BHS, LCDC, LADAC
Verified Verified
Stephenville, TX 76401
I utilize Person-Centered Therapy; CBT and DBT as well as Motivational Interviewing.
My primary goal is to walk alongside you while trust is developed so that you feel seen and heard. Every client is unique; therefore we will collaborate on an individual plan together. I strive to listen carefully and respond with empathy. I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency in all interactions. I take pride in my ability to be real and authentic while effectively challenging you to tap into your own strength! I am a Person in Long-Term Recovery since July of 2007. My story, and my journey allow me to meet clients where they are while shining my light to guide them to freedom.
I utilize Person-Centered Therapy; CBT and DBT as well as Motivational Interviewing.
My primary goal is to walk alongside you while trust is developed so that you feel seen and heard. Every client is unique; therefore we will collaborate on an individual plan together. I strive to listen carefully and respond with empathy. I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency in all interactions. I take pride in my ability to be real and authentic while effectively challenging you to tap into your own strength! I am a Person in Long-Term Recovery since July of 2007. My story, and my journey allow me to meet clients where they are while shining my light to guide them to freedom.
(254) 527-6931 View (254) 527-6931
Photo of Cori East-Long, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cori East-Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stephenville, TX 76401  (Online Only)
I am Cori Jo East-Long. a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Tarleton State University. I have worked in the mental health field for over 8 years. I have a history of working with clients with depression and anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse issues. My other areas of expertise include foster care, adoption, parenting issues, and LGBTQ+ issues. I use approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and Adlerian therapy.
I am Cori Jo East-Long. a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Tarleton State University. I have worked in the mental health field for over 8 years. I have a history of working with clients with depression and anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse issues. My other areas of expertise include foster care, adoption, parenting issues, and LGBTQ+ issues. I use approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and Adlerian therapy.
(844) 721-5843 View (844) 721-5843
Photo of Shannon Engbrecht, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Engbrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stephenville, TX 76401
I have received training and practice in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), play therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and CBT, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.
My work is meant to connect with those who are having challenges with seeing a way to move forward from hard experiences, are giving their all to care for others and are needing support for themselves, are experiencing difficult life transitions, and who are having difficulty in working through the trenches of depression and anxiety. In our work together you will be able to break free from past experiences, find hope and increase resiliency, and discover joy that you once knew or are trying to find. You are welcome to come just the way you are.
I have received training and practice in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), play therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and CBT, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.
My work is meant to connect with those who are having challenges with seeing a way to move forward from hard experiences, are giving their all to care for others and are needing support for themselves, are experiencing difficult life transitions, and who are having difficulty in working through the trenches of depression and anxiety. In our work together you will be able to break free from past experiences, find hope and increase resiliency, and discover joy that you once knew or are trying to find. You are welcome to come just the way you are.
(682) 243-4965 View (682) 243-4965
Photo of Terah Gibson - Onyx Therapeutic Counseling, PLLC, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Onyx Therapeutic Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Stephenville, TX 76401  (Online Only)
Onyx Therapeutic Counseling can provide guidance to evaluate perspectives and make changes! A skilled counselor can guide and support you through trials and tribulations of your life. Through therapy we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Our goal as counselors is to create a supportive environment in which our clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential.
Onyx Therapeutic Counseling can provide guidance to evaluate perspectives and make changes! A skilled counselor can guide and support you through trials and tribulations of your life. Through therapy we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Our goal as counselors is to create a supportive environment in which our clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential.
(254) 454-4156 View (254) 454-4156
Photo of Debra Swindle Lucas, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Swindle Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Stephenville, TX 76401
I am a trained Trauma Focused CBT therapist as well as a certified EMDR therapist. I work with those experiencing anxiety, depression, negative habits, adjustment to new environments and situations, grief, and issues of abuse and anger management. My focus is on children from 2-18, young adults and adults through the age of 99.
I am a trained Trauma Focused CBT therapist as well as a certified EMDR therapist. I work with those experiencing anxiety, depression, negative habits, adjustment to new environments and situations, grief, and issues of abuse and anger management. My focus is on children from 2-18, young adults and adults through the age of 99.
(254) 323-0197 View (254) 323-0197
Photo of Georgie Bliss Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgie Bliss Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stephenville, TX 76401  (Online Only)
Experiencing anxiety or having difficulty processing trauma can make life difficult. With my experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with trauma and anxiety we can find the most appropriate approach for treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy, and/or mindfulness. Becoming a mental health professional has always been a passion of mine because I enjoy seeing people overcoming barriers and utilizing their strengths.
Experiencing anxiety or having difficulty processing trauma can make life difficult. With my experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with trauma and anxiety we can find the most appropriate approach for treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy, and/or mindfulness. Becoming a mental health professional has always been a passion of mine because I enjoy seeing people overcoming barriers and utilizing their strengths.
(254) 276-5727 View (254) 276-5727
Photo of Stacen B. Martinez, MS, LPC-A
Stacen B. Martinez
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stephenville, TX 76401
You don't want to go through the motions or go one more day without an all purposeful and passionate desire for your meaning in life. You want to stop looking back thinking "What could I have done differently or where did it all go wrong?" You want to move forward with a new beginning and refreshed sense of meaning and direction. It is absolutely not too late for you regardless of where you are or what you are seeking. It's possible to change for the better, seek for the better, and be you for your betterment. Be you for you.
You don't want to go through the motions or go one more day without an all purposeful and passionate desire for your meaning in life. You want to stop looking back thinking "What could I have done differently or where did it all go wrong?" You want to move forward with a new beginning and refreshed sense of meaning and direction. It is absolutely not too late for you regardless of where you are or what you are seeking. It's possible to change for the better, seek for the better, and be you for your betterment. Be you for you.
(254) 284-5335 View (254) 284-5335
Photo of Laura J Adams, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura J Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Stephenville, TX 76401
Sometimes the help we need goes beyond talking to a friend; we need professional guidance. The decision to begin counseling and find a therapist can be stressful. Fear can keep us from moving forward. We sabotage ourselves with behaviors that keep us from reaching our potential. Unlocking the potential in each person I counsel is my passion. I work to create a collaborative, comfortable and supportive environment. I specialize in addiction issues, relationship problems, anger management, resolution of trauma and abuse. I help guide my clients through the grief process from significant losses, e.g. death, job loss, and divorce.
Sometimes the help we need goes beyond talking to a friend; we need professional guidance. The decision to begin counseling and find a therapist can be stressful. Fear can keep us from moving forward. We sabotage ourselves with behaviors that keep us from reaching our potential. Unlocking the potential in each person I counsel is my passion. I work to create a collaborative, comfortable and supportive environment. I specialize in addiction issues, relationship problems, anger management, resolution of trauma and abuse. I help guide my clients through the grief process from significant losses, e.g. death, job loss, and divorce.
(254) 434-6183 View (254) 434-6183
Photo of Jill E Brown - Jill E Brown, LCDC, PLLC, LCDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jill E Brown, LCDC, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stephenville, TX 76401
Are you or others concerned about your substance use? Are you trying to manage symptoms of deeper problems by escaping, numbing or avoiding? Do you lack the coping skills to address emotional, physical, environmental and psychological factors that often contribute to drug and/or alcohol abuse? I can assess problematic use and address issues through effective skill-building, such as communication, and develop a customized treatment plan that will help you explore your addiction and gain insight, all provided in a safe, confidential atmosphere where you and your family can learn acceptance, regain trust, and thrive in recovery.
Are you or others concerned about your substance use? Are you trying to manage symptoms of deeper problems by escaping, numbing or avoiding? Do you lack the coping skills to address emotional, physical, environmental and psychological factors that often contribute to drug and/or alcohol abuse? I can assess problematic use and address issues through effective skill-building, such as communication, and develop a customized treatment plan that will help you explore your addiction and gain insight, all provided in a safe, confidential atmosphere where you and your family can learn acceptance, regain trust, and thrive in recovery.
(682) 267-4574 View (682) 267-4574

Online Therapists

Photo of Preston Ivey, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Preston Ivey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75252
My training is influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Social Thinking.
I’m passionate about working with children, adolescents, and families to reach goals for positive growth. I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with children and adolescents, and I work closely with families to help parents understand how to better support their child. I am trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), an evidence-based treatment program for parents of children with anxiety and OCD. I have additional experience through BTTI (Behavioral Therapist Training Institute; International OCD Foundation), an intensive training course in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
My training is influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Social Thinking.
I’m passionate about working with children, adolescents, and families to reach goals for positive growth. I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with children and adolescents, and I work closely with families to help parents understand how to better support their child. I am trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), an evidence-based treatment program for parents of children with anxiety and OCD. I have additional experience through BTTI (Behavioral Therapist Training Institute; International OCD Foundation), an intensive training course in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
(972) 843-7635 View (972) 843-7635
Photo of Monica Kline, LPC-ASS
Monica Kline
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-ASS
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76116  (Online Only)
I use CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing and a mindfulness approach to therapy.
Looking for a safe space to work on "issues" that prevent you from living your best life. I desire to help you if you feel stuck and stagnant, knowing there is more to life than being weighed down with depression, anxiety, fear, shame, and or guilt.
I use CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing and a mindfulness approach to therapy.
Looking for a safe space to work on "issues" that prevent you from living your best life. I desire to help you if you feel stuck and stagnant, knowing there is more to life than being weighed down with depression, anxiety, fear, shame, and or guilt.
(817) 677-6563 View (817) 677-6563
Photo of Cynthia Kemp, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Kemp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76105
My name is Cynthia Kemp, LPC, currently work as a licensed practitioner of the healing arts at a mental health clinic and have worked there for the last 4 years. My approach is nonjudgmental and accepting of all individuals that I talk with as we build an alliance to work together. I realize that each individual is different, and I need to adjust treatment to fit that unique individual. I practice from several models dependent upon the needs of the client. Listed are the most common approaches that I use for treatment: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Person-Centered, Supportive Therapy.
My name is Cynthia Kemp, LPC, currently work as a licensed practitioner of the healing arts at a mental health clinic and have worked there for the last 4 years. My approach is nonjudgmental and accepting of all individuals that I talk with as we build an alliance to work together. I realize that each individual is different, and I need to adjust treatment to fit that unique individual. I practice from several models dependent upon the needs of the client. Listed are the most common approaches that I use for treatment: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Person-Centered, Supportive Therapy.
(915) 666-3833 View (915) 666-3833
Photo of Alison Johnson, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104
I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, Certified Psychedelic Assisted Therapist, trained in Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and utilize a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate the therapeutic process.
How can I help? Not only is this the question that you may be asking as you look at multiple profiles searching for a therapist, but this is a question that I have been asking along my journey in life which led me to the field of behavioral health and wellness. It is my goal to help you unlock and unblock the things that may be beneath the surface in order to create an environment that cultivates healing and contentment in the current moment. I have helped individuals with various mental health diagnoses to create affective plans to maintain wellness and have assisted with a range of issues including grief, abuse, life transitions.
I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, Certified Psychedelic Assisted Therapist, trained in Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and utilize a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate the therapeutic process.
How can I help? Not only is this the question that you may be asking as you look at multiple profiles searching for a therapist, but this is a question that I have been asking along my journey in life which led me to the field of behavioral health and wellness. It is my goal to help you unlock and unblock the things that may be beneath the surface in order to create an environment that cultivates healing and contentment in the current moment. I have helped individuals with various mental health diagnoses to create affective plans to maintain wellness and have assisted with a range of issues including grief, abuse, life transitions.
(817) 646-8333 View (817) 646-8333
Photo of Esther C, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esther C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I use a combination of therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing to focus on your strengths.
You deserve to live a healthy life. I am a clinical social worker and supervisor who has worked with adults and older adults for over a decade.
I use a combination of therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing to focus on your strengths.
You deserve to live a healthy life. I am a clinical social worker and supervisor who has worked with adults and older adults for over a decade.
(830) 376-7654 View (830) 376-7654
Photo of Malory Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malory Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waxahachie, TX 75165
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 Kimberly Stapert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Stapert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Common theoretical approaches that I utilize include CBT, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing.
Kimberly Stapert Beard, MSW, LCSW has over 20 years of clinical experience. Kimberly strives to build authentic relationships founded on unconditional positive regard in order to facilitate holistic growth, hope, and healing. Whether you are struggling with a temporary setback or an ongoing problem, I can assist you; there is HOPE. It is my belief that, as human beings, we all face life challenges, be they relational, personal, emotional, spiritual, or physical, and our mental health affects how we respond to these challenges. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling for youth (age 10+) and adults.
Common theoretical approaches that I utilize include CBT, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing.
Kimberly Stapert Beard, MSW, LCSW has over 20 years of clinical experience. Kimberly strives to build authentic relationships founded on unconditional positive regard in order to facilitate holistic growth, hope, and healing. Whether you are struggling with a temporary setback or an ongoing problem, I can assist you; there is HOPE. It is my belief that, as human beings, we all face life challenges, be they relational, personal, emotional, spiritual, or physical, and our mental health affects how we respond to these challenges. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling for youth (age 10+) and adults.
(832) 281-4304 View (832) 281-4304
Photo of Lashana Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lashana Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is LaShana, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have experience working through many types of life challenges including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anger management, occupational stress and self-esteem issues. My therapy approach is client-centered, and the treatment modalities I prefer to use are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing.
Hi! My name is LaShana, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have experience working through many types of life challenges including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anger management, occupational stress and self-esteem issues. My therapy approach is client-centered, and the treatment modalities I prefer to use are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing.
(346) 550-9451 View (346) 550-9451
Photo of Kenethia Morgan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenethia Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75202  (Online Only)
My goal is to work with you on the goals and tasks that are most important to you so that you can get the best results and be empowered to be the best version of YOU! I use different treatment modalities customized to your needs including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and REBT.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor in Texas with 7 years of professional counseling experience. My strengths include working with people who need help with coping with depression, PTSD, anxiety, managing overwhelming stress of daily life, have issues in relationships with significant others or workplace, may struggle with identifying and coping with their feelings or emotions, have low self esteem or lack of positive support systems. If any of these things are negatively impacting you, I can help you work towards a powerful transformation.
My goal is to work with you on the goals and tasks that are most important to you so that you can get the best results and be empowered to be the best version of YOU! I use different treatment modalities customized to your needs including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and REBT.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor in Texas with 7 years of professional counseling experience. My strengths include working with people who need help with coping with depression, PTSD, anxiety, managing overwhelming stress of daily life, have issues in relationships with significant others or workplace, may struggle with identifying and coping with their feelings or emotions, have low self esteem or lack of positive support systems. If any of these things are negatively impacting you, I can help you work towards a powerful transformation.
(469) 966-2501 View (469) 966-2501
Photo of Tabitha Jones - Get Out Of Your Head Therapy Texas, MSW, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Get Out Of Your Head Therapy Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76712  (Online Only)
She uses an eclectic style including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, Motivational Interviewing, Active Parenting, and Psychodynamic Theory.
Tabitha decided to go into social work and counseling because she wanted to help people learn how to become the best versions of themselves. Tabitha has experience and passion working with individuals who are adjusting to major life changes such as birth of a child, becoming an empty nester, job changes, changes in marital status, etc. She has experience with helping clients learn to cope and thrive with mood disorders including anxiety, depression, and bi-polar diagnoses. Tabitha also works with patients experiencing disordered eating as well as adults and teens with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
She uses an eclectic style including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, Motivational Interviewing, Active Parenting, and Psychodynamic Theory.
Tabitha decided to go into social work and counseling because she wanted to help people learn how to become the best versions of themselves. Tabitha has experience and passion working with individuals who are adjusting to major life changes such as birth of a child, becoming an empty nester, job changes, changes in marital status, etc. She has experience with helping clients learn to cope and thrive with mood disorders including anxiety, depression, and bi-polar diagnoses. Tabitha also works with patients experiencing disordered eating as well as adults and teens with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(859) 376-1831 View (859) 376-1831
Photo of Jan Anselmo-Henson, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jan Anselmo-Henson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Colony, TX 75056  (Online Only)
I utilize Reality Therapy, Motivational Interviewing skills as well as Emotional Transformation Therapy to facilitate change and healing in my clients.
I specialize in addictions (both adult and adolescent) and parent child relationships with teenagers. I work with young adults in helping them transition from high school to college to adult life. I have also had a great deal of experience working with victims of sexual abuse (both adult and adolescent). I believe in helping people define what they want and help them figure out a plan to work towards that goal. As a therapist who has formerly worked in full time ministry I also enjoy working with people who are dealing with religious issues whether it is deconstruction or helping them develop the spiritual life they want.
I utilize Reality Therapy, Motivational Interviewing skills as well as Emotional Transformation Therapy to facilitate change and healing in my clients.
I specialize in addictions (both adult and adolescent) and parent child relationships with teenagers. I work with young adults in helping them transition from high school to college to adult life. I have also had a great deal of experience working with victims of sexual abuse (both adult and adolescent). I believe in helping people define what they want and help them figure out a plan to work towards that goal. As a therapist who has formerly worked in full time ministry I also enjoy working with people who are dealing with religious issues whether it is deconstruction or helping them develop the spiritual life they want.
(214) 380-2650 View (214) 380-2650

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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.