Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Clinton, WA
![Photo of Dani L Rotta - Beyond the Couch Psychotherapy, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5115fa21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Congratulations for getting this far in your quest to enrich your life! Calling me (or any therapist) can be another challenging step. I offer a FREE 30-minute session to help you find the best person to assist you. My Therapeutic Approach revolves around you and your goals. My training supports our collaboration for your success attaining the life you want and deserve drawing on Family Systems Theory, Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM), EMDR, Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Voice Dialogue, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Processing (NLP), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), all within a holistic approach.
Congratulations for getting this far in your quest to enrich your life! Calling me (or any therapist) can be another challenging step. I offer a FREE 30-minute session to help you find the best person to assist you. My Therapeutic Approach revolves around you and your goals. My training supports our collaboration for your success attaining the life you want and deserve drawing on Family Systems Theory, Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM), EMDR, Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Voice Dialogue, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Processing (NLP), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), all within a holistic approach.
![Photo of Shaun Heitzman, MS, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42467e94-9643-493a-b470-40cabe713817/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm passionate about helping individuals and families harness their strengths and motivations to create positive change in their lives. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I've developed a unique approach that blends various therapeutic methods, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed practices, and existential therapy. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, PTSD, mood and behavior disorders, or anxiety, I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing. Let's connect and work together to achieve your goals and find a brighter path forward.
I'm passionate about helping individuals and families harness their strengths and motivations to create positive change in their lives. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I've developed a unique approach that blends various therapeutic methods, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed practices, and existential therapy. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, PTSD, mood and behavior disorders, or anxiety, I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing. Let's connect and work together to achieve your goals and find a brighter path forward.
![Photo of Sarah B Manchester - Sarah Manchester Therapy, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb8b596-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Manchester Therapy, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clinton, WA 98236 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked successfully with many people with many different diagnoses. Whether it's past trauma or abuse, depression, grief and loss, anger, anxiety, mood instability or low self esteem, I compassionately guide my clients in re-claiming their natural state of health and well being. I am committed to and respect the inherent human quality in all of my clients.
I have worked successfully with many people with many different diagnoses. Whether it's past trauma or abuse, depression, grief and loss, anger, anxiety, mood instability or low self esteem, I compassionately guide my clients in re-claiming their natural state of health and well being. I am committed to and respect the inherent human quality in all of my clients.
![Photo of Patrick Moll-Nevins, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51da8fa9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety, depression and other issues can take us off guard, blindsiding us by suddenly challenging our confidence, undermining our autonomy, and bringing to mind some of our most difficult experiences. It is common to assume these problems will go away on their own or if we just take a break. It is my experience that over time these problems reoccur in even more confusing and disorienting ways that might lead to crisis, leaving us feeling even more isolated and vulnerable. Sometimes the most difficult step is just asking for help, to place ourselves in a position of vulnerability.
Anxiety, depression and other issues can take us off guard, blindsiding us by suddenly challenging our confidence, undermining our autonomy, and bringing to mind some of our most difficult experiences. It is common to assume these problems will go away on their own or if we just take a break. It is my experience that over time these problems reoccur in even more confusing and disorienting ways that might lead to crisis, leaving us feeling even more isolated and vulnerable. Sometimes the most difficult step is just asking for help, to place ourselves in a position of vulnerability.
![Photo of Renee Tabor, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65a2ceb7-15f2-4587-84e3-a1dba439d067/1/320x400.jpeg)
Renee Tabor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton, WA 98236 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and Motivational Interviewing.
I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to become the best version of themselves. I want to walk alongside you and assist you in your own personal development. I believe that my role is to assist in facilitating your healing journey, provide feedback and encouragement, and allow for educational opportunities; however, you're doing the actual work of changing behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. I provide services outside of my full-time job and only see clients during the evenings, weekends, and holidays. I will get to know you as an individual and we will work from there!
I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and Motivational Interviewing.
I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to become the best version of themselves. I want to walk alongside you and assist you in your own personal development. I believe that my role is to assist in facilitating your healing journey, provide feedback and encouragement, and allow for educational opportunities; however, you're doing the actual work of changing behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. I provide services outside of my full-time job and only see clients during the evenings, weekends, and holidays. I will get to know you as an individual and we will work from there!
Diane Thiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, WA 98236 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have been practicing in WA since 2006 and before that Hawaii. I work with women only and phase of life issues. I have been trained in cognitive and dialectical therapy, have worked with addictions although no certified in the State. I welcome new Women clients on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 8 to 3
I have been practicing in WA since 2006 and before that Hawaii. I work with women only and phase of life issues. I have been trained in cognitive and dialectical therapy, have worked with addictions although no certified in the State. I welcome new Women clients on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 8 to 3
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Mandi Woolsey, LMHCA, MAEd, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df3ade00-71c4-455f-8e3d-a134f4d2a570/3/320x400.jpeg)
I pull from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness based approaches, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
What a rough ride it's been over the last several years....a real doozy! There are so many people struggling with feelings of overwhelm, stress, anger/rage, grief, disillusion, lack of trust, lack of safety, hopelessness, loneliness, anxiety....you name it! We all feel it at times but sometimes it gets to be too much for us to handle on our own. We need to process our feelings, be heard, be seen, connect, and find our way through this maze of life. Does this sound like you? NO shame in that. We are human.
I pull from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness based approaches, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
What a rough ride it's been over the last several years....a real doozy! There are so many people struggling with feelings of overwhelm, stress, anger/rage, grief, disillusion, lack of trust, lack of safety, hopelessness, loneliness, anxiety....you name it! We all feel it at times but sometimes it gets to be too much for us to handle on our own. We need to process our feelings, be heard, be seen, connect, and find our way through this maze of life. Does this sound like you? NO shame in that. We are human.
![Photo of Carolyn Akhtar, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26e0ab64-3de4-46dc-af6d-f7a16119f5cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Akhtar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98208 (Online Only)
I use an individualized combination of cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy and other strength based strategies to treat clients and support them in achieving time linked, measurable goals.
I am accepting new clients. There is no question life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we all just need a little extra support. I work with people from many walks of life dealing with many different situations. I treat adolescents, adults, couples and families with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life changes, relationships, addiction, trauma and many other challenges.
I use an individualized combination of cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy and other strength based strategies to treat clients and support them in achieving time linked, measurable goals.
I am accepting new clients. There is no question life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we all just need a little extra support. I work with people from many walks of life dealing with many different situations. I treat adolescents, adults, couples and families with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life changes, relationships, addiction, trauma and many other challenges.
![Photo of Michelle Kusterman, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74a8d92a-78b4-4621-ae33-79477808c2eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
The interventions that I use include but are not limited to the following: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Restorative Practices, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I believe in the importance of celebrating diversity and empowering individuals through a personalized therapeutic process. Having commitment and compassion at the forefront of services, to achieve best results and outcomes. I have provided services in the mental health field for eight years, serving children, adults, and families through individual, family, and group counseling settings. I am dedicated to helping identify the strengths and unique gifts of every individual, to help you reach your personal goals in therapy and beyond.
The interventions that I use include but are not limited to the following: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Restorative Practices, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I believe in the importance of celebrating diversity and empowering individuals through a personalized therapeutic process. Having commitment and compassion at the forefront of services, to achieve best results and outcomes. I have provided services in the mental health field for eight years, serving children, adults, and families through individual, family, and group counseling settings. I am dedicated to helping identify the strengths and unique gifts of every individual, to help you reach your personal goals in therapy and beyond.
![Photo of Jamie Collins, MA, MDiv, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab7363df-b1eb-43dd-ab9e-23eb31c32292/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your story is important and unique to you. What you bring into the counseling session is more than a diagnosis or problems you are struggling with. Reaching out for support today is a significant step in getting to where you want to go - congrats! I am a collaborative therapist who sits with people empathetically and kindly. I work with clients hearing their story and listening for the sticking points that need attention. My approach is client-centered that builds a relationship with the client. I draw on the many interventions I am trained in; trauma-informed CBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing.
Your story is important and unique to you. What you bring into the counseling session is more than a diagnosis or problems you are struggling with. Reaching out for support today is a significant step in getting to where you want to go - congrats! I am a collaborative therapist who sits with people empathetically and kindly. I work with clients hearing their story and listening for the sticking points that need attention. My approach is client-centered that builds a relationship with the client. I draw on the many interventions I am trained in; trauma-informed CBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing.
![Photo of Jenna Abrams, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7586e999-bdc5-46b4-b17d-885bcb58d989/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Abrams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mukilteo, WA 98275 (Online Only)
I utilize psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution- focused therapy, and goal-oriented therapy.
Hi there! I am currently accepting new WA and NC Telehealth clients. Learning to trust someone is hard, but having to face difficult experiences alone can be even harder. I am here to help you make that journey (feel) easier, and help you grow at the same time. Using a holistic, person-centered approach, I will learn what makes you who you are, and will develop a unique treatment plan tailored to your needs. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, people of all orientations, and with military members and their families. I value support and validation but encourage solutions and change.
I utilize psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution- focused therapy, and goal-oriented therapy.
Hi there! I am currently accepting new WA and NC Telehealth clients. Learning to trust someone is hard, but having to face difficult experiences alone can be even harder. I am here to help you make that journey (feel) easier, and help you grow at the same time. Using a holistic, person-centered approach, I will learn what makes you who you are, and will develop a unique treatment plan tailored to your needs. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, people of all orientations, and with military members and their families. I value support and validation but encourage solutions and change.
![Photo of Haily Haight, MS, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/205412f3-9b2a-4b7d-9497-42b767d11da9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities to treat clients, including person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), expressive arts therapy, narrative therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate who works with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I believe that people are unique individuals who hold expertise about themselves and their lives. I partner with my clients to build a strong therapeutic relationship, knowing we all need help at times to overcome obstacles. I bring compassion and authenticity to the therapeutic process and tailor therapy to each individual I see.
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities to treat clients, including person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), expressive arts therapy, narrative therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate who works with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I believe that people are unique individuals who hold expertise about themselves and their lives. I partner with my clients to build a strong therapeutic relationship, knowing we all need help at times to overcome obstacles. I bring compassion and authenticity to the therapeutic process and tailor therapy to each individual I see.
![Photo of Doralissa Griffin, LMHC, MS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5e5f50-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of therapy methods including Brief Therapy, Trauma Recovery, CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and IFS.
I am a fully Licensed Mental Health Counselor and therapist. I provide counseling and life enrichment services for adults and groups. My office is a safe atmosphere welcoming diversity in culture, in sexual orientation, religion, and other factors of difference. Our lives can be wonderful, tragic, amazing, challenging and even overwhelming as we go on many journeys and walk on many paths. Difficulties like depression, anxiety, addictions, and trauma can add blocks and pit falls on our life paths. I would like to help you figure out how to make the journey with balance and empowerment.
I use a variety of therapy methods including Brief Therapy, Trauma Recovery, CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and IFS.
I am a fully Licensed Mental Health Counselor and therapist. I provide counseling and life enrichment services for adults and groups. My office is a safe atmosphere welcoming diversity in culture, in sexual orientation, religion, and other factors of difference. Our lives can be wonderful, tragic, amazing, challenging and even overwhelming as we go on many journeys and walk on many paths. Difficulties like depression, anxiety, addictions, and trauma can add blocks and pit falls on our life paths. I would like to help you figure out how to make the journey with balance and empowerment.
![Photo of Megan Johnson, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca6279ff-d797-4a16-86f3-db78e292bcfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Johnson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is person-centered and trauma-informed, with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Reality Therapy, and mindfulness.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where you can take steps towards healing, growth, and wellness. My hope is to create a safe space to work through difficult times, overcome challenges, and gain the insight and tools needed to achieve your counseling goals. I am dually licensed in both mental health and substance use disorder counseling.
My therapeutic approach is person-centered and trauma-informed, with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Reality Therapy, and mindfulness.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where you can take steps towards healing, growth, and wellness. My hope is to create a safe space to work through difficult times, overcome challenges, and gain the insight and tools needed to achieve your counseling goals. I am dually licensed in both mental health and substance use disorder counseling.
![Photo of Ahlam Bouman Ali, LSWAIC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe71640d-9d00-441a-b492-bffe420111c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide counseling for adults and am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), and motivational interviewing.
As a clinical social worker, I aim to guide individuals to identify their strengths and resilience to start their healing journey and regain control of their lives. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to help them identify their counseling goals and improve their quality of life.
I provide counseling for adults and am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), and motivational interviewing.
As a clinical social worker, I aim to guide individuals to identify their strengths and resilience to start their healing journey and regain control of their lives. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to help them identify their counseling goals and improve their quality of life.
![Photo of Regina A. Blackwolf - Regina A. BlackWolf, MSW, MSW, LICSW, SUDP, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fb661bd-e2b8-4238-a8cd-60dc1a3c2156/3/320x400.jpeg)
Regina A. BlackWolf, MSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize several clinical orientations including Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, Motivational Interviewing/Enhancement, Gestalt Therapy.
Approaching Authenticity: Life presents challenges that can feel like barriers to our true selves. Whether struggling to cope with major life changes, managing feelings, substance abuse issues, sense of self, relationships, or "feeling OK in my own skin," we can all benefit from a therapeutic relationship. My role is to help people find perspective, empower people to take steps to make positive change, and provide a safe, supportive atmosphere that is free of judgment. My approach is client-centered, strength-perspective, and I work to create a therapeutic relationship in which people can discover and take actions appropriate to improve one's life.
I utilize several clinical orientations including Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, Motivational Interviewing/Enhancement, Gestalt Therapy.
Approaching Authenticity: Life presents challenges that can feel like barriers to our true selves. Whether struggling to cope with major life changes, managing feelings, substance abuse issues, sense of self, relationships, or "feeling OK in my own skin," we can all benefit from a therapeutic relationship. My role is to help people find perspective, empower people to take steps to make positive change, and provide a safe, supportive atmosphere that is free of judgment. My approach is client-centered, strength-perspective, and I work to create a therapeutic relationship in which people can discover and take actions appropriate to improve one's life.
![Photo of Mallory Rigby - Cultivating Changes Counseling, MA, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/085a5992-4b3a-4b04-abd2-4e9a930155ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cultivating Changes Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mukilteo, WA 98275 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
This includes utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and EMDR.
I will bring my experience, as we collaborate together on your goals while you set the pace. I'm a good fit for clients who are ready to explore their thoughts, feelings, & behaviors & seek to take personal responsibility for their needs & relate to themselves & others. I specialize in helping heal from trauma. I have experience working with PTSD, anxiety, depression, social anxiety, building of social/communication skills, building healthy & effective boundaries & rewarding relationships. Heal, move forward & grow to your full potential.
This includes utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and EMDR.
I will bring my experience, as we collaborate together on your goals while you set the pace. I'm a good fit for clients who are ready to explore their thoughts, feelings, & behaviors & seek to take personal responsibility for their needs & relate to themselves & others. I specialize in helping heal from trauma. I have experience working with PTSD, anxiety, depression, social anxiety, building of social/communication skills, building healthy & effective boundaries & rewarding relationships. Heal, move forward & grow to your full potential.
![Photo of Alizia Shook, MSW, LSWAIC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/091ef925-11e8-489f-ba3d-73e4cf41031c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize a number of modalities: cognitive behavioral therapy, multisystemic therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I enjoy helping others by empowering and supporting them through their journey in life. It is inspirational to see how resilient and strong humans can be when faced with adversity. I believe that events shape us but the actions we take each day define who we are. I specialized in child and adolescent mental health. Most of my experience is with depression, anxiety, substance usage, family relationship, and trauma.
I utilize a number of modalities: cognitive behavioral therapy, multisystemic therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I enjoy helping others by empowering and supporting them through their journey in life. It is inspirational to see how resilient and strong humans can be when faced with adversity. I believe that events shape us but the actions we take each day define who we are. I specialized in child and adolescent mental health. Most of my experience is with depression, anxiety, substance usage, family relationship, and trauma.
![Photo of Jordan A Griggs, LMSW, LSWAIC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e2f2176-a27c-4a40-ac2c-972f7a241f57/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, strength-based therapy, and motivational interviewing as treatment modalities.
My name is Jordan Griggs, and I am a LSWAIC-Associate in Washington, supervised by Kristen Jacobson (LICSW- Supervisor). I also hold an LMSW-Associate license in Georgia. I have a Master of Social Work degree from Florida State University and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Troy University.
I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, strength-based therapy, and motivational interviewing as treatment modalities.
My name is Jordan Griggs, and I am a LSWAIC-Associate in Washington, supervised by Kristen Jacobson (LICSW- Supervisor). I also hold an LMSW-Associate license in Georgia. I have a Master of Social Work degree from Florida State University and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Troy University.
![Photo of Dr. Kris Lau, PhD, LMHC, GMHS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/853fbc94-e869-4257-855d-d408b7c90b47/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Kris Lau, PhD, LMHC. I provide supportive counseling, skills and tools to help adults, older adults and caregivers with depression, stress / adjustment, life transitions and grief and loss. I have been described by clients and colleagues as down-to-earth, empathic and compassionate and would be honored to work with you. Our work together is tailored to your specific needs. My overall approach is eclectic with a foundation in humanistic psychology and the wellness model. I also draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness based practices.
My name is Kris Lau, PhD, LMHC. I provide supportive counseling, skills and tools to help adults, older adults and caregivers with depression, stress / adjustment, life transitions and grief and loss. I have been described by clients and colleagues as down-to-earth, empathic and compassionate and would be honored to work with you. Our work together is tailored to your specific needs. My overall approach is eclectic with a foundation in humanistic psychology and the wellness model. I also draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness based practices.
See more therapy options for Clinton
Nearby Motivational Interviewing Therapists Searches for Clinton
- Edmonds
- Everett
- Freeland
- Kingston
- Lake Forest Park
- Langley
- Marysville
- Mill Creek
- Mountlake Terrace
- Mukilteo
- Shoreline
- Snohomish
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.