Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Kirkland, WA

Photo of Teri Wood - Teri Wood, MA, PLLC, MA, PLLC, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Teri Wood, MA, PLLC
Counselor, MA, PLLC, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034
Waitlist for new clients
While working with me, you may note I borrow techniques from CBT, Narrative, Play & Art Therapies, what many refer to as talk therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy, Sand Tray, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and more.
I believe that all persons have the basic right to be heard. We all have experiences that make us who we are, some of which we may need or wish to explore further or heal from. Together in counseling we can create a safe place to work toward agreed upon goals.
While working with me, you may note I borrow techniques from CBT, Narrative, Play & Art Therapies, what many refer to as talk therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy, Sand Tray, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and more.
I believe that all persons have the basic right to be heard. We all have experiences that make us who we are, some of which we may need or wish to explore further or heal from. Together in counseling we can create a safe place to work toward agreed upon goals.
(206) 429-4523 View (206) 429-4523
Photo of Hannah Rea, Psychologist
Hannah Rea
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
I have training in a variety of evidence-based interventions for autism, anxiety, and challenging behaviors, including CBT, RUBI Parent Training, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the Seattle area with over 10 years of experience. I provide evidence-based consultations, therapy, and assessments with a strength-based perspective to provide families and individuals with skills and support. I help caregivers and their children as they seek services, assessments, and new ways of interacting. I have a particularly strong background in working with families focused on neurodiversity (e.g., autism, ADHD), behavioral and emotional difficulties, anxiety, and genetic syndrome concerns. I currently have no waitlist for therapy or assessments.
I have training in a variety of evidence-based interventions for autism, anxiety, and challenging behaviors, including CBT, RUBI Parent Training, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the Seattle area with over 10 years of experience. I provide evidence-based consultations, therapy, and assessments with a strength-based perspective to provide families and individuals with skills and support. I help caregivers and their children as they seek services, assessments, and new ways of interacting. I have a particularly strong background in working with families focused on neurodiversity (e.g., autism, ADHD), behavioral and emotional difficulties, anxiety, and genetic syndrome concerns. I currently have no waitlist for therapy or assessments.
(425) 842-2494 View (425) 842-2494
Photo of Amanda Kieser, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Amanda Kieser
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
My therapeutic approach draws upon ideas from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Narrative Therapy.
Sending you the best on your therapy journey! I work with adult women, non-binary people, and gender expansive individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and the impacts of previous trauma. I have specialized experience treating clients with disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image concerns as well. I particularly love client work that engages in identity exploration, reflecting on and healing attachment styles, and reparenting. While I am grateful for the accessibility to therapy that telehealth provides, I strongly prefer to meet with clients in person, as I find it to be exceptionally effective.
My therapeutic approach draws upon ideas from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Narrative Therapy.
Sending you the best on your therapy journey! I work with adult women, non-binary people, and gender expansive individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and the impacts of previous trauma. I have specialized experience treating clients with disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image concerns as well. I particularly love client work that engages in identity exploration, reflecting on and healing attachment styles, and reparenting. While I am grateful for the accessibility to therapy that telehealth provides, I strongly prefer to meet with clients in person, as I find it to be exceptionally effective.
(425) 600-1330 View (425) 600-1330
Photo of Madeline Kilpatrick, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeline Kilpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
I hold a license in Clinical Social Work in Washington State and specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Aggression Replacement Training and Motivational Interviewing.
In my therapeutic practice I seek to motivate clients to build the brain they want rather than feeling stuck with the one they have. By harnessing the power of cognitive restructuring, we can excel at tackling complex issues like dealing with stress, managing emotions, changing habits, controlling impulses and navigating complicated relationships in the same way that we would get better at any other skill; through dedication and practice! I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques and skills to help clients set and achieve their own therapeutic goals and try to instil a sense of hopefulness and resolve in every session.
I hold a license in Clinical Social Work in Washington State and specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Aggression Replacement Training and Motivational Interviewing.
In my therapeutic practice I seek to motivate clients to build the brain they want rather than feeling stuck with the one they have. By harnessing the power of cognitive restructuring, we can excel at tackling complex issues like dealing with stress, managing emotions, changing habits, controlling impulses and navigating complicated relationships in the same way that we would get better at any other skill; through dedication and practice! I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques and skills to help clients set and achieve their own therapeutic goals and try to instil a sense of hopefulness and resolve in every session.
(425) 598-0503 View (425) 598-0503
Photo of Whitnee Chavez, MA, LMHC
Whitnee Chavez
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
I am skilled in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Gottman Method.
Changing your life for the better is rewarding and possible! You most likely came here looking for emotional and practical support and tools. I am here to work with you. Together, we can work on your individual wants and needs, life transitions, and social dynamics. I work with adults, teens 15+, and diverse and fluid families. My focus is mainly life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar 1 & 2, ADHD, and PTSD/ trauma.
I am skilled in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Gottman Method.
Changing your life for the better is rewarding and possible! You most likely came here looking for emotional and practical support and tools. I am here to work with you. Together, we can work on your individual wants and needs, life transitions, and social dynamics. I work with adults, teens 15+, and diverse and fluid families. My focus is mainly life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar 1 & 2, ADHD, and PTSD/ trauma.
(425) 777-7952 View (425) 777-7952
Photo of Brendan Seibert, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Brendan Seibert
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Through CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and mindfulness practices I assist my clients in working through whatever trauma or stressor may be hindering their change.
Often change can be out of our control, yet I believe it can still lead to amazing opportunities for growth. I am myself very passionate about working with clients who need support around life changes and work through past trauma. I work with clients of all backgrounds to increase their sense of autonomy over their change whether that’s letting go of an addiction, getting back in the gym, or building better habits. Congratulations on taking the first step and I look forward to starting this journey with you.
Through CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and mindfulness practices I assist my clients in working through whatever trauma or stressor may be hindering their change.
Often change can be out of our control, yet I believe it can still lead to amazing opportunities for growth. I am myself very passionate about working with clients who need support around life changes and work through past trauma. I work with clients of all backgrounds to increase their sense of autonomy over their change whether that’s letting go of an addiction, getting back in the gym, or building better habits. Congratulations on taking the first step and I look forward to starting this journey with you.
(425) 658-9695 View (425) 658-9695
Photo of Erin Manhardt, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Erin Manhardt
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034
A few modalities I practice are Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Life never goes the way we plan, especially during adolescence and young adulthood. It feels like you know everything yet as time goes by, you realize there is so much more to learn. Once you think you have it figured out, life happens and your path completely changes. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington State, I offer Individual Therapy to Adolescents and Young Adults. I support clients experiencing challenges with academics, socializing, communication, problem solving, and time management. We will work together to determine your strengths and how to help you move towards positive change.
A few modalities I practice are Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Life never goes the way we plan, especially during adolescence and young adulthood. It feels like you know everything yet as time goes by, you realize there is so much more to learn. Once you think you have it figured out, life happens and your path completely changes. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington State, I offer Individual Therapy to Adolescents and Young Adults. I support clients experiencing challenges with academics, socializing, communication, problem solving, and time management. We will work together to determine your strengths and how to help you move towards positive change.
(206) 565-1579 View (206) 565-1579
Photo of Rachael Treiber, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Rachael Treiber
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My therapeutic approach is person-centered and strength-based, combining modalities of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy and mindfulness.
I provide individual counseling to adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, stress, relationships and work/life balance. We all face obstacles in life. During difficult times we can feel lost, stuck and/or intense emotions. Counseling can be a helpful, healthy way of addressing these challenges and feelings. Whether you are experiencing a long-standing issue or a more recent change, I can help you find the best way to move forward.
My therapeutic approach is person-centered and strength-based, combining modalities of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy and mindfulness.
I provide individual counseling to adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, stress, relationships and work/life balance. We all face obstacles in life. During difficult times we can feel lost, stuck and/or intense emotions. Counseling can be a helpful, healthy way of addressing these challenges and feelings. Whether you are experiencing a long-standing issue or a more recent change, I can help you find the best way to move forward.
(425) 585-2554 View (425) 585-2554
Photo of Aracelly Quezada, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aracelly Quezada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
My therapeutic approach is collaborative and supported by evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
I am a bilingual/bi-cultural (Spanish) psychotherapist and enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds. My main focus is working with adults struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, ADHD, chronic pain, peer conflict, acculturation, and grief/loss. I also have expertise in providing services to adults struggling with life transitions.
My therapeutic approach is collaborative and supported by evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
I am a bilingual/bi-cultural (Spanish) psychotherapist and enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds. My main focus is working with adults struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, ADHD, chronic pain, peer conflict, acculturation, and grief/loss. I also have expertise in providing services to adults struggling with life transitions.
(360) 383-5699 View (360) 383-5699
Photo of Analeigh Smith - Washington Counseling and Consulting, MSW, LICSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Washington Counseling and Consulting
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034  (Online Only)
I have training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety/depression, meaning and existence, personal growth, and stress. A few special areas of clinical focus are: LGBTQ+ issues, gender-affirming and neurodiversity-affirming care, and Multicultural/Identity issues.
I have training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety/depression, meaning and existence, personal growth, and stress. A few special areas of clinical focus are: LGBTQ+ issues, gender-affirming and neurodiversity-affirming care, and Multicultural/Identity issues.
(206) 589-1689 View (206) 589-1689
Photo of Lisa Farsje, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Farsje
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034
I view therapy through a relational, trauma-informed lens and use tools from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Welcoming New Clients! I work with individuals going through a major life transition such as burnout, personal loss, "empty nester syndrome", a career crisis, break-up/divorce, etc. They are surprised how this change has revealed things about themselves that have been too painful to acknowledge until now. Whether it's underlying anxiety or depression symptoms, perfectionism, "people-pleasing", regret, grief, emptiness or shame, they want to learn more about who they are so they can have a more fulfilling relationship with themselves and others.
I view therapy through a relational, trauma-informed lens and use tools from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Welcoming New Clients! I work with individuals going through a major life transition such as burnout, personal loss, "empty nester syndrome", a career crisis, break-up/divorce, etc. They are surprised how this change has revealed things about themselves that have been too painful to acknowledge until now. Whether it's underlying anxiety or depression symptoms, perfectionism, "people-pleasing", regret, grief, emptiness or shame, they want to learn more about who they are so they can have a more fulfilling relationship with themselves and others.
(425) 952-9542 View (425) 952-9542
Photo of Christina Perez, MA, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
In our sessions, I draw from a toolkit of therapeutic interventions that I wholeheartedly believe in, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, Strength-based therapy, mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello there! I'm Christina, and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to connect with you. I'm accepting new clients with availability within the week. My passion has always been centered around helping others live their best lives, and I bring a wealth of experience to the table. I understand the challenges of navigating anxiety, depression, building coping strategies, addiction, and trauma. Through my journey and professional work, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals of all ages and backgrounds, offering individual, family, and group therapy services.
In our sessions, I draw from a toolkit of therapeutic interventions that I wholeheartedly believe in, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, Strength-based therapy, mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello there! I'm Christina, and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to connect with you. I'm accepting new clients with availability within the week. My passion has always been centered around helping others live their best lives, and I bring a wealth of experience to the table. I understand the challenges of navigating anxiety, depression, building coping strategies, addiction, and trauma. Through my journey and professional work, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals of all ages and backgrounds, offering individual, family, and group therapy services.
(206) 590-7460 View (206) 590-7460
Photo of Annie Kilpatrick, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Annie Kilpatrick
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I incorporate trauma therapy such as Lifespan Integration, but may also use CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and talk therapy into my practice for a comprehensive approach.
Accepting new clients! Taking the initial step to start therapy can feel daunting, but I am here to support you. I work with teens and adults addressing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-harm. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and based on individual needs. As a practitioner who has experienced my own healing in physical and mental health, a holistic approach with trauma informed care are key parts of my practice. My goal is to create a safe space for teens to explore their identity and navigate strong emotions and giving adults a non judgmental space to express needs and begin healing.
I incorporate trauma therapy such as Lifespan Integration, but may also use CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and talk therapy into my practice for a comprehensive approach.
Accepting new clients! Taking the initial step to start therapy can feel daunting, but I am here to support you. I work with teens and adults addressing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-harm. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and based on individual needs. As a practitioner who has experienced my own healing in physical and mental health, a holistic approach with trauma informed care are key parts of my practice. My goal is to create a safe space for teens to explore their identity and navigate strong emotions and giving adults a non judgmental space to express needs and begin healing.
(425) 517-1915 View (425) 517-1915
Photo of Jeffrey Babcock, LMHC, Counselor
Jeffrey Babcock
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(425) 472-4061 View (425) 472-4061
Photo of Cheryl Stolz, PhD, Psychologist
Cheryl Stolz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Washington. I have considerable experience working with many issues, in both brief and long-term therapy, including life transitions, stress, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, abuse and trauma, disordered eating and body image, family and relationship issues, personality disorders, alcohol and drug issues, and thought disorders/schizophrenia. I have worked with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds including LGBTQ individuals.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Washington. I have considerable experience working with many issues, in both brief and long-term therapy, including life transitions, stress, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, abuse and trauma, disordered eating and body image, family and relationship issues, personality disorders, alcohol and drug issues, and thought disorders/schizophrenia. I have worked with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds including LGBTQ individuals.
(206) 535-1375 View (206) 535-1375
Photo of Vanessa Fulford - Fulford Innovative Counseling, MA, LMHC, LMFTA, Counselor
Fulford Innovative Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Many individuals may see you as the person that has it all together, but on the inside you feel very different. The emotional disregulation you are experiencing is becoming to much. You are your own worst critic and feel defeated in life. Feeling lonely and isolated even when around others. No one knows or understands the perpetual anxiety and depression that continues during your daily living. Your loosing sleep because of the racing thoughts that just won't leave. Going through life constantly thinking that there is something wrong with you is leading to destructive and suicidal thoughts. Your at the point of giving up.
Many individuals may see you as the person that has it all together, but on the inside you feel very different. The emotional disregulation you are experiencing is becoming to much. You are your own worst critic and feel defeated in life. Feeling lonely and isolated even when around others. No one knows or understands the perpetual anxiety and depression that continues during your daily living. Your loosing sleep because of the racing thoughts that just won't leave. Going through life constantly thinking that there is something wrong with you is leading to destructive and suicidal thoughts. Your at the point of giving up.
(425) 448-8469 View (425) 448-8469
Photo of Katherine Nagy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Nagy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I offer in person and/or telehealth and currently full. I offer a phone consultation if you feel that would help you determine compatibility. I work with issues such as anxiety, self -esteem/worth, body image, transition/phase of life issues, relational issues, grief and loss issues, and simple, intergenerational, and complex trauma. I primarily focus with individuals.
I offer in person and/or telehealth and currently full. I offer a phone consultation if you feel that would help you determine compatibility. I work with issues such as anxiety, self -esteem/worth, body image, transition/phase of life issues, relational issues, grief and loss issues, and simple, intergenerational, and complex trauma. I primarily focus with individuals.
(425) 406-3639 View (425) 406-3639
Photo of Marcelline LeTourneau, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Marcelline LeTourneau
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
It takes courage to seek help. Whether you are trying to make an important decision, facing a crisis, or in the middle of a major transition in your life, it makes sense to seek counsel. Sometime we’re feeling stuck and isolated while longing for more community and personal growth. Unresolved childhood issues, grief, and/or trauma can negatively impact your understanding of self and your view of others. It can lead to anxiety, depression and negatively affect your ability to develop healthy relationships.
It takes courage to seek help. Whether you are trying to make an important decision, facing a crisis, or in the middle of a major transition in your life, it makes sense to seek counsel. Sometime we’re feeling stuck and isolated while longing for more community and personal growth. Unresolved childhood issues, grief, and/or trauma can negatively impact your understanding of self and your view of others. It can lead to anxiety, depression and negatively affect your ability to develop healthy relationships.
(360) 233-8950 x1 View (360) 233-8950 x1
Photo of Rhonda Hinsperger, LMHC, Counselor
Rhonda Hinsperger
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(425) 584-5191 View (425) 584-5191
Photo of Oksana Thompson - Inner Wellness Counseling PLLC
Inner Wellness Counseling PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
Wellness is a journey, and reaching out for help is the first step to healing. At Inner Wellness Counseling, we have a passion for helping people get back to things that matter most to them. Our practice has a diverse group of therapists who specialize in working with youth and adults across multiple backgrounds, challenges, and life transitions. We believe in empowering clients to regain a sense of hope, courage, and self-worth.
Wellness is a journey, and reaching out for help is the first step to healing. At Inner Wellness Counseling, we have a passion for helping people get back to things that matter most to them. Our practice has a diverse group of therapists who specialize in working with youth and adults across multiple backgrounds, challenges, and life transitions. We believe in empowering clients to regain a sense of hope, courage, and self-worth.
(425) 441-3651 View (425) 441-3651
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.