Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Yakima County, WA
![Photo of Pamela D Russell, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eebc923-fa6d-4bbf-a0aa-ac5c1aaa37c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
CBTP, IMR, ACT strategies, Career Support, Motivational Interviewing, DBT skills and Mindfulness.
Hello and welcome. I have a few openings for in person visits in Yakima WA. I am able to take Aetna, Premera, Regence and Cigna insurances at my new office location at this time. All other insurances I can take via telehealth through MTG. I specialize in assisting adults who are struggling to manage high levels of stress. I have many years of experience working with adults in all stages of life and provide therapy for individuals struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorders, Chronic pain, Trauma and many other conditions and stressors including Career Stressors and Caregiving. I look forward to meeting you!
CBTP, IMR, ACT strategies, Career Support, Motivational Interviewing, DBT skills and Mindfulness.
Hello and welcome. I have a few openings for in person visits in Yakima WA. I am able to take Aetna, Premera, Regence and Cigna insurances at my new office location at this time. All other insurances I can take via telehealth through MTG. I specialize in assisting adults who are struggling to manage high levels of stress. I have many years of experience working with adults in all stages of life and provide therapy for individuals struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorders, Chronic pain, Trauma and many other conditions and stressors including Career Stressors and Caregiving. I look forward to meeting you!
![Photo of Jessica Valdez, LSWAIC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e809e87e-7f4a-4a6d-8bde-ace2f59374ba/1/320x400.jpeg)
I practice utilizing a blend of interventions, which include; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Art Therapy, Family Systems, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt, and Existential Therapy.
When our mind, body, and soul are aligned, we experience balance, which has a positive impact on our emotional and psychological well-being. I will support you in navigating thoughts and feelings that have harmed your personal life. My goal is to guide you in reaching your fullest potential and discovering the best version of yourself. Utilizing mindful techniques, I will assist you in shifting your thoughts from the past and future, and into the present moment. Working together, you will learn how to experience life in the here and now, and you will begin taking control of what matters the most, your life.
I practice utilizing a blend of interventions, which include; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Art Therapy, Family Systems, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt, and Existential Therapy.
When our mind, body, and soul are aligned, we experience balance, which has a positive impact on our emotional and psychological well-being. I will support you in navigating thoughts and feelings that have harmed your personal life. My goal is to guide you in reaching your fullest potential and discovering the best version of yourself. Utilizing mindful techniques, I will assist you in shifting your thoughts from the past and future, and into the present moment. Working together, you will learn how to experience life in the here and now, and you will begin taking control of what matters the most, your life.
![Photo of Leti Ramirez, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb3bbd52-446d-490c-ba37-f02ad82dd837/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize motivational interviewing techniques and practice from a strengths-based perspective, centering you as the skilled expert in your own life.
I am a Hispanic therapist skilled at supporting people through their anxiety and trauma. I am a LGBTQ+ ally, and value open-mindedness. My Mexican identity is an important part of me - growing up in a community that lacked diversity was difficult and I have made it a point to integrate my culture's strengths into my life and practice. I am able to create an environment that feels safe and non-judgmental. You are the expert in your life and I see my role as someone that comes beside as support. We will explore the things you would like to work on, as well as the things that bring you joy and make up your unique identity!
I utilize motivational interviewing techniques and practice from a strengths-based perspective, centering you as the skilled expert in your own life.
I am a Hispanic therapist skilled at supporting people through their anxiety and trauma. I am a LGBTQ+ ally, and value open-mindedness. My Mexican identity is an important part of me - growing up in a community that lacked diversity was difficult and I have made it a point to integrate my culture's strengths into my life and practice. I am able to create an environment that feels safe and non-judgmental. You are the expert in your life and I see my role as someone that comes beside as support. We will explore the things you would like to work on, as well as the things that bring you joy and make up your unique identity!
![Photo of Dr. Derek Hatfield, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8a99d4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As we encounter life's various problems, we occasionally find that professional help might be useful. I work with people who are looking for that additional professional assistance. Some of the most common reasons people come to work with me are depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem and anger management, among several others. I also work with couples. For the first 15 years of my career I also worked training doctoral students on how to be therapists while maintaining a private practice on the side. This has given me invaluable insight into the therapy work I do now in my full-time private practice.
As we encounter life's various problems, we occasionally find that professional help might be useful. I work with people who are looking for that additional professional assistance. Some of the most common reasons people come to work with me are depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem and anger management, among several others. I also work with couples. For the first 15 years of my career I also worked training doctoral students on how to be therapists while maintaining a private practice on the side. This has given me invaluable insight into the therapy work I do now in my full-time private practice.
![Photo of Melissa Simmons, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb5f78c7-159d-413d-91df-b18a1055ec2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Yakima, WA 98902
Waitlist for new clients
Finding Hope was created to provide a safe and comfortable setting for people to explore their grief and loss. For those seeking a path through grief and wanting to explore life after a loss and what that means for them. Providing therapeutic support, clinical experience, and a passion for helping others through their journey.
Finding Hope was created to provide a safe and comfortable setting for people to explore their grief and loss. For those seeking a path through grief and wanting to explore life after a loss and what that means for them. Providing therapeutic support, clinical experience, and a passion for helping others through their journey.
![Photo of Taylor Klein, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1871e112-7e3a-44d1-a25d-e75972180cd1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life has many hardships that impact our self-image and relationships with others. It is also very difficult to ask for help with our most personal struggles. I understand the courage it takes to engage in counseling and therefore strive to make every client feel comfortable, safe, empowered, and unashamed to share his or her vulnerabilities. I work to develop a strong therapeutic relationship with each client using genuine kindness, open-mindedness, respect, honesty, and humor.
Life has many hardships that impact our self-image and relationships with others. It is also very difficult to ask for help with our most personal struggles. I understand the courage it takes to engage in counseling and therefore strive to make every client feel comfortable, safe, empowered, and unashamed to share his or her vulnerabilities. I work to develop a strong therapeutic relationship with each client using genuine kindness, open-mindedness, respect, honesty, and humor.
![Photo of Rich Schillinger, MEd, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a09e799-a680-4c9d-b0af-0a2b836015fb/1/320x400.png)
Hello. If you've never sought counseling before or it has been a while, I know it can be a bit scary. I assure you that I am just like you who may also be working on oneself, marriage, parenting, family of origin, spirituality, and everything else we have to manage in life for our well-being. Give it a try, it is rare a person who goes to counseling and doesn't feel better for it. Please schedule at: headway.co/providers/richard-schillinger
Hello. If you've never sought counseling before or it has been a while, I know it can be a bit scary. I assure you that I am just like you who may also be working on oneself, marriage, parenting, family of origin, spirituality, and everything else we have to manage in life for our well-being. Give it a try, it is rare a person who goes to counseling and doesn't feel better for it. Please schedule at: headway.co/providers/richard-schillinger
![Photo of Maria Isabel Ramos, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfd367b7-50e4-4984-8209-8b80e32a64bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Isabel Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yakima, WA 98908
My approach is natural and friendly, grounded in the belief that life’s many challenges and transitions—though often unexpected—are opportunities for growth and empowerment.
My approach is natural and friendly, grounded in the belief that life’s many challenges and transitions—though often unexpected—are opportunities for growth and empowerment.
![Photo of Jeremy Pietsch, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc863b50-586d-4079-8424-5e3c399d05c0/2/320x400.jpeg)
***I provide Teletherapy to clients all over the state of Washington. Call or text (509) 388-1113 to schedule your appt.***
***I provide Teletherapy to clients all over the state of Washington. Call or text (509) 388-1113 to schedule your appt.***
![Photo of Dr. Scott A Whitmer Psyd, PsyD, LMHC, CFMHE, ABVE, IPEC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed7d261-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Scott A Whitmer Psyd
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, CFMHE, ABVE, IPEC
Verified Verified
Yakima, WA 98908
Dr. Whitmer treats individuals, couples, and families. His doctoral training in clinical psychology has prepared him to treat many mental health disorders with various interventions. Dr. Whitmer is board certified as a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator and a Forensic Vocational Expert. He is nationally certified as Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and is International Psychometric Evaluation Certified. Dr. Whitmer is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State.
Dr. Whitmer treats individuals, couples, and families. His doctoral training in clinical psychology has prepared him to treat many mental health disorders with various interventions. Dr. Whitmer is board certified as a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator and a Forensic Vocational Expert. He is nationally certified as Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and is International Psychometric Evaluation Certified. Dr. Whitmer is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State.
![Photo of Malissa D Durbin, MEd, LMHC, NCSP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/773156d4-31bd-434b-9926-c90d37a49d4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Malissa D Durbin
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yakima, WA 98902 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
There are many reasons to consider therapy as a right choice for you. There can be overwhelming feelings of anxiety and stress, deep emotional or physical pain, relationships that become a struggle, and a longing to be accepted and understood. I specialize in three life stages that can be incredibly challenging to navigate. The teen years, the transition to adulthood and the parenting years can all create immense stress and struggles. I would like to walk beside you and help you navigate those years in a way that brings you from surviving to thriving!
There are many reasons to consider therapy as a right choice for you. There can be overwhelming feelings of anxiety and stress, deep emotional or physical pain, relationships that become a struggle, and a longing to be accepted and understood. I specialize in three life stages that can be incredibly challenging to navigate. The teen years, the transition to adulthood and the parenting years can all create immense stress and struggles. I would like to walk beside you and help you navigate those years in a way that brings you from surviving to thriving!
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![Photo of Mark Edward Heeringa, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c4afad8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients! Having served in the Yakima Valley for over twenty five years, I am experienced working with people who are facing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, ODD and many other diagnoses. You will not feel like a "diagnosis" in my office however, as I will work with you to develop a customized plan to address your needs and goals. You will be treated with respect and dignity which will allow you the freedom to examine yourself and consider new ways of dealing with problematic patterns and behaviors. Life can be complicated and having the curiosity and courage to try new things is a rewarding way to live.
Now accepting new clients! Having served in the Yakima Valley for over twenty five years, I am experienced working with people who are facing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, ODD and many other diagnoses. You will not feel like a "diagnosis" in my office however, as I will work with you to develop a customized plan to address your needs and goals. You will be treated with respect and dignity which will allow you the freedom to examine yourself and consider new ways of dealing with problematic patterns and behaviors. Life can be complicated and having the curiosity and courage to try new things is a rewarding way to live.
![Photo of Jonathan Douglas, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/817fb350-16bc-49ec-b01c-4dd000b81d2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Douglas
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yakima, WA 98903 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am honored by your consideration. My name is Jonathan Douglas, I am passionate about helping individuals address life challenges that are oftentimes as a result of unresolved issues stemming from grief and loss, trauma, abuse, societal issues and artifacts from the individuals family of origin. I view seeking help and support as a strength. It is difficult to be vulnerable and explore the challenges that persist, however through that effort we can work to find peace. I aim to offer a unique perspective given my life experiences that I would hope you as a potential client can find of benefit.
I am honored by your consideration. My name is Jonathan Douglas, I am passionate about helping individuals address life challenges that are oftentimes as a result of unresolved issues stemming from grief and loss, trauma, abuse, societal issues and artifacts from the individuals family of origin. I view seeking help and support as a strength. It is difficult to be vulnerable and explore the challenges that persist, however through that effort we can work to find peace. I aim to offer a unique perspective given my life experiences that I would hope you as a potential client can find of benefit.
![Photo of Jeff Blair - Blair Counseling LLC, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5086d528-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone has problems. Pretending to be fine when you're not is exhausting. When you meet with me, you don't have to keep up any pretenses. You can take your mask off. We can get into what is really underneath your suffering. If you're like most human beings, there's probably a lot of fear and shame related to trauma and troubled relationships. Chances are you are struggling with an addiction of some form or another. The path to greater mental and emotional health can often feel like a steep mountain trail that never ends. It can help to have an experienced guide to help you along the way!
Everyone has problems. Pretending to be fine when you're not is exhausting. When you meet with me, you don't have to keep up any pretenses. You can take your mask off. We can get into what is really underneath your suffering. If you're like most human beings, there's probably a lot of fear and shame related to trauma and troubled relationships. Chances are you are struggling with an addiction of some form or another. The path to greater mental and emotional health can often feel like a steep mountain trail that never ends. It can help to have an experienced guide to help you along the way!
![Photo of Eli Brown - Eli Brown Counseling, MAAT, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b70a2db-5412-4401-b11e-f503866b1a5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily work with LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent people seeking assistance with healing from trauma. I believe you are the person in charge of your treatment and my role is to aid in providing space for you to share and explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Therapy needs to be a brave space as you are sharing yourself with another individual, as you may feel vulnerable, scared, or hesitant. If you are struggling to find your voice and advocate for yourself or feel disconnected from your body perhaps we can work together to create space and reconnect.
I primarily work with LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent people seeking assistance with healing from trauma. I believe you are the person in charge of your treatment and my role is to aid in providing space for you to share and explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Therapy needs to be a brave space as you are sharing yourself with another individual, as you may feel vulnerable, scared, or hesitant. If you are struggling to find your voice and advocate for yourself or feel disconnected from your body perhaps we can work together to create space and reconnect.
![Photo of Spenser Ash, MS, LMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/975b210d-db64-4bc5-86e4-4202853b37f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a counselor, I strive to create an atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable and safe to talk about the vulnerable areas of their lives. It is not easy to reach out for help, and I believe it is my job to provide a nonjudgmental setting for my clients’ growth. I love my work and I care for my clients with enthusiasm and even a little bit of humor.
As a counselor, I strive to create an atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable and safe to talk about the vulnerable areas of their lives. It is not easy to reach out for help, and I believe it is my job to provide a nonjudgmental setting for my clients’ growth. I love my work and I care for my clients with enthusiasm and even a little bit of humor.
![Photo of Todd Douglas Blair, LMHC, CCATP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/955d6985-e996-459f-b659-bb64abfa32de/2/320x400.png)
Facing emotional challenges can make you feel alone and lost. When people can’t physically see the wounds you carry you can wonder if you’re the only one, that you’re “just this way” and there’s nothing to be done, you’re broken. You have every right to feel what you’re feeling, your emotions, actions, thoughts, all of it makes perfect sense given what you’ve gone through AND change can happen. I want you to feel accepted while we push for change together. I don’t believe anyone is broken even when we feel that way sometimes, I believe we face challenges and challenges can be overcome.
Facing emotional challenges can make you feel alone and lost. When people can’t physically see the wounds you carry you can wonder if you’re the only one, that you’re “just this way” and there’s nothing to be done, you’re broken. You have every right to feel what you’re feeling, your emotions, actions, thoughts, all of it makes perfect sense given what you’ve gone through AND change can happen. I want you to feel accepted while we push for change together. I don’t believe anyone is broken even when we feel that way sometimes, I believe we face challenges and challenges can be overcome.
![Photo of Alta Darlene Woeck, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd76adb-7d61-4520-9e50-d6440c76e0cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to facilitate healing through working collaboratively with you as you explore your thoughts and feelings of both past and present that are causing you and others around you distress and blocking your expression of your authentic self. My passion is to help those who have suffered trauma heal. It is my intention to provide a safe non-judgemental place of healing, to work collaboratively for you to achieve self-driven functional goals.
My goal is to facilitate healing through working collaboratively with you as you explore your thoughts and feelings of both past and present that are causing you and others around you distress and blocking your expression of your authentic self. My passion is to help those who have suffered trauma heal. It is my intention to provide a safe non-judgemental place of healing, to work collaboratively for you to achieve self-driven functional goals.
![Photo of Suzanne Lynette Rodriguez, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d8596cf-3efd-4a96-ac10-e762617460a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Lynette Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Yakima, WA 98901
Waitlist for new clients
I have spent a majority of time in the primary care clinics conducting counseling in the Yakima Valley area since 2003. My focus is to encourage children, teen, adult, geriatric, Active duty Military and Veteran populations to work towards a healthier mind and body. Lets work towards a healthier you!
I have spent a majority of time in the primary care clinics conducting counseling in the Yakima Valley area since 2003. My focus is to encourage children, teen, adult, geriatric, Active duty Military and Veteran populations to work towards a healthier mind and body. Lets work towards a healthier you!
![Photo of Dustin J Jindra, MS, LMHC, CMHS, DCR, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/447ede86-7ef2-406c-a630-f8dee032df11/3/320x400.jpeg)
Experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or a reduction in concentration/focus?Perhaps communication breakdown? It's not a matter of "if", but "when" adversity will come to test your commitment to growth, and I am here to offer a skill-based action-oriented approach with measurable results (not your typical talk therapy). Ready for change- let's get started!
Experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or a reduction in concentration/focus?Perhaps communication breakdown? It's not a matter of "if", but "when" adversity will come to test your commitment to growth, and I am here to offer a skill-based action-oriented approach with measurable results (not your typical talk therapy). Ready for change- let's get started!
See more therapy options for Yakima County
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.