Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Carmen Klenner, MSEd, LPC, CSAC, Counselor
Carmen Klenner
Counselor, MSEd, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53224
My goal is to meet all clients where they are at on their journeys. Through the use of a combination of Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness, my clients have found peace and success in moving forward through difficult life situations. Each client has a unique story; I am determined to discover the story and assist the client in exploring the possibilities of a well balanced life. In providing a safe place to explore the feelings of disappointment, grief, anxiety, depression, and addiction, current and former clients have discovered these temporary vices prevent the client from moving forward.
My goal is to meet all clients where they are at on their journeys. Through the use of a combination of Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness, my clients have found peace and success in moving forward through difficult life situations. Each client has a unique story; I am determined to discover the story and assist the client in exploring the possibilities of a well balanced life. In providing a safe place to explore the feelings of disappointment, grief, anxiety, depression, and addiction, current and former clients have discovered these temporary vices prevent the client from moving forward.
(262) 709-2033 View (262) 709-2033
Photo of Dr. Debbie Contreras-Tadych, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Debbie Contreras-Tadych
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53207  (Online Only)
I enjoy working to celebrate the individualism and uniqueness of each client. I have a special interest in diversity and am passionate about supporting clients who may be struggling with challenges related to immigration status, sexual orientation/gender identity, racial and cultural identity, etc. My treatment approach uses characteristics of trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and behavioral activation.
I enjoy working to celebrate the individualism and uniqueness of each client. I have a special interest in diversity and am passionate about supporting clients who may be struggling with challenges related to immigration status, sexual orientation/gender identity, racial and cultural identity, etc. My treatment approach uses characteristics of trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and behavioral activation.
(414) 626-7899 View (414) 626-7899
Photo of Tara Thiele, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Thiele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
My name is Tara Thiele, LPC. I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and other life concerns. I typically utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach but tailor my approach to each individual patient. I generally utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. I also utilize mindfulness techniques, person-centered, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques and approaches.
My name is Tara Thiele, LPC. I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and other life concerns. I typically utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach but tailor my approach to each individual patient. I generally utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. I also utilize mindfulness techniques, person-centered, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques and approaches.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Bonnie Leggo | Somatic Experiencing, LCSW, CSAC, SEP, RYT, TIY, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bonnie Leggo | Somatic Experiencing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, SEP, RYT, TIY
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53205
Motivational interviewing focuses on gaining power in your known (and even unknown) inherent strengths.
What are you missing that you want to reclaim? Working holistically through EMDR, somatic experiencing & motivational interviewing, we can find a gentler, more effective means to healing. Therapy is a unique opportunity to be vulnerable and learn to experience a healthy relationship, with a foundation of trust and compassion. A diagnosis is not necessary, in my professional opinion, to work through the issues "in the tissues". Confidentiality offers you peace of mind and sets a foundation of trust between us. Our work together is about freeing the weight of the past & future anxieties, so you can enjoy your life more.
Motivational interviewing focuses on gaining power in your known (and even unknown) inherent strengths.
What are you missing that you want to reclaim? Working holistically through EMDR, somatic experiencing & motivational interviewing, we can find a gentler, more effective means to healing. Therapy is a unique opportunity to be vulnerable and learn to experience a healthy relationship, with a foundation of trust and compassion. A diagnosis is not necessary, in my professional opinion, to work through the issues "in the tissues". Confidentiality offers you peace of mind and sets a foundation of trust between us. Our work together is about freeing the weight of the past & future anxieties, so you can enjoy your life more.
(608) 684-6147 View (608) 684-6147
Jessica Key
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
The most common therapeutic techniques I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, trauma-informed care, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am Jessica Key, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin. My approach to therapy is client-centered and compassionate, with a focus on creating a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe in tailoring my therapeutic methods to meet your unique needs, using a range of evidence-based practices to help you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression, but I also provide support for a variety of other mental health concerns.
The most common therapeutic techniques I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, trauma-informed care, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am Jessica Key, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin. My approach to therapy is client-centered and compassionate, with a focus on creating a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe in tailoring my therapeutic methods to meet your unique needs, using a range of evidence-based practices to help you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression, but I also provide support for a variety of other mental health concerns.
(414) 710-8125 View (414) 710-8125
Photo of Arianna Mansavage, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Arianna Mansavage
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy from a Person-Centered lens, utilizing humorous techniques, and drawing from evidence-based interventions including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Welcome! My name is Arianna and as a former Division I Athlete and Licensed Professional Counselor; I specialize in depression, anxiety, and stress management. The majority of my practice focuses on helping high achieving people through tough life decisions, difficulties in transitions, performance anxiety, relationship struggles, or other concerns you may have. I care deeply for the people I work with and together we will facilitate a safe space to discuss topics impacting your life.
I provide therapy from a Person-Centered lens, utilizing humorous techniques, and drawing from evidence-based interventions including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Welcome! My name is Arianna and as a former Division I Athlete and Licensed Professional Counselor; I specialize in depression, anxiety, and stress management. The majority of my practice focuses on helping high achieving people through tough life decisions, difficulties in transitions, performance anxiety, relationship struggles, or other concerns you may have. I care deeply for the people I work with and together we will facilitate a safe space to discuss topics impacting your life.
(414) 441-6150 View (414) 441-6150
Photo of Priscilla Haynes - Olive Branch Therapy and Family Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olive Branch Therapy and Family Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Our approach combines EMDR, cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution-focused, motivational interviewing and person-centered therapy.
Sometimes life can get chaotic and you don't know which direction to go or who to turn to. Whether you are dealing with family issues, parenting challenges, career transitions, or everyday anxiety, Olive Branch Therapy and Family Services LLC is here to help. An olive branch represents peace, and if you are ready to find peace in your life, we are here to help.
Our approach combines EMDR, cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution-focused, motivational interviewing and person-centered therapy.
Sometimes life can get chaotic and you don't know which direction to go or who to turn to. Whether you are dealing with family issues, parenting challenges, career transitions, or everyday anxiety, Olive Branch Therapy and Family Services LLC is here to help. An olive branch represents peace, and if you are ready to find peace in your life, we are here to help.
(414) 626-0404 x53207 View (414) 626-0404 x53207
Photo of Jesse J Jonesberg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse J Jonesberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53208  (Online Only)
I am a certified brainspotting therapist, certified mindful self-compassion therapist, and motivational interviewing practitioner.
Looking for a new approach to therapy that fits with your life, culture, and worldview? I specialize in using Brainspotting and other compassion-based therapies to help you with trauma, depression, and anxiety. You can get better and heal, even if traditional talk therapies have not helped. I help you connect with your authentic sense of self and processes difficult experiences that you can heal and feel well again.
I am a certified brainspotting therapist, certified mindful self-compassion therapist, and motivational interviewing practitioner.
Looking for a new approach to therapy that fits with your life, culture, and worldview? I specialize in using Brainspotting and other compassion-based therapies to help you with trauma, depression, and anxiety. You can get better and heal, even if traditional talk therapies have not helped. I help you connect with your authentic sense of self and processes difficult experiences that you can heal and feel well again.
(414) 409-9736 View (414) 409-9736
Photo of Sydney A Snyder, MS, LPC, SAC-IT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney A Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I use a combination of techniques to support these goals (CBT, DBT, ERP, mindfulness, strength-based, mindfulness and motivational interviewing).
Are you struggling with adjusting to change, coping with stress or navigating conflict? As a result, has this left you feeling overwhelmed or anxious? Has shame, guilt or negative self-talk been impacting you? Do you need help creating boundaries with your partner, family, or friends? As a therapist, I believe in the saying, “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” My role is to help you explore areas of concern, develop coping skills, and gain insight about yourself. A primary focus of my practice is teaching self-compassion to help fill up your cup when life is feeling too difficult to navigate on your own.
I use a combination of techniques to support these goals (CBT, DBT, ERP, mindfulness, strength-based, mindfulness and motivational interviewing).
Are you struggling with adjusting to change, coping with stress or navigating conflict? As a result, has this left you feeling overwhelmed or anxious? Has shame, guilt or negative self-talk been impacting you? Do you need help creating boundaries with your partner, family, or friends? As a therapist, I believe in the saying, “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” My role is to help you explore areas of concern, develop coping skills, and gain insight about yourself. A primary focus of my practice is teaching self-compassion to help fill up your cup when life is feeling too difficult to navigate on your own.
(414) 246-4907 View (414) 246-4907
Photo of Tara Thiele, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Thiele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211  (Online Only)
My name is Tara Thiele, LPC. I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and other life concerns. I typically utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach but tailor my approach to each individual patient. I generally utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. I also utilize mindfulness techniques, person-centered, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques and approaches.
My name is Tara Thiele, LPC. I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and other life concerns. I typically utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach but tailor my approach to each individual patient. I generally utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. I also utilize mindfulness techniques, person-centered, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques and approaches.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Dr. Vicki L Cox-Clayborn - C & C Therapy LLC, PhD, MEd, MFT-IT, Marriage & Family Therapist
C & C Therapy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, MFT-IT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53222  (Online Only)
I use SFBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Gottman Level 1 certified, and strength-based strategies to guide you.
Relationships are challenging, and need work. Let's start today. I provide a various therapy models one that will fit your needs. I'm an email away to support you.
I use SFBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Gottman Level 1 certified, and strength-based strategies to guide you.
Relationships are challenging, and need work. Let's start today. I provide a various therapy models one that will fit your needs. I'm an email away to support you.
(414) 420-1489 View (414) 420-1489
Photo of Tara Thiele, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Thiele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53226  (Online Only)
My name is Tara Thiele, LPC. I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and other life concerns. I typically utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach but tailor my approach to each individual patient. I generally utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. I also utilize mindfulness techniques, person-centered, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques and approaches.
My name is Tara Thiele, LPC. I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and other life concerns. I typically utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach but tailor my approach to each individual patient. I generally utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. I also utilize mindfulness techniques, person-centered, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques and approaches.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Carly Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211
Your journey towards healing and self-discovery begins today! Carly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with her Substance Abuse Counseling in training license. Carly has eight years of direct clinical experience and specializes in working with adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health concerns, trauma, anxiety and depression disorders and individuals facing adversity. Carly uses a variety of techniques including Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Motivational Interviewing and Internal Family Systems.
Your journey towards healing and self-discovery begins today! Carly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with her Substance Abuse Counseling in training license. Carly has eight years of direct clinical experience and specializes in working with adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health concerns, trauma, anxiety and depression disorders and individuals facing adversity. Carly uses a variety of techniques including Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Motivational Interviewing and Internal Family Systems.
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Photo of Anna Evans, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
I have had extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, grief work, and substance treatment.
I help clients cope with chronic insomnia, nightmares, narcolepsy, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, substance use, trauma, caregiver stress, and living with disabilities. I have experience with and strongly value work with first responders and other health care providers. The quickest way for us to connect is by phone for a free, 15 minute consultation. I can usually meet with you within one week. If you prefer to email me before scheduling a consult, please be sure to check your spam box for my response :-)
I have had extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, grief work, and substance treatment.
I help clients cope with chronic insomnia, nightmares, narcolepsy, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, substance use, trauma, caregiver stress, and living with disabilities. I have experience with and strongly value work with first responders and other health care providers. The quickest way for us to connect is by phone for a free, 15 minute consultation. I can usually meet with you within one week. If you prefer to email me before scheduling a consult, please be sure to check your spam box for my response :-)
(262) 333-5870 View (262) 333-5870
Photo of Hazel Woody, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hazel Woody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Hazel Woody. I have my LCSW in the state of Wisconsin. I always take a client-centered approach, which focuses on meeting the client where they’re at. Two of the main theoretical frameworks I utilize are CBT and motivational interviewing. The majority of my clients in recent years have been children ages 9-17. I also work with adults. I commonly treat individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and PTSD. I like to create a very comfortable, laid-back environment. I let my clients lead the conversations and build rapport before jumping into treatment.
Hi! My name is Hazel Woody. I have my LCSW in the state of Wisconsin. I always take a client-centered approach, which focuses on meeting the client where they’re at. Two of the main theoretical frameworks I utilize are CBT and motivational interviewing. The majority of my clients in recent years have been children ages 9-17. I also work with adults. I commonly treat individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and PTSD. I like to create a very comfortable, laid-back environment. I let my clients lead the conversations and build rapport before jumping into treatment.
(414) 897-9964 View (414) 897-9964
Photo of Layla Wirtz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Layla Wirtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53210  (Online Only)
I utilize modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Brief Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. In my practice, I support adults of all ages as they navigate life’s challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, and more. I am also passionate about working with caregivers—whether you're caring for young children or aging parents—helping you find balance amidst the demands of daily life and processing complex emotions. My approach integrates mindfulness and self-awareness, fostering a sense of safety and comfort in both your body and mind. Together, we’ll explore ways to cultivate inner peace, manage competing stressors, and enhance your insight.
I utilize modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Brief Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. In my practice, I support adults of all ages as they navigate life’s challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, and more. I am also passionate about working with caregivers—whether you're caring for young children or aging parents—helping you find balance amidst the demands of daily life and processing complex emotions. My approach integrates mindfulness and self-awareness, fostering a sense of safety and comfort in both your body and mind. Together, we’ll explore ways to cultivate inner peace, manage competing stressors, and enhance your insight.
(414) 251-1677 View (414) 251-1677
Photo of Mehwish Aqueel, NCC, LPC, MSc, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mehwish Aqueel
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53221
I specialize in CBT, Motivational Interviewing & Trauma Informed Care.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” (Tao Te Ching) I am a National Board Certified Counselor specialized in Evidence Based Treatment. My treatment philosophy is to help Adolescents, Adults and families manage stressful life situations, relational stressors, embrace change, acceptance and meet challenging goals.
I specialize in CBT, Motivational Interviewing & Trauma Informed Care.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” (Tao Te Ching) I am a National Board Certified Counselor specialized in Evidence Based Treatment. My treatment philosophy is to help Adolescents, Adults and families manage stressful life situations, relational stressors, embrace change, acceptance and meet challenging goals.
(414) 246-5601 View (414) 246-5601
Jessica Key
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53209  (Online Only)
The most common therapeutic techniques I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, trauma-informed care, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am Jessica Key, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin. My approach to therapy is client-centered and compassionate, with a focus on creating a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe in tailoring my therapeutic methods to meet your unique needs, using a range of evidence-based practices to help you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression, but I also provide support for a variety of other mental health concerns.
The most common therapeutic techniques I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, trauma-informed care, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am Jessica Key, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin. My approach to therapy is client-centered and compassionate, with a focus on creating a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe in tailoring my therapeutic methods to meet your unique needs, using a range of evidence-based practices to help you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression, but I also provide support for a variety of other mental health concerns.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Brandon Nite, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Nite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53209  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of brainspotting, EMDR, motivational interviewing, DBT, and CBT.
My name is Brandon Nite and I am an LCSW therapist out of Wausau, WI. I love integrating the mind and body within therapeutic practice. I tend to shy away from the "talk therapy" approach to best serve my clients in overcoming trauma symptoms. My vision is to help my clients realize they have everything they need to heal, progress, and thrive.
I utilize a combination of brainspotting, EMDR, motivational interviewing, DBT, and CBT.
My name is Brandon Nite and I am an LCSW therapist out of Wausau, WI. I love integrating the mind and body within therapeutic practice. I tend to shy away from the "talk therapy" approach to best serve my clients in overcoming trauma symptoms. My vision is to help my clients realize they have everything they need to heal, progress, and thrive.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Sara Grossbier, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Grossbier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Sara Grossbier is a Licensed Professional Counselor who cares for adults that are looking to gain relief from anxiety disorders, ADHD, anger, depression, mood disorders, substance dependence, trauma and LGBTQIA+ related issues. She utilizes cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing to assist clients in understanding their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions while teaching new skills so clients can be empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives
Sara Grossbier is a Licensed Professional Counselor who cares for adults that are looking to gain relief from anxiety disorders, ADHD, anger, depression, mood disorders, substance dependence, trauma and LGBTQIA+ related issues. She utilizes cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing to assist clients in understanding their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions while teaching new skills so clients can be empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives
(262) 588-3418 View (262) 588-3418
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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.