Photo of Evolve+Shift Therapy - Michelle Williams, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Evolve+Shift Therapy - Michelle Williams, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
I employ various techniques with a client-centred approach focused on strengths-based, attachment-informed practice, using relational, motivational interviewing and narrative styles.
I am aware of how social and structural systems affect our mood, capacity, self-esteem, and emotional and physical well-being. My approach is one of deep engagement and inclusion; I acknowledge differences in order to understand the complex challenges of navigating a world that can often be dehumanizing. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, workplace stress, intrusive thoughts, and grief. If you are a couple challenged with poor communication, lack of trust and co-dependency, I provide strategies to improve relational breakdown and increase relationship satisfaction.
I employ various techniques with a client-centred approach focused on strengths-based, attachment-informed practice, using relational, motivational interviewing and narrative styles.
I am aware of how social and structural systems affect our mood, capacity, self-esteem, and emotional and physical well-being. My approach is one of deep engagement and inclusion; I acknowledge differences in order to understand the complex challenges of navigating a world that can often be dehumanizing. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, workplace stress, intrusive thoughts, and grief. If you are a couple challenged with poor communication, lack of trust and co-dependency, I provide strategies to improve relational breakdown and increase relationship satisfaction.
(249) 505-4981 View (249) 505-4981
Photo of SOS Transformation Services Inc | Life Coaching , Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
SOS Transformation Services Inc | Life Coaching
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
You desire more from life, but have no idea how to achieve it. You want to grow into a better version of yourself, but the change you desire seems so gigantic, that you sometimes think it’s impossible. Your past, limiting beliefs about yourself, lack of tools, structures, motivation, maps and accountability are keeping you STUCK. You hate it, but have no idea how to get out of this rut of stagnation, and you sometimes feel like giving up. It's likely that you've even tried-several times-to change, but you keep ending up in the same place, only now, you're even more discouraged.
You desire more from life, but have no idea how to achieve it. You want to grow into a better version of yourself, but the change you desire seems so gigantic, that you sometimes think it’s impossible. Your past, limiting beliefs about yourself, lack of tools, structures, motivation, maps and accountability are keeping you STUCK. You hate it, but have no idea how to get out of this rut of stagnation, and you sometimes feel like giving up. It's likely that you've even tried-several times-to change, but you keep ending up in the same place, only now, you're even more discouraged.
(249) 209-6241 View (249) 209-6241
Photo of Oluwaseun Ajilore, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Barrie, ON
Oluwaseun Ajilore
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
As a trauma-informed psychotherapist and rehabilitation therapist, I understand the impact that stress, anxiety, grief and loss can have on individuals and families. These impacts run deep and can often affect our mind, body, and spirit including our relationships and self-esteem. I have worked with children, teenagers, adults, couples and families and I believe that every individual has the capacity to heal, grow and develop resiliency. I prioritize the strength of our therapeutic alliance and collaborate from a socially and culturally sensitive lens.
As a trauma-informed psychotherapist and rehabilitation therapist, I understand the impact that stress, anxiety, grief and loss can have on individuals and families. These impacts run deep and can often affect our mind, body, and spirit including our relationships and self-esteem. I have worked with children, teenagers, adults, couples and families and I believe that every individual has the capacity to heal, grow and develop resiliency. I prioritize the strength of our therapeutic alliance and collaborate from a socially and culturally sensitive lens.
(289) 277-5076 View (289) 277-5076
Photo of Collective Care Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Collective Care Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Are you navigating questions about your sexual orientation or gender identity? Are your experiencing relationship distress? Are you healing from the loss of a loved one? At Collective Care Counselling, we specialize in the following areas: trauma, grief and loss, spirituality, gender identity, transitioning, LGBTQIA2s+, perinatal mental health, OCD, BDD, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism, etc.), concussions, and many other topics. All of our therapists work from a trauma-informed, strengths-based, anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
Are you navigating questions about your sexual orientation or gender identity? Are your experiencing relationship distress? Are you healing from the loss of a loved one? At Collective Care Counselling, we specialize in the following areas: trauma, grief and loss, spirituality, gender identity, transitioning, LGBTQIA2s+, perinatal mental health, OCD, BDD, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism, etc.), concussions, and many other topics. All of our therapists work from a trauma-informed, strengths-based, anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
(705) 896-6936 View (705) 896-6936
Photo of New Beginnings Barrie, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
New Beginnings Barrie
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MIT, BSc(H)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Are you anxious? Do you feel stuck? Perhaps you can’t find the right words for what’s going on in your marriage right now? Are you stressed or depressed about life in general? Then it may be time for you to chat with someone like me. Life is hectic every day, but when you have someone who is ready to walk the journey with you, life becomes more enjoyable. My name is Ibukun Ogunsina, and I’d love to give you my shoulders to lean on. I have walked some miles in other people’s shoes. I have also worked with diverse populations and in many settings.
Are you anxious? Do you feel stuck? Perhaps you can’t find the right words for what’s going on in your marriage right now? Are you stressed or depressed about life in general? Then it may be time for you to chat with someone like me. Life is hectic every day, but when you have someone who is ready to walk the journey with you, life becomes more enjoyable. My name is Ibukun Ogunsina, and I’d love to give you my shoulders to lean on. I have walked some miles in other people’s shoes. I have also worked with diverse populations and in many settings.
(249) 490-4528 View (249) 490-4528
Photo of Henry Obanor, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Henry Obanor
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I provide a judgement free space and therapeutic counselling. I have worked extensively with youths, adults, couples and families in various capacities. With over 11 years of social work and counselling experience, I am knowledgeable and equipped to provide you with safe, confidential and effective counselling. I will work collaboratively with you as you gain the knowledge and skills you need to address your concerns and achieve your goals.
I provide a judgement free space and therapeutic counselling. I have worked extensively with youths, adults, couples and families in various capacities. With over 11 years of social work and counselling experience, I am knowledgeable and equipped to provide you with safe, confidential and effective counselling. I will work collaboratively with you as you gain the knowledge and skills you need to address your concerns and achieve your goals.
(705) 702-4579 View (705) 702-4579
Photo of Trisha Obanor, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Trisha Obanor
Registered Social Worker, BScN, MSW, RSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Finding the right support for life challenges can be stressful and discouraging. I provide a non-judgemental and safe space in which you and I can work together towards your desired outcomes. With over 14 years of nursing experience and my social work background, I am in a unique position of being able to provide a truly holistic approach to therapy. I foster a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship to address concerns that are specific to each client. My approach focuses on developing life skills, building strengths and positive coping skills.
Finding the right support for life challenges can be stressful and discouraging. I provide a non-judgemental and safe space in which you and I can work together towards your desired outcomes. With over 14 years of nursing experience and my social work background, I am in a unique position of being able to provide a truly holistic approach to therapy. I foster a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship to address concerns that are specific to each client. My approach focuses on developing life skills, building strengths and positive coping skills.
(249) 505-0496 View (249) 505-0496
Photo of 3 Chords Counselling and Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
3 Chords Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or grief that is affecting your sleep, energy levels, and relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or frustrated? Is it hard to make it through the day? Our team is ready to help you become the version of yourself that you have always wanted to be. We think finding the right therapist is extremely important which is why we have a large team that supports a diverse range of mental health challenges. Reach out to us today to find the right therapist for you!
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or grief that is affecting your sleep, energy levels, and relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or frustrated? Is it hard to make it through the day? Our team is ready to help you become the version of yourself that you have always wanted to be. We think finding the right therapist is extremely important which is why we have a large team that supports a diverse range of mental health challenges. Reach out to us today to find the right therapist for you!
(437) 747-6561 View (437) 747-6561
Photo of Counselling, Coaching, Consulting by Milicia , Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Counselling, Coaching, Consulting by Milicia
Registered Social Worker, Bsc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Are you feeling like you have lost control of your life or what’s important to you? Does any of the following describe what you are experiencing - feeling stuck, hurt, lost, broken, betrayed, hopeless, helpless, confused, stressed, anxious, afraid, exhausted or worthless? Are you grappling with shame and regret? It doesn’t have to end this way. I have been there, and I can help you rewrite your story and pull things back together. My goal is to partner with you in achieving your goals and resolutions. I acknowledge that you know your story best and I will collaborate with you to discover your unique strengths and resources.
Are you feeling like you have lost control of your life or what’s important to you? Does any of the following describe what you are experiencing - feeling stuck, hurt, lost, broken, betrayed, hopeless, helpless, confused, stressed, anxious, afraid, exhausted or worthless? Are you grappling with shame and regret? It doesn’t have to end this way. I have been there, and I can help you rewrite your story and pull things back together. My goal is to partner with you in achieving your goals and resolutions. I acknowledge that you know your story best and I will collaborate with you to discover your unique strengths and resources.
(249) 490-5681 View (249) 490-5681
Photo of Sharon Obiye, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Sharon Obiye
Registered Social Worker, Bsc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N  (Online Only)
Life is filed with some ups and downs, we pride ourselves in navigating different challenges we face but there are moment when we need a shoulder to lean on. Yiléa therapy services can be that shoulder not only to lean on but to offer assistance in navigating day to day challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling with combative or fearful thoughts? Are you anxious about day to day life decisions? Are you struggling with balancing societal expectations, personal needs and family expectations? Are you feeling unmotivated to do things you used to love? Are you struggling with your relationship with your partner?
Life is filed with some ups and downs, we pride ourselves in navigating different challenges we face but there are moment when we need a shoulder to lean on. Yiléa therapy services can be that shoulder not only to lean on but to offer assistance in navigating day to day challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling with combative or fearful thoughts? Are you anxious about day to day life decisions? Are you struggling with balancing societal expectations, personal needs and family expectations? Are you feeling unmotivated to do things you used to love? Are you struggling with your relationship with your partner?
(289) 513-3653 View (289) 513-3653
Photo of Rosemary Muzorewa, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Rosemary Muzorewa
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed and/or depressed? Have you experienced a traumatic event that left you feeling alone, terrified and powerless? Maybe you are struggling with loss of a loved one, life changes, a break up or relationship problems that have stolen your joy and inner peace and affected your sleep and daily activities.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed and/or depressed? Have you experienced a traumatic event that left you feeling alone, terrified and powerless? Maybe you are struggling with loss of a loved one, life changes, a break up or relationship problems that have stolen your joy and inner peace and affected your sleep and daily activities.
(249) 201-8644 View (249) 201-8644
Photo of Olayinka Madamidola, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Olayinka Madamidola
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, AFM
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I provide professional counselling support to families, couples, individuals, and children seeking help to deal with the realities of life in the moment. Issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, stress management and relationship issues can be overwhelming. You don't have to be alone when these issues arise. With over 20 years of experience, I will work collaboratively with you to move you in the direction of hope and peace of mind.
I provide professional counselling support to families, couples, individuals, and children seeking help to deal with the realities of life in the moment. Issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, stress management and relationship issues can be overwhelming. You don't have to be alone when these issues arise. With over 20 years of experience, I will work collaboratively with you to move you in the direction of hope and peace of mind.
(289) 807-0041 View (289) 807-0041

Online Therapists

Photo of Gifty Dem, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Gifty Dem
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3P
There is no one-size-fits-all approach; instead, I employ a flexible and inclusive therapeutic approach that incorporates techniques from Solution-Focused, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Let's face it: managing your mental health is difficult, and supporting a loved one is even more complicated. As an immigrant, I have witnessed firsthand the trauma, uncertainty, and shame that comes with asking for help from others, especially if you receive neither acknowledgement nor acceptance. I understand how challenging it can be not to know where to turn, let alone who to turn to. It takes strength to be resilient and courageous enough to seek assistance. I'm here to assist and guide you as you go on this self-discovery adventure
There is no one-size-fits-all approach; instead, I employ a flexible and inclusive therapeutic approach that incorporates techniques from Solution-Focused, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Let's face it: managing your mental health is difficult, and supporting a loved one is even more complicated. As an immigrant, I have witnessed firsthand the trauma, uncertainty, and shame that comes with asking for help from others, especially if you receive neither acknowledgement nor acceptance. I understand how challenging it can be not to know where to turn, let alone who to turn to. It takes strength to be resilient and courageous enough to seek assistance. I'm here to assist and guide you as you go on this self-discovery adventure
(289) 512-2915 View (289) 512-2915
Photo of Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw., Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw.
Registered Social Worker, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6W
Specialized in evidence-based therapies, including CBT, CPT, DBT, TDP, Motivational Interviewing, Integrative Eclectic Therapy, Humanistic Experiential Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Supportive Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Visual Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Grounding Techniques and more.
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
Specialized in evidence-based therapies, including CBT, CPT, DBT, TDP, Motivational Interviewing, Integrative Eclectic Therapy, Humanistic Experiential Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Supportive Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Visual Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Grounding Techniques and more.
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
(844) 382-8975 View (844) 382-8975
Photo of Marilyn Awoyomi, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Marilyn Awoyomi
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4M
Are you struggling with low mood or addiction? Are you experiencing burnout and feeling anxious or stressed by your workload? Perhaps you are in the midst of a big transition like becoming a parent, going back to work or going through a separation/divorce? Are you concerned about a family member's addiction? I am here to help and will draw from my skill set in CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Family Systems Therapy to help you process your emotions, manage your stress and make positive changes in your life. I work from an inclusive, harm reduction approach to help you set goals and gain the skills needed to live a healthier life.
Are you struggling with low mood or addiction? Are you experiencing burnout and feeling anxious or stressed by your workload? Perhaps you are in the midst of a big transition like becoming a parent, going back to work or going through a separation/divorce? Are you concerned about a family member's addiction? I am here to help and will draw from my skill set in CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Family Systems Therapy to help you process your emotions, manage your stress and make positive changes in your life. I work from an inclusive, harm reduction approach to help you set goals and gain the skills needed to live a healthier life.
(647) 277-4821 View (647) 277-4821
Photo of Aisha Wovenu, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Aisha Wovenu
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4C
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*You are ready to make a change and are in search of the right therapist to support you in your journey. The right therapist and the right approach are important elements in the success of your support and achieving your goals. My name is Aisha and I am a dedicated, caring and compassionate registered Social Worker. My approach is genuine, client-centred and strengths-based. I utilize modalities such as solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy and motivational interviewing.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*You are ready to make a change and are in search of the right therapist to support you in your journey. The right therapist and the right approach are important elements in the success of your support and achieving your goals. My name is Aisha and I am a dedicated, caring and compassionate registered Social Worker. My approach is genuine, client-centred and strengths-based. I utilize modalities such as solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy and motivational interviewing.
(289) 210-7345 View (289) 210-7345
Photo of Fola Kortee, Pre-Licensed Professional in Barrie, ON
Fola Kortee
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
I bridge traditional and western modalities while employing therapeutic approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
I hold a BA with Honours in Kinesiology and Health Sciences from York University and I am currently completing the last year of my Master's in Social Work specializing in Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency at the University of Toronto. I work primarily with clients who identify as Indigenous and/or Black, in areas of anxiety, self-esteem, and intergenerational trauma. I am dedicated to fostering community wellness and empowering individuals on their healing journeys.
I bridge traditional and western modalities while employing therapeutic approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
I hold a BA with Honours in Kinesiology and Health Sciences from York University and I am currently completing the last year of my Master's in Social Work specializing in Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency at the University of Toronto. I work primarily with clients who identify as Indigenous and/or Black, in areas of anxiety, self-esteem, and intergenerational trauma. I am dedicated to fostering community wellness and empowering individuals on their healing journeys.
(647) 558-9956 View (647) 558-9956
Photo of Angela Karuhanga, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Angela Karuhanga
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K  (Online Only)
Hi There! My name is Angela, I am a Black Canadian therapist of Ugandan/British heritage. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress or low self-esteem? My practice will soon be open to individuals for virtual sessions. With a decade of experience, I have worked with children, youth, and families across various settings. My training in Applied Behavior Analysis allows me to observe patterns of behavior that impact a person's ability to develop meaningful relationships. In addition, I draw from several modalities including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Hi There! My name is Angela, I am a Black Canadian therapist of Ugandan/British heritage. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress or low self-esteem? My practice will soon be open to individuals for virtual sessions. With a decade of experience, I have worked with children, youth, and families across various settings. My training in Applied Behavior Analysis allows me to observe patterns of behavior that impact a person's ability to develop meaningful relationships. In addition, I draw from several modalities including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(647) 370-2401 View (647) 370-2401
Photo of Aivy Consult and Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Aivy Consult and Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BA Hons, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9H
I use a variety of treatment approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma counselling, and motivational interviewing.
Currently, we are living in a world that is at best tense, and finding our peace is a daily struggle. In our lives, we are encouraged to, told, and at times, forced to continue as if nothing is happening or seriously wrong. In my practice, I provide space for open dialogue and a holistic approach to therapy which encourages recovery and healing. In my over 17 years of working as a clinical social worker with youths and adults ranging from diverse & intersectional backgrounds, I have learned that the space we create together in combination with the relational work is the most important.
I use a variety of treatment approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma counselling, and motivational interviewing.
Currently, we are living in a world that is at best tense, and finding our peace is a daily struggle. In our lives, we are encouraged to, told, and at times, forced to continue as if nothing is happening or seriously wrong. In my practice, I provide space for open dialogue and a holistic approach to therapy which encourages recovery and healing. In my over 17 years of working as a clinical social worker with youths and adults ranging from diverse & intersectional backgrounds, I have learned that the space we create together in combination with the relational work is the most important.
(289) 216-4814 View (289) 216-4814
Photo of Keith Adamson, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Keith Adamson
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I draw from emotion-focused therapy (EFT), psychodynamic, cognitive behaviour therapy, solution-focused and motivational interviewing approaches.
My specialty focuses on queer issues, anxiety, depression, post-trauma symptoms, work-related stress, and post-separation parental counselling. I care about what you want to accomplish in your life. My primary commitment is to help you achieve your life goals and become the best version of yourself. I am willing to start wherever you are at and work with you to make practical changes that will lead to a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, I aim to empower you, at whatever age or stage of life you are, to actively participate in your own growth and fulfillment.
I draw from emotion-focused therapy (EFT), psychodynamic, cognitive behaviour therapy, solution-focused and motivational interviewing approaches.
My specialty focuses on queer issues, anxiety, depression, post-trauma symptoms, work-related stress, and post-separation parental counselling. I care about what you want to accomplish in your life. My primary commitment is to help you achieve your life goals and become the best version of yourself. I am willing to start wherever you are at and work with you to make practical changes that will lead to a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, I aim to empower you, at whatever age or stage of life you are, to actively participate in your own growth and fulfillment.
(437) 747-7711 View (437) 747-7711

See more therapy options for Barrie

Motivational Interviewing Counsellors

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, empathises, 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 behaviours 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 behaviour.