Motivational Interviewing Therapists in London, ON

Photo of Scott L E Fredin, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Scott L E Fredin
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6P
I work using: CBT, CPT, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, MBCT, and a solution-focused approach.
Sometimes we need someone to listen us in order to gain insight and understanding, then we can come up with a plan to help manage or address what we are going through - whether it's a difficult life transition, a loss, or stressful life event(s). My approach to counselling is to create a collaborative process to support individuals with their mental health recovery. I work from a strengths-based perspective in order to assist people as they overcome adversity and life challenges.
I work using: CBT, CPT, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, MBCT, and a solution-focused approach.
Sometimes we need someone to listen us in order to gain insight and understanding, then we can come up with a plan to help manage or address what we are going through - whether it's a difficult life transition, a loss, or stressful life event(s). My approach to counselling is to create a collaborative process to support individuals with their mental health recovery. I work from a strengths-based perspective in order to assist people as they overcome adversity and life challenges.
(226) 401-5424 View (226) 401-5424
Photo of Paula Watts, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Paula Watts
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6P
I offer therapy in the following areas for individuals: strength based, CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed, EMDR, psychodynamic and emotion-focused for couples.
Bring yourself and I will bring the space for you to unload the weight of your worries. Lonely, sad, anxious about the future or struggling with decisions? We can work through transitions in your life to create stronger connections. It’s not easy to have the relationship you truly want; to feel heard and understood. At times, you’re spinning your wheels and not moving forward. Let me help you in getting unstuck from this negative cycle. Let’s navigate the road together and together, we can transform your emotions to building a more meaning-FULL life.
I offer therapy in the following areas for individuals: strength based, CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed, EMDR, psychodynamic and emotion-focused for couples.
Bring yourself and I will bring the space for you to unload the weight of your worries. Lonely, sad, anxious about the future or struggling with decisions? We can work through transitions in your life to create stronger connections. It’s not easy to have the relationship you truly want; to feel heard and understood. At times, you’re spinning your wheels and not moving forward. Let me help you in getting unstuck from this negative cycle. Let’s navigate the road together and together, we can transform your emotions to building a more meaning-FULL life.
(226) 782-7463 View (226) 782-7463
Photo of Alfredo Marroquín Psychotherapy and Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in London, ON
Alfredo Marroquín Psychotherapy and Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, OTC, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
London, ON N5W  (Online Only)
Trained in Grief, Hospice and Palliative Care, Trauma Informed, Narrative Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, New Ways for Families approach and Motivational Interviewing.
As a Registered Psychotherapist with 24 years of clinical experience, significant personal lived experience and extensive professional training, I am committed to serve youth, adults, couples, and seniors. Whether you are experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intergenerational conflicts, stress, abuse, trauma, burnout, or PTSD, you will find support in my person-centred, culturally appropriate, trauma-informed, strengths-based and anti-oppressive framework to establish the therapeutic safe space to create empowering opportunities.
Trained in Grief, Hospice and Palliative Care, Trauma Informed, Narrative Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, New Ways for Families approach and Motivational Interviewing.
As a Registered Psychotherapist with 24 years of clinical experience, significant personal lived experience and extensive professional training, I am committed to serve youth, adults, couples, and seniors. Whether you are experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intergenerational conflicts, stress, abuse, trauma, burnout, or PTSD, you will find support in my person-centred, culturally appropriate, trauma-informed, strengths-based and anti-oppressive framework to establish the therapeutic safe space to create empowering opportunities.
(226) 907-4028 View (226) 907-4028
Photo of Charles Skeete, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Charles Skeete
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MTS , BCC, NPSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
I practice brief solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, trauma-informed therapy and I am oriented to IFS.
At Alpha Optimal Living Inc. we support real people with real needs. Life as we know it can be overwhelming, Work, children, parents, studies, and relationships can be fulfilling when going well, but can be a source of stress and difficulty when challenges arise. Here at Alpha, we help you address the root cause of the things that get in the way of you achieving your preferred future. We help with addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and a need for direction and focus in your life
I practice brief solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, trauma-informed therapy and I am oriented to IFS.
At Alpha Optimal Living Inc. we support real people with real needs. Life as we know it can be overwhelming, Work, children, parents, studies, and relationships can be fulfilling when going well, but can be a source of stress and difficulty when challenges arise. Here at Alpha, we help you address the root cause of the things that get in the way of you achieving your preferred future. We help with addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and a need for direction and focus in your life
(226) 741-0422 View (226) 741-0422
Photo of Lisa J. Smith, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Lisa J. Smith
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
Certified in Emotion Focused Mindfulness, and mindfulness based therapies including, MBSR, MBCT, Self-Compassion, and CBT, Grief and Loss, Motivational Interviewing & Positive Psychology.
Life will bring challenges and difficult times causing confusion, fear, anxiety, depression…and numbness. We also experience transitions and losses, not only through the death of people we love, but loss of our health, relationships, jobs. Maybe you are a Health Care Provider with moral injury as a result of your challenging work? Chronic stressors can bring up feelings of fear and a lack of belief that we can cope. Some events and relationships may leave deeper, traumatic wounds. Sometimes it just feels like it is all ‘too much’. Whatever challenge brings you here, together we can work with and process these feelings.
Certified in Emotion Focused Mindfulness, and mindfulness based therapies including, MBSR, MBCT, Self-Compassion, and CBT, Grief and Loss, Motivational Interviewing & Positive Psychology.
Life will bring challenges and difficult times causing confusion, fear, anxiety, depression…and numbness. We also experience transitions and losses, not only through the death of people we love, but loss of our health, relationships, jobs. Maybe you are a Health Care Provider with moral injury as a result of your challenging work? Chronic stressors can bring up feelings of fear and a lack of belief that we can cope. Some events and relationships may leave deeper, traumatic wounds. Sometimes it just feels like it is all ‘too much’. Whatever challenge brings you here, together we can work with and process these feelings.
(226) 840-6657 View (226) 840-6657
Photo of HLR Psychotherapy, Mood, Trauma and Relationships, Registered Psychotherapist in London, ON
HLR Psychotherapy, Mood, Trauma and Relationships
Registered Psychotherapist, MD, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London, ON N6A
I have also been trained in motivational interviewing, CBT and Emotionally focused therapy for couples.
All the world is full of suffering. It is also full of overcoming (Helen Keller). I am a psychoanalyst and offer treatment for anxiety, depression, stress, loss, grief, low self-esteem/confidence and shyness. I specialize in issues arising from adult and childhood trauma, relationships with family or colleagues, life transitions of any form and gender identity. I believe it is equally important to work on our inner and outer selves and to include our past and present in order to develop a grounded and balanced sense of being. I provide a safe environment in-person or virtually where you can explore and develop your thoughts further.
I have also been trained in motivational interviewing, CBT and Emotionally focused therapy for couples.
All the world is full of suffering. It is also full of overcoming (Helen Keller). I am a psychoanalyst and offer treatment for anxiety, depression, stress, loss, grief, low self-esteem/confidence and shyness. I specialize in issues arising from adult and childhood trauma, relationships with family or colleagues, life transitions of any form and gender identity. I believe it is equally important to work on our inner and outer selves and to include our past and present in order to develop a grounded and balanced sense of being. I provide a safe environment in-person or virtually where you can explore and develop your thoughts further.
(647) 560-8423 View (647) 560-8423
Photo of Alana Sookoor, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Alana Sookoor
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6C  (Online Only)
I take an integrative strengths-based and culturally appropriate approach, drawing from a combination of evidence-based treatment modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I enjoy collaborating with clients to create a unique and meaningful therapeutic relationship that is built on compassion, dignity, and mutual respect. My goal is to create a warm and non-judgmental space where you feel safe to share, and where you feel heard and understood. I have experience working with youth and individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, identity issues, relationship issues, negative self-talk, mood instability, and those in periods of transition. I also have experience working with newcomers to Canada and youth in conflict with the law.
I take an integrative strengths-based and culturally appropriate approach, drawing from a combination of evidence-based treatment modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I enjoy collaborating with clients to create a unique and meaningful therapeutic relationship that is built on compassion, dignity, and mutual respect. My goal is to create a warm and non-judgmental space where you feel safe to share, and where you feel heard and understood. I have experience working with youth and individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, identity issues, relationship issues, negative self-talk, mood instability, and those in periods of transition. I also have experience working with newcomers to Canada and youth in conflict with the law.
(289) 210-7149 View (289) 210-7149
Photo of Melissa Anderson, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Melissa Anderson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PMH-C, BSP-P
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
London, ON N5V
I provide clinical counselling to clients using a variety of skills and techniques including Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and Gratitude practices.
I'm interested in helping mental health and healthcare workers, education workers, and first responders cope with the demands of these challenging and rewarding careers. I enjoy helping individuals overcome burnout and find their spark again. I am passionate about assisting families coping with perinatal mental health issues, birth and reproductive trauma, as well as the complexity that comes along with parenthood. I also assist adolescents and families navigate through crisis of suicidal ideation and attempts. I strive to help clients find balance in their life and feel like they are empowered and thriving.
I provide clinical counselling to clients using a variety of skills and techniques including Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and Gratitude practices.
I'm interested in helping mental health and healthcare workers, education workers, and first responders cope with the demands of these challenging and rewarding careers. I enjoy helping individuals overcome burnout and find their spark again. I am passionate about assisting families coping with perinatal mental health issues, birth and reproductive trauma, as well as the complexity that comes along with parenthood. I also assist adolescents and families navigate through crisis of suicidal ideation and attempts. I strive to help clients find balance in their life and feel like they are empowered and thriving.
(226) 455-1408 View (226) 455-1408
Photo of Resilient Cactus Psychotherapy, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Resilient Cactus Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MA can, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N5V  (Online Only)
My trauma-informed approach is informed by training in several therapeutic models including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Counselling, and Motivational Interviewing.
My approach involves developing an understanding of your experience, relationships, and emotions - this often involves sharing the science behind what you are experiencing. Then we will work together to process your emotions and resolve them, which allows life to feel more manageable. Whether you have experience with therapy, are a new-comer, are chatty, or are unsure where to start, my conversational approach to therapy can help to get you unstuck and back on the road to mental wellness! Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, past traumas, or any other issue, there is hope! Contact me for a free phone consultation.
My trauma-informed approach is informed by training in several therapeutic models including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Counselling, and Motivational Interviewing.
My approach involves developing an understanding of your experience, relationships, and emotions - this often involves sharing the science behind what you are experiencing. Then we will work together to process your emotions and resolve them, which allows life to feel more manageable. Whether you have experience with therapy, are a new-comer, are chatty, or are unsure where to start, my conversational approach to therapy can help to get you unstuck and back on the road to mental wellness! Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, past traumas, or any other issue, there is hope! Contact me for a free phone consultation.
(343) 304-6357 View (343) 304-6357
Photo of Heather Condon, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in London, ON
Heather Condon
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
I work in both in-person and virtually with adults and adolescents 16+ who feel as though something is preventing them from living their best and most authentic life. This may be overwhelming emotions, substance use, feelings of anxiety and panic, unhealed trauma, or a pervasive feeling that something is just “not right”. If this is you- my hope is to help you to feel as though you do not have to face these challenges alone. Therapy can help you to understand yourself and your life patterns, improve your relationships, develop coping skills and new ways of managing difficulties, and to feel more grounded and in control of your life.
I work in both in-person and virtually with adults and adolescents 16+ who feel as though something is preventing them from living their best and most authentic life. This may be overwhelming emotions, substance use, feelings of anxiety and panic, unhealed trauma, or a pervasive feeling that something is just “not right”. If this is you- my hope is to help you to feel as though you do not have to face these challenges alone. Therapy can help you to understand yourself and your life patterns, improve your relationships, develop coping skills and new ways of managing difficulties, and to feel more grounded and in control of your life.
(226) 908-0231 View (226) 908-0231
Photo of Abbey Seltzer, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Abbey Seltzer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
London, ON N5Y
You are taking the first and very important step toward healing and wholeness. I hope to help you on your journey. I work with adults who are experiencing grief (both current and historical), anxiety, depression, personal and work stress, infertility and non-traditional family planning, life transitions and recovery from the impacts of trauma.
You are taking the first and very important step toward healing and wholeness. I hope to help you on your journey. I work with adults who are experiencing grief (both current and historical), anxiety, depression, personal and work stress, infertility and non-traditional family planning, life transitions and recovery from the impacts of trauma.
(226) 918-5081 View (226) 918-5081
Photo of Maxwell Beckett, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Maxwell Beckett
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6C  (Online Only)
Are you finding everything too stressful right now? Have the last few years been just too much? Whether it is work, relationship, family, or just the stress of trying to make it through the week, I can help. No matter how good our friends or family are, it can be so helpful to have someone with an outside perspective to talk with and help sort through things. Our past does impact our present and understanding the ways we respond to the world can make it all so much easier. If you are looking for a therapist who will be supportive and non-judgemental while guiding you towards more self understanding and confidence, I can help.
Are you finding everything too stressful right now? Have the last few years been just too much? Whether it is work, relationship, family, or just the stress of trying to make it through the week, I can help. No matter how good our friends or family are, it can be so helpful to have someone with an outside perspective to talk with and help sort through things. Our past does impact our present and understanding the ways we respond to the world can make it all so much easier. If you are looking for a therapist who will be supportive and non-judgemental while guiding you towards more self understanding and confidence, I can help.
(343) 333-2265 View (343) 333-2265
Photo of Nicole Sedlak, Registered Psychotherapist in London, ON
Nicole Sedlak
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6B  (Online Only)
No matter how "together" you may appear on the outside, when you are hurting on the inside, life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. Perhaps you move through life with your attention always focused on the world around you that you never leave time to check in with yourself internally. Or perhaps you move through life with your attention so focused on your internal experience that it feels like the world around you is quickly passing you by. Whatever it is that you're experiencing, you’re not alone, and we can navigate it together.
No matter how "together" you may appear on the outside, when you are hurting on the inside, life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. Perhaps you move through life with your attention always focused on the world around you that you never leave time to check in with yourself internally. Or perhaps you move through life with your attention so focused on your internal experience that it feels like the world around you is quickly passing you by. Whatever it is that you're experiencing, you’re not alone, and we can navigate it together.
(226) 916-5342 View (226) 916-5342
Photo of Réanne Burgess, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Réanne Burgess
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6P
Over the past nine years my work has focused on supporting young individuals and families with relationship issues, family conflict and individual struggles such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotion regulation, and identity exploration. My approach focuses on helping parents and loved ones to better support their children by using behaviour coaching and emotion coaching.
Over the past nine years my work has focused on supporting young individuals and families with relationship issues, family conflict and individual struggles such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotion regulation, and identity exploration. My approach focuses on helping parents and loved ones to better support their children by using behaviour coaching and emotion coaching.
(226) 778-5520 View (226) 778-5520
Photo of Your Support Spot / T1D Support Spot, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Your Support Spot / T1D Support Spot
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6A
I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work and I am a registered social worker in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I offer counselling to individuals from all backgrounds, in a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space, whether in person or virtually. Whether you are managing anxiety, low self-esteem, difficult family dynamics, health issues or something else, reaching out for assistance is an investment in yourself. I aim to help you find balance through facilitating the development of coping skills to help you move forward with your life while managing its challenges.
I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work and I am a registered social worker in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I offer counselling to individuals from all backgrounds, in a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space, whether in person or virtually. Whether you are managing anxiety, low self-esteem, difficult family dynamics, health issues or something else, reaching out for assistance is an investment in yourself. I aim to help you find balance through facilitating the development of coping skills to help you move forward with your life while managing its challenges.
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Photo of Nelia Amaral, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Nelia Amaral
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N5Z  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Nelia Amaral, a registered social worker with a virtual part time private practice in London ON. I am a trauma informed practitioner, trained in EMDR, mindfulness, attachment, cognitive and narrative theories and practices. My passion is to support individuals work through life challenges such as trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress and burnout; regain a sense of self, cultivate resilience and live a meaningful life. In addition to individual sessions, I also provide workshops on navigating change, stress and burnout.
Hello, I am Nelia Amaral, a registered social worker with a virtual part time private practice in London ON. I am a trauma informed practitioner, trained in EMDR, mindfulness, attachment, cognitive and narrative theories and practices. My passion is to support individuals work through life challenges such as trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress and burnout; regain a sense of self, cultivate resilience and live a meaningful life. In addition to individual sessions, I also provide workshops on navigating change, stress and burnout.
(226) 406-5842 View (226) 406-5842
Photo of Cj Callaghan, Counsellor in London, ON
Cj Callaghan
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, OACCPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
I believe that the goal of therapy is to help you get rid of the emotional clutter and debris that you don't want in your life any more; to free you from the entanglements that prevent you from achieving greater success, happiness, and fulfillment. If you have problems with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma, abuse, anger, or just need to find a way to stop feeling 'stuck', I can help. We will address the emotional problems, troublesome habits, and relationship roadblocks that that prevent you from getting where you want to go.
I believe that the goal of therapy is to help you get rid of the emotional clutter and debris that you don't want in your life any more; to free you from the entanglements that prevent you from achieving greater success, happiness, and fulfillment. If you have problems with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma, abuse, anger, or just need to find a way to stop feeling 'stuck', I can help. We will address the emotional problems, troublesome habits, and relationship roadblocks that that prevent you from getting where you want to go.
(844) 332-2037 View (844) 332-2037
Photo of Peter Hodsman, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Peter Hodsman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6C  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with individuals living with long-term health difficulties or those affected by the health condition of a loved one. I welcome those who are working through the complexities of illness and recovery, identity and (dis)ability, and making meaning from the feeling of loss that can often accompany a change in our health and abilities. If you are seeking counseling support for issues related to COVID-19 or the world it created, please reach out. I am also a good fit for anyone living with depression, anxiety, struggles with relationships, major life transitions, or challenges with addictions.
I have a passion for working with individuals living with long-term health difficulties or those affected by the health condition of a loved one. I welcome those who are working through the complexities of illness and recovery, identity and (dis)ability, and making meaning from the feeling of loss that can often accompany a change in our health and abilities. If you are seeking counseling support for issues related to COVID-19 or the world it created, please reach out. I am also a good fit for anyone living with depression, anxiety, struggles with relationships, major life transitions, or challenges with addictions.
(226) 779-7549 View (226) 779-7549
Photo of Dr. Sherin Hussien, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Dr. Sherin Hussien
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6H  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist, and work primarily with individuals who are newcomers and refugees in settlement sector, on a wide variety of issues, including the following: Depression, Anxiety, Relationship challenges and problems (ex. marriage counseling), Self-esteem and identity challenges, Parenting issues and intergenerational conflict, Trauma impacts, Transitions to Canada resource building, and Support networking. My therapeutic approach is centered around building a therapeutic relationship where you feel seen, heard, valued, and trusted.
I am a trauma informed therapist, and work primarily with individuals who are newcomers and refugees in settlement sector, on a wide variety of issues, including the following: Depression, Anxiety, Relationship challenges and problems (ex. marriage counseling), Self-esteem and identity challenges, Parenting issues and intergenerational conflict, Trauma impacts, Transitions to Canada resource building, and Support networking. My therapeutic approach is centered around building a therapeutic relationship where you feel seen, heard, valued, and trusted.
(226) 773-9266 View (226) 773-9266
Photo of Jessica Smith, Registered Psychotherapist in London, ON
Jessica Smith
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
London, ON N6H  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients, evening/weekends available - I offer individual counselling services to teens and adults virtually by phone or video. We face many challenges, and it can be helpful to talk to someone so you don’t feel so overwhelmed or alone. I work with clients to explore their concerns in a client-centred, supportive, judgement free environment. Together we can create goals to work towards, creating positive change in your life.
Accepting new clients, evening/weekends available - I offer individual counselling services to teens and adults virtually by phone or video. We face many challenges, and it can be helpful to talk to someone so you don’t feel so overwhelmed or alone. I work with clients to explore their concerns in a client-centred, supportive, judgement free environment. Together we can create goals to work towards, creating positive change in your life.
(548) 490-6531 View (548) 490-6531

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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.