Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Wallaceburg, ON

Photo of Chris Lindsay, MEd, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Chris Lindsay
Registered Social Worker, MEd, RSW
Verified Verified
Wallaceburg, ON N8A
When you experience the weight of depression, or the fear of anxiety and trauma, managing your day-to-day tasks can be really hard. No doubt you have tried to make things better. Lack of progress feels both frustrating and discouraging. You might be stuck, but you still feel some hope that -- with a bit of help -- you can feel some enjoyment and satisfaction in your life.
When you experience the weight of depression, or the fear of anxiety and trauma, managing your day-to-day tasks can be really hard. No doubt you have tried to make things better. Lack of progress feels both frustrating and discouraging. You might be stuck, but you still feel some hope that -- with a bit of help -- you can feel some enjoyment and satisfaction in your life.
(226) 457-0697 View (226) 457-0697
Photo of undefined - Choose A Lifestyle, MA, RP, RPN, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Choose A Lifestyle
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RPN, CCC
Verified Verified
Wallaceburg, ON N8A
Clients with depression, anxiety, substance abuse and broken relationships find my person-centered approach helpful. I listen and guide one's feelings so that the root of the problem surfaces for healing. Planning goals together gives the best outcome. Choosing to take notes and following through with home work always gives an advantage to progress to meeting goals.
Clients with depression, anxiety, substance abuse and broken relationships find my person-centered approach helpful. I listen and guide one's feelings so that the root of the problem surfaces for healing. Planning goals together gives the best outcome. Choosing to take notes and following through with home work always gives an advantage to progress to meeting goals.
(289) 768-7912 View (289) 768-7912
Photo of Jennifer L Andrews, BA, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer L Andrews
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Wallaceburg, ON N8A
You are not alone! I work with a variety of people from all circles of life who feel that there is more to their life than just going through the motions. Thoughts and feelings can hold people back from reaching their goals. I guide my clients through the clutter of the toxic thoughts and restricting beliefs and help them learn effective strategies to create the freedom they deserve and to lead a fulfilling, joyful life. I work with people who are tired of living their life by other people's rule and expectations. I help people who are ready to take action and create a life full of joy that they know is out there waiting for them.
You are not alone! I work with a variety of people from all circles of life who feel that there is more to their life than just going through the motions. Thoughts and feelings can hold people back from reaching their goals. I guide my clients through the clutter of the toxic thoughts and restricting beliefs and help them learn effective strategies to create the freedom they deserve and to lead a fulfilling, joyful life. I work with people who are tired of living their life by other people's rule and expectations. I help people who are ready to take action and create a life full of joy that they know is out there waiting for them.
(226) 916-5433 View (226) 916-5433
Photo of undefined - The Dot Canada, MA, RP, MSW, Registered Psychotherapist
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MSW
Verified Verified
Wallaceburg, ON N8A  (Online Only)
If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
(548) 485-5842 View (548) 485-5842
Photo of Rebecca Ann Miller, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rebecca Ann Miller
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Wallaceburg, ON N8A
Welcome to Sparrow Counselling! Taking the first step to schedule an appointment can feel daunting. But did you know clients often report an immense sense of relief after a first session? I’m here to help you take that first step and walk beside you while we figure out where you’re headed.
Welcome to Sparrow Counselling! Taking the first step to schedule an appointment can feel daunting. But did you know clients often report an immense sense of relief after a first session? I’m here to help you take that first step and walk beside you while we figure out where you’re headed.
(519) 401-4999 View (519) 401-4999
Photo of undefined - Mamoo Naakiiwin Counselling & Consulting, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mamoo Naakiiwin Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
Wallaceburg, ON N8A
Not accepting new clients
I provide culturally informed non-judgemental services, situated in Anishinaabe ways of seeing, being, knowing and doing. As a mental health and mindfulness practitioner, I welcome all community members (Indigenous and non-Indigenous) who may be struggling with mental health, addictions, trauma, loss, cultural and identity issues that are negatively impacting your well being.
I provide culturally informed non-judgemental services, situated in Anishinaabe ways of seeing, being, knowing and doing. As a mental health and mindfulness practitioner, I welcome all community members (Indigenous and non-Indigenous) who may be struggling with mental health, addictions, trauma, loss, cultural and identity issues that are negatively impacting your well being.
(226) 455-9963 View (226) 455-9963

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa J. Smith, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa J. Smith
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 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 Lauralee Kadak, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lauralee Kadak
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Delhi, ON N4B  (Online Only)
I draw from a range of different modalities including CBT, DBT, Collaborative Problem-Solving (CPS), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
The first step is the hardest and making changes in your life can feel overwhelming. Your journey is unique, but you are not alone! My sessions offer a safe and supportive place where you can feel comfortable expressing your feelings and emotions and where vulnerability does not mean weakness.
I draw from a range of different modalities including CBT, DBT, Collaborative Problem-Solving (CPS), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
The first step is the hardest and making changes in your life can feel overwhelming. Your journey is unique, but you are not alone! My sessions offer a safe and supportive place where you can feel comfortable expressing your feelings and emotions and where vulnerability does not mean weakness.
(226) 781-3716 View (226) 781-3716
Photo of Daniel Young (Psychotherapy For You Canada), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Daniel Young (Psychotherapy For You Canada)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Social Worker specializing in online counselling for individual men, women, couples and families. I am dedicated to providing high-quality therapeutic care to my clients utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including talk therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy,acceptance and Commitment Therapy,Solution Focused Brief Therapy and other evidence-based approaches.I am passionate about helping people and have dedicated my career to improve client mental health and overall well-being. I understand that life can be challenging and sometimes we all need a little extra
I am a Registered Social Worker specializing in online counselling for individual men, women, couples and families. I am dedicated to providing high-quality therapeutic care to my clients utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including talk therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy,acceptance and Commitment Therapy,Solution Focused Brief Therapy and other evidence-based approaches.I am passionate about helping people and have dedicated my career to improve client mental health and overall well-being. I understand that life can be challenging and sometimes we all need a little extra
(226) 840-0632 View (226) 840-0632
Photo of Jacob Thrasher, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jacob Thrasher
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, ON N9J  (Online Only)
, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative and Family Systems Therapy.
I have over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. Over the years I have worked with individuals and families from all different ages, diverse backgrounds, and all walks of life. I have worked with clients in the hospital, school, community and private settings, and have been a clinical instructor for the University of Toronto. Currently I am accepting new adolescent and adult clients. My style is caring, laid back, encouraging, strength-based and compassionate. I believe the best therapy is client-focused, and regardless of modality, a safe and trusting client-therapist relationship is absolutely fundamental.
, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative and Family Systems Therapy.
I have over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. Over the years I have worked with individuals and families from all different ages, diverse backgrounds, and all walks of life. I have worked with clients in the hospital, school, community and private settings, and have been a clinical instructor for the University of Toronto. Currently I am accepting new adolescent and adult clients. My style is caring, laid back, encouraging, strength-based and compassionate. I believe the best therapy is client-focused, and regardless of modality, a safe and trusting client-therapist relationship is absolutely fundamental.
(226) 705-0651 View (226) 705-0651
Photo of Joseph Thomas, RP, MSc Psy, Registered Psychotherapist
Joseph Thomas
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, ON N9E  (Online Only)
My proficiency extends across a spectrum of therapeutic modalities, encompassing EMDR, DBT, CBT, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
As a Registered Psychotherapist with a Master's Degree in Applied Psychology and over Ten years of experience in mental-health support, I am committed to helping teenagers/students, adults, and families lead fulfilling lives. My expertise lies in providing counseling and strategies to address mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, immigration challenges, and relationship/family stress. I strive to empower individuals to embrace joy and fulfillment while navigating the complexities of mental health.
My proficiency extends across a spectrum of therapeutic modalities, encompassing EMDR, DBT, CBT, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
As a Registered Psychotherapist with a Master's Degree in Applied Psychology and over Ten years of experience in mental-health support, I am committed to helping teenagers/students, adults, and families lead fulfilling lives. My expertise lies in providing counseling and strategies to address mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, immigration challenges, and relationship/family stress. I strive to empower individuals to embrace joy and fulfillment while navigating the complexities of mental health.
(226) 243-7115 View (226) 243-7115
Photo of Stephanie Carter, BA, MSW, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Stephanie Carter
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MSW, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woodstock, ON N4S
I work primarily with adults and use trauma-informed interventions, integrating modalities such as motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, somatic experiencing, attachment theory, polyvagal theory and parts work.
You are strong, you are wise, you are enough. I believe in the resilience and capacity within every human being; therefore, I provide support by helping people recognize, nurture, and listen to their own wisdom to move through life's various challenges. My mission is to provide empathy and authenticity in a down-to-earth approach when I am meeting with clients. I want to ensure my clients feel valued and heard in each interaction.
I work primarily with adults and use trauma-informed interventions, integrating modalities such as motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, somatic experiencing, attachment theory, polyvagal theory and parts work.
You are strong, you are wise, you are enough. I believe in the resilience and capacity within every human being; therefore, I provide support by helping people recognize, nurture, and listen to their own wisdom to move through life's various challenges. My mission is to provide empathy and authenticity in a down-to-earth approach when I am meeting with clients. I want to ensure my clients feel valued and heard in each interaction.
(226) 455-6927 View (226) 455-6927
Photo of Gabriela Abbas, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Gabriela Abbas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Leamington, ON N8H  (Online Only)
Gabriela Abbas is a mental health professional whose passion is to guide individuals through both their external and internal struggles under a holistic, evidence based approach. She is specialized in CBT, ACT, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing and DBT Therapy Interventions.
Gabriela Abbas is a mental health professional whose passion is to guide individuals through both their external and internal struggles under a holistic, evidence based approach. She is specialized in CBT, ACT, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing and DBT Therapy Interventions.
(548) 484-5525 View (548) 484-5525
Photo of Alana Sookoor, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
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 Paula Watts, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
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 Daniel Nehmetallah, RSW, MSW, CCTP, Registered Social Worker
Daniel Nehmetallah
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, ON N8X
My particular approaches that I use are cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, motivational interviewing, and somatic therapy.
Hello, my name is Daniel Nehmetallah, I am a Registered Social Worker and trained as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. As someone who’s struggled with mental health while navigating intersections of identity and culture, I understand what it is like to struggle internally. Seeking out help can be a challenging journey that requires self reflection and a willingness to embrace vulnerability, especially when there are many barriers in place holding us back. With this, I strongly believe that every person is deserving of transformation and healing.
My particular approaches that I use are cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, motivational interviewing, and somatic therapy.
Hello, my name is Daniel Nehmetallah, I am a Registered Social Worker and trained as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. As someone who’s struggled with mental health while navigating intersections of identity and culture, I understand what it is like to struggle internally. Seeking out help can be a challenging journey that requires self reflection and a willingness to embrace vulnerability, especially when there are many barriers in place holding us back. With this, I strongly believe that every person is deserving of transformation and healing.
(226) 894-0362 View (226) 894-0362
Photo of undefined - Alfredo Marroquín Psychotherapy and Counselling, BEd, OTC, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
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 Dr. Trang K Le, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Trang K Le
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, ON N9B  (Online Only)
These include emotion-focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Welcome! I am a registered clinical psychologist with 10+ years of experience providing individual psychotherapy to adults who are struggling with a wide range of challenges. I have particular expertise in treating depression, anxiety and trauma-related issues. Additional areas of experience include: acculturation, ethnic/racial identity, grief and bereavement, stress, relationship issues, and life transitions. In therapy, I strive to provide a safe and non-judgemental environment for you to explore your difficulties.
These include emotion-focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Welcome! I am a registered clinical psychologist with 10+ years of experience providing individual psychotherapy to adults who are struggling with a wide range of challenges. I have particular expertise in treating depression, anxiety and trauma-related issues. Additional areas of experience include: acculturation, ethnic/racial identity, grief and bereavement, stress, relationship issues, and life transitions. In therapy, I strive to provide a safe and non-judgemental environment for you to explore your difficulties.
(519) 916-1225 View (519) 916-1225
Photo of Meredith Coffin, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Meredith Coffin
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Windsor, ON N8T
I have training in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
I bring over 15 years of experience as a clinical social worker, and am deeply committed to aiding individuals through their intricate life challenges. Serving as a community social worker in Ottawa, I've had the privilege of collaborating creatively with a diverse clientele. My extensive expertise encompasses working with adolescents, teens, and adults, focusing on relational issues, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and complex trauma. Passionate about supporting others, I strive to make a meaningful impact on their journeys toward healing and growth.
I have training in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
I bring over 15 years of experience as a clinical social worker, and am deeply committed to aiding individuals through their intricate life challenges. Serving as a community social worker in Ottawa, I've had the privilege of collaborating creatively with a diverse clientele. My extensive expertise encompasses working with adolescents, teens, and adults, focusing on relational issues, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and complex trauma. Passionate about supporting others, I strive to make a meaningful impact on their journeys toward healing and growth.
(548) 490-7652 View (548) 490-7652
Photo of undefined - HLR Psychotherapy, Mood, Trauma and Relationships, MD, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
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

See more therapy options for Wallaceburg

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.