Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Whangarei

Photo of Ethan Carter, Psychologist, PhD
Ethan Carter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Whangarei 0112
Waitlist for new clients
I am a registered clinical psychologist holding a PhD in psychology. My practice is based in Whangārei, but I also provide telehealth services. As a psychologist I take a collaborative and client-centered approach, aiming to make psychology accessible, approachable, and non-intimidating. It’s not uncommon for people to experience some fear around working with a psychologist, and I prioritize putting that fear at ease and supporting clients to develop strategies to overcome their difficulties.
I am a registered clinical psychologist holding a PhD in psychology. My practice is based in Whangārei, but I also provide telehealth services. As a psychologist I take a collaborative and client-centered approach, aiming to make psychology accessible, approachable, and non-intimidating. It’s not uncommon for people to experience some fear around working with a psychologist, and I prioritize putting that fear at ease and supporting clients to develop strategies to overcome their difficulties.
0800 451 520 x54 View 0800 451 520 x54
Photo of Hadiyyeh Zohoori-Dossa - I Am Noble - Holistic Health Services, Counsellor, MSc
I Am Noble - Holistic Health Services
Counsellor, MSc
Verified Verified
Whangarei 0185
Welcome! If you’re new to I Am Noble, let me say I am so excited to serve you! Is there anything in your life you would like to change? Your job? Relationships? Friends? Your emotions? Thoughts? How you spend your free time? What about eating or other habits? Less pain? More peace? We all have something or other. Once you focus your intention and believe that it is possible, you are already on the road to success.
Welcome! If you’re new to I Am Noble, let me say I am so excited to serve you! Is there anything in your life you would like to change? Your job? Relationships? Friends? Your emotions? Thoughts? How you spend your free time? What about eating or other habits? Less pain? More peace? We all have something or other. Once you focus your intention and believe that it is possible, you are already on the road to success.
0800 451 520 x27 View 0800 451 520 x27
Photo of Dr. Maria Rotella, Psychologist
Dr. Maria Rotella
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Whangarei 0110
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about helping people break through barriers that are commonly imposed by the dominant culture while finding ways to work more comfortably both inside and outside ‘the box’ to achieve goals. I've worked with clients in settings ranging from prison to university, and you can count on my acceptance ‘as you are’ without judgment while helping you recognize and recover your own strengths. I bring expertise to support you with a wide variety of concerns, and I have particularly enjoyed working with clients whose lived experience includes neurodiversity, gender diversity, and relationship diversity.
I am passionate about helping people break through barriers that are commonly imposed by the dominant culture while finding ways to work more comfortably both inside and outside ‘the box’ to achieve goals. I've worked with clients in settings ranging from prison to university, and you can count on my acceptance ‘as you are’ without judgment while helping you recognize and recover your own strengths. I bring expertise to support you with a wide variety of concerns, and I have particularly enjoyed working with clients whose lived experience includes neurodiversity, gender diversity, and relationship diversity.
0800 447 359 x95 View 0800 447 359 x95

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shagoon Maurya - Safe Space with Shagoon, MA
Safe Space with Shagoon
MA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am an enthusiastic, energetic and reliable individual with a wealth of experiences combined with appropriate qualifications who has been supporting individuals through general, complex and diverse issues they may experience. I believe in creative yet simple ways to bring out positive emotional, social and cognitive changes in people. I have a diverse and comprehensive educational background from the University of Adelaide and Delhi (India). I have current police checks, all my DCSI screenings. Providing E-Counselling to NRIs and Indians. In one sentence, encouraging self care, positivity and mental health is my life’s passion.
I am an enthusiastic, energetic and reliable individual with a wealth of experiences combined with appropriate qualifications who has been supporting individuals through general, complex and diverse issues they may experience. I believe in creative yet simple ways to bring out positive emotional, social and cognitive changes in people. I have a diverse and comprehensive educational background from the University of Adelaide and Delhi (India). I have current police checks, all my DCSI screenings. Providing E-Counselling to NRIs and Indians. In one sentence, encouraging self care, positivity and mental health is my life’s passion.
0800 627 004 x55 View 0800 627 004 x55

Online Therapists

Photo of Tanima Rahman - Tanima Rahman at Feeling and Healing, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Tanima Rahman at Feeling and Healing
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Tanima Rahman, and my focus at Feeling and Healing is centered around offering quality counselling to all who seek it, and to remove cultural and/or language barriers for anyone in search for support in a safe and confidential environment. I am able to provide counselling services online to clients in English, Bengali, Hindi and Urdu, and understand the importance of offering a culturally sensitive, holistic approach to helping you navigate any personal challenges you wish to explore, be it Anxiety, Depression, Trauma or Grief. I can offer you guidance in nourishing your wellbeing and happiness - the first step is here.
My name is Tanima Rahman, and my focus at Feeling and Healing is centered around offering quality counselling to all who seek it, and to remove cultural and/or language barriers for anyone in search for support in a safe and confidential environment. I am able to provide counselling services online to clients in English, Bengali, Hindi and Urdu, and understand the importance of offering a culturally sensitive, holistic approach to helping you navigate any personal challenges you wish to explore, be it Anxiety, Depression, Trauma or Grief. I can offer you guidance in nourishing your wellbeing and happiness - the first step is here.
0800 627 024 x88 View 0800 627 024 x88
Photo of David McMillan - David McMillan Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
David McMillan Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auckland 0627
I have a strengths focus and my main therapeutic modalities are Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems, DBT, Solution Focussed Therapy, Existential Therapy and the client centred Motivational Interviewing.
I have space for new daytime only clients online or face to face in Northcote Point, Auckland. I am ACC registered. My specialist areas are Autism (but not PDA), ADHD, neurodiversity generally, trauma, cancer (I am a survivor myself), sexual abuse, anxiety, parenting, creating meaning, purpose and direction in life. I provide supportive, compassionate, and positive counselling with a focus on older children, teens, adults and families. Many think of me as a coach who helps them develop skills to cope with and overcome problems, to identify the life that they want for themselves and to work on ways to create that life for themselves.
I have a strengths focus and my main therapeutic modalities are Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems, DBT, Solution Focussed Therapy, Existential Therapy and the client centred Motivational Interviewing.
I have space for new daytime only clients online or face to face in Northcote Point, Auckland. I am ACC registered. My specialist areas are Autism (but not PDA), ADHD, neurodiversity generally, trauma, cancer (I am a survivor myself), sexual abuse, anxiety, parenting, creating meaning, purpose and direction in life. I provide supportive, compassionate, and positive counselling with a focus on older children, teens, adults and families. Many think of me as a coach who helps them develop skills to cope with and overcome problems, to identify the life that they want for themselves and to work on ways to create that life for themselves.
0800 447 359 x92 View 0800 447 359 x92
Photo of Barbara Torres, Counsellor, MSc, NZAC - Provisional
Barbara Torres
Counsellor, MSc, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Auckland 1010
We all know how difficult it can be to start something new. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or not, it’s quite normal to feel a range of different emotions. With this said, sometimes leaning into the process and stepping out of your comfort zone can bring a sense of relief and broaden your perspective on what’s possible. At times, we can feel as if we are walking life’s path alone, but that doesn’t mean we have to. Therapy provides that additional support and guidance to uncover barriers, facilitate options, and choose a value driven direction in life.
We all know how difficult it can be to start something new. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or not, it’s quite normal to feel a range of different emotions. With this said, sometimes leaning into the process and stepping out of your comfort zone can bring a sense of relief and broaden your perspective on what’s possible. At times, we can feel as if we are walking life’s path alone, but that doesn’t mean we have to. Therapy provides that additional support and guidance to uncover barriers, facilitate options, and choose a value driven direction in life.
0800 627 024 x96 View 0800 627 024 x96
Photo of Helen Amrein
Helen Amrein
Verified Verified
Auckland 0630
I also incorporate principles from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and family therapy.
If you or your loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, you’re not alone. As a specialist eating disorder clinician working across both public and private health, I’ve seen firsthand that recovery is possible—and lasting. Iwork with the many “friends” of eating disorders, including anxiety, ASD, low mood, and self-esteem challenges. Providing a safe, supportive space to navigate food, body image, and emotions while building resilience and creating lasting change. When working with young people, I collaborate closely with families, recognizing the strength within the family system to guide them through this challanging time.
I also incorporate principles from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and family therapy.
If you or your loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, you’re not alone. As a specialist eating disorder clinician working across both public and private health, I’ve seen firsthand that recovery is possible—and lasting. Iwork with the many “friends” of eating disorders, including anxiety, ASD, low mood, and self-esteem challenges. Providing a safe, supportive space to navigate food, body image, and emotions while building resilience and creating lasting change. When working with young people, I collaborate closely with families, recognizing the strength within the family system to guide them through this challanging time.
0800 451 540 x86 View 0800 451 540 x86
Photo of Stephanie Burd
Stephanie Burd
Verified Verified
Online Only
I draw on principle of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy alongside Motivational Interviewing strategies in my work with clients.
I work with primarily with people in Aotearoa New Zealand who want to flourish into their most authentic selves. I care about helping people to better understand their experiences of anxiety and depression. I am also a passionate ally to the LGBTQ+ community. My clients are looking to improve their relationship to their bodies and their self esteem with a compassionate and non-judgemental perspective. I work with people on improving their relationships to those around them, work-life balance, and managing high expectations of self and/or perfectionism.
I draw on principle of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy alongside Motivational Interviewing strategies in my work with clients.
I work with primarily with people in Aotearoa New Zealand who want to flourish into their most authentic selves. I care about helping people to better understand their experiences of anxiety and depression. I am also a passionate ally to the LGBTQ+ community. My clients are looking to improve their relationship to their bodies and their self esteem with a compassionate and non-judgemental perspective. I work with people on improving their relationships to those around them, work-life balance, and managing high expectations of self and/or perfectionism.
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Photo of Cathy Comber - Cathy Comber Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Cathy Comber Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Auckland 1050
You and your relationships matter—those with intimate partners, family, and close friends! When you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, loneliness, or other emotional pain, your well-being and that of those around you can be affected. You deserve a safe nurturing space to explore and address your feelings. Counselling helps you heal, gain insights, and develop strategies to manage your emotions and unhelpful behaviours. If overwhelming emotions are affecting your connections, seeking joint, couples, or family counselling can improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen your bond. Adults and teens welcome in-person or online.
You and your relationships matter—those with intimate partners, family, and close friends! When you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, loneliness, or other emotional pain, your well-being and that of those around you can be affected. You deserve a safe nurturing space to explore and address your feelings. Counselling helps you heal, gain insights, and develop strategies to manage your emotions and unhelpful behaviours. If overwhelming emotions are affecting your connections, seeking joint, couples, or family counselling can improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen your bond. Adults and teens welcome in-person or online.
0800 451 520 x33 View 0800 451 520 x33
Photo of Kriti Soni, Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
Kriti Soni
Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Auckland 1024
I have always had a passion and desire to help people become the best versions of themselves. I enjoy being the listening ear and the calm place people can come to and just be and share their struggles, but not only that, also celebrate their victories and I count this as a privilege. I have a passion for trauma work, as well as a wide range of other areas including but not limited to working with anxiety, depression, stress and time management, grief and loss, self-esteem and confidence issues.
I have always had a passion and desire to help people become the best versions of themselves. I enjoy being the listening ear and the calm place people can come to and just be and share their struggles, but not only that, also celebrate their victories and I count this as a privilege. I have a passion for trauma work, as well as a wide range of other areas including but not limited to working with anxiety, depression, stress and time management, grief and loss, self-esteem and confidence issues.
0800 447 264 x10 View 0800 447 264 x10
Photo of Jenny Smith, Counsellor, MNZCCA
Jenny Smith
Counsellor, MNZCCA
Verified Verified
Auckland 1061
Welcome! My name is Jen and I am a registered counsellor specialising in relationship work, sexual issues, addiction and trauma. I primarily work with adults and couples with a range of complex issues. I offer a non-judgmental environment and a relational approach with the hope that you and I can work together in order to find answers or solutions that you may be seeking. I am psychodynamically trained and enjoy the explorative process of therapy. I have been a therapist for several years and enjoy my work immensely. I approach each new client with curiosity, compassion and a hope for resolution. I look forward to hearing from you!
Welcome! My name is Jen and I am a registered counsellor specialising in relationship work, sexual issues, addiction and trauma. I primarily work with adults and couples with a range of complex issues. I offer a non-judgmental environment and a relational approach with the hope that you and I can work together in order to find answers or solutions that you may be seeking. I am psychodynamically trained and enjoy the explorative process of therapy. I have been a therapist for several years and enjoy my work immensely. I approach each new client with curiosity, compassion and a hope for resolution. I look forward to hearing from you!
0800 447 359 x36 View 0800 447 359 x36
Photo of Jenny M Freedman - Rainbow Consulting, Psychologist, MPsych
Rainbow Consulting
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I enjoy working with people committed to personal, relational and spiritual growth. My areas of interest include supporting the LGBTQ+ and Ethically Non Monogamous/polyamorous communities, as well as trauma survivors. I have 30 years experience with a variety of mental health problems & addictions. I am interested in attachment, loss, life transitions, relationships, spiritual & personal growth, gender, sex, sexuality, and neurodiversity. I provide assessment and diagnoses for mental health conditions and ADHD. I am honoured to support the transgender community through Informed Consent for Gender Affirming Care.
Hi! I enjoy working with people committed to personal, relational and spiritual growth. My areas of interest include supporting the LGBTQ+ and Ethically Non Monogamous/polyamorous communities, as well as trauma survivors. I have 30 years experience with a variety of mental health problems & addictions. I am interested in attachment, loss, life transitions, relationships, spiritual & personal growth, gender, sex, sexuality, and neurodiversity. I provide assessment and diagnoses for mental health conditions and ADHD. I am honoured to support the transgender community through Informed Consent for Gender Affirming Care.
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Photo of Rachel Adam, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Rachel Adam
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Auckland 2014
I am a Counsellor with 5+ years experience working alongside children, adolescents, young adults and their families to navigate the challenges that life can bring. My area of expertise and passion is with children, adolescents and young adults. My own personal journey with grief, loss, tragedy and mental health has shaped me to be an empathetic, warm and person-centred counsellor. I take a therapeutic approach that is culturally sensitive, strengths-based and tailored to the needs, goals and hopes of the individual. I like to create a safe space where people can come and share that is going on for them.
I am a Counsellor with 5+ years experience working alongside children, adolescents, young adults and their families to navigate the challenges that life can bring. My area of expertise and passion is with children, adolescents and young adults. My own personal journey with grief, loss, tragedy and mental health has shaped me to be an empathetic, warm and person-centred counsellor. I take a therapeutic approach that is culturally sensitive, strengths-based and tailored to the needs, goals and hopes of the individual. I like to create a safe space where people can come and share that is going on for them.
0800 451 540 x26 View 0800 451 540 x26
Photo of Lynette Adams, Counsellor, MNZAC
Lynette Adams
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Auckland 0630
I specialise in relationship issues (includes separation), family challenges and individual struggles. My approach is warm and caring, and I provide a safe space for you to tell your story and to be vulnerable. Your thoughts, feelings and hopes would be heard, respected, and valued. My work with couples, not only addresses the issues but includes reconnecting partners and to create your preferred relationship. Regardless of what you wish to achieve, we would focus on making meaningful changes and achieving your goals.
I specialise in relationship issues (includes separation), family challenges and individual struggles. My approach is warm and caring, and I provide a safe space for you to tell your story and to be vulnerable. Your thoughts, feelings and hopes would be heard, respected, and valued. My work with couples, not only addresses the issues but includes reconnecting partners and to create your preferred relationship. Regardless of what you wish to achieve, we would focus on making meaningful changes and achieving your goals.
0800 627 004 x15 View 0800 627 004 x15
Photo of Jenna Cunneen - BeChange , Psychologist, MA
BeChange
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Auckland 0632
I'm Jenna Cunneen, a psychologist with 20+ years of experience specialising in behaviour change for families, children, adolescents, and teens. I have a wealth of experience working with diverse clients of all ages and needs, I tailor my support to meet the unique goals and circumstances. Whether my clients are facing mental health difficulties, navigating tough life transitions, or learning to understand themselves, I offer guidance and evidenced-based support to help them achieve their aspirations. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, tapping into their strengths to cultivate resilience and foster positive change.
I'm Jenna Cunneen, a psychologist with 20+ years of experience specialising in behaviour change for families, children, adolescents, and teens. I have a wealth of experience working with diverse clients of all ages and needs, I tailor my support to meet the unique goals and circumstances. Whether my clients are facing mental health difficulties, navigating tough life transitions, or learning to understand themselves, I offer guidance and evidenced-based support to help them achieve their aspirations. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, tapping into their strengths to cultivate resilience and foster positive change.
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Photo of Sam Payne, Psychologist, MA
Sam Payne
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Auckland 0632
Kia ora, I am a registered psychologist providing therapy for adults in Albany, on the North Shore of Auckland, and in Parnell, near the city centre. I am also available for sessions online. At times, all of us feel overwhelmed, a lack of direction, or question where our lives are heading. Often it’s helpful to talk to someone outside our circle. Therapy is a space to reflect on our journey so far, build insight into how we got here, develop skills and approaches to cope with life’s challenges, and plan our next steps to move positively into the future and grow.
Kia ora, I am a registered psychologist providing therapy for adults in Albany, on the North Shore of Auckland, and in Parnell, near the city centre. I am also available for sessions online. At times, all of us feel overwhelmed, a lack of direction, or question where our lives are heading. Often it’s helpful to talk to someone outside our circle. Therapy is a space to reflect on our journey so far, build insight into how we got here, develop skills and approaches to cope with life’s challenges, and plan our next steps to move positively into the future and grow.
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Photo of Elise Buttenshaw, Psychologist
Elise Buttenshaw
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Online Only
However, I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, polyvagal theory, attachment theory and have experience in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
I have a background in youth and young adult mental health, nutrition, and health psychology. I have worked with a range of issues and needs, such as anxiety, depression, stress, sleep disruption, disordered eating, relationships and family dynamics, cancer related fatigue and treatment side effects, fear of recurrence, grief and loss, death and dying, and trauma (i.e., medical trauma, sexual, physical or emotional).
However, I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, polyvagal theory, attachment theory and have experience in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
I have a background in youth and young adult mental health, nutrition, and health psychology. I have worked with a range of issues and needs, such as anxiety, depression, stress, sleep disruption, disordered eating, relationships and family dynamics, cancer related fatigue and treatment side effects, fear of recurrence, grief and loss, death and dying, and trauma (i.e., medical trauma, sexual, physical or emotional).
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Photo of Ngairini Iris O'Kell - Island Bay Counsellor, Counsellor, MA
Island Bay Counsellor
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I will work on bringing out the best in you, using Strength/Child/Person focussed, then we may work with other modalities such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Emotionally Focussed or Motivational Interviewing.
Kia ora!"Ngairini was such a pleasure & Godsend in helping my teen sons. She has a lovely manner & is easy to open up to. She is super skilled in techniques to implement in support of her sessions & offers practical advice. I would highly recommend Ngairini." Gemma. "Ngairini is a great counsellor who listens w empathy to understand complex situations. She expertly uses her experiences in life to create an "I've been there too" connection w the children that gives them the understanding & empowerment to navigate the tough times." Fin.P. 'We found the experience useful. You were so welcoming and a great sounding board for Scott' Nik
I will work on bringing out the best in you, using Strength/Child/Person focussed, then we may work with other modalities such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Emotionally Focussed or Motivational Interviewing.
Kia ora!"Ngairini was such a pleasure & Godsend in helping my teen sons. She has a lovely manner & is easy to open up to. She is super skilled in techniques to implement in support of her sessions & offers practical advice. I would highly recommend Ngairini." Gemma. "Ngairini is a great counsellor who listens w empathy to understand complex situations. She expertly uses her experiences in life to create an "I've been there too" connection w the children that gives them the understanding & empowerment to navigate the tough times." Fin.P. 'We found the experience useful. You were so welcoming and a great sounding board for Scott' Nik
0800 451 520 x57 View 0800 451 520 x57
Photo of Matthew Smit, Psychotherapist, MA, PBANZ
Matthew Smit
Psychotherapist, MA, PBANZ
Verified Verified
Auckland 1041
I have worked with a wide range of clients over the 8 years I have been in the mental health field. I acknowledge that we are all individuals who require a unique approach to therapy. We will work collaboratively to develop the goals you want to achieve in therapy whether that be developing concrete skills to use in your everyday life or delving deeper into the root causes of your mental health issues. I will be there to guide you and support you in the ways you need. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy if that's improving an already positive life or uncovering the reasons why life feels more difficult than it should be.
I have worked with a wide range of clients over the 8 years I have been in the mental health field. I acknowledge that we are all individuals who require a unique approach to therapy. We will work collaboratively to develop the goals you want to achieve in therapy whether that be developing concrete skills to use in your everyday life or delving deeper into the root causes of your mental health issues. I will be there to guide you and support you in the ways you need. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy if that's improving an already positive life or uncovering the reasons why life feels more difficult than it should be.
0800 451 520 x39 View 0800 451 520 x39

See more therapy options for Whangarei

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.