Motivational Interviewing Psychiatrists in Astoria, NY

Photo of Racquel Weinberger, MSN, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Racquel Weinberger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103
Together with medication management, I incorporate solution-oriented strategies and motivational interviewing techniques.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at AVIMIND. While I have extensive experience, my primary focus is in ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD. My approach is holistic in which I strive to address all aspects of the mind, body, and environment, which impact our lives. To schedule an appointment, reach out via phone or email, or book online at avimind.com
Together with medication management, I incorporate solution-oriented strategies and motivational interviewing techniques.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at AVIMIND. While I have extensive experience, my primary focus is in ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD. My approach is holistic in which I strive to address all aspects of the mind, body, and environment, which impact our lives. To schedule an appointment, reach out via phone or email, or book online at avimind.com
(347) 657-6977 View (347) 657-6977
Photo of Jelilat Buhari - Healing light psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing light psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Motivational Interviewing Person-Centered treatment approaches in delivering care.
Are you sometimes afraid in a meeting and it feels like you are going to die or that everyone is looking at you, I understand your pain. I know a secret thought going through your head. I possess a strong desire to meet your expectations. I bring with me unique work experiences that have fostered my passion in helping clients struggling with mental illness. I provide medication management and supportive psychotherapy across the lifespan using evidence-based practice.
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Motivational Interviewing Person-Centered treatment approaches in delivering care.
Are you sometimes afraid in a meeting and it feels like you are going to die or that everyone is looking at you, I understand your pain. I know a secret thought going through your head. I possess a strong desire to meet your expectations. I bring with me unique work experiences that have fostered my passion in helping clients struggling with mental illness. I provide medication management and supportive psychotherapy across the lifespan using evidence-based practice.
(214) 974-4319 View (214) 974-4319
Photo of Richard Alexander Groll, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Alexander Groll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
During our session, I will discuss your unique symptomatology in context with DSM-V diagnostic criteria. Any presenting health concerns may need referral for routine physical and labs before FDA approved medications can be prescribed. We will collaborate to create a unique treatment plan and discuss evidence based treatment options. At a later date, we will follow up usually within 2-4 weeks for medication management and adjust medications as needed in addition to monitoring your symptoms.
During our session, I will discuss your unique symptomatology in context with DSM-V diagnostic criteria. Any presenting health concerns may need referral for routine physical and labs before FDA approved medications can be prescribed. We will collaborate to create a unique treatment plan and discuss evidence based treatment options. At a later date, we will follow up usually within 2-4 weeks for medication management and adjust medications as needed in addition to monitoring your symptoms.
(929) 362-6385 View (929) 362-6385
Photo of Nadia Oryema, MD, Psychiatrist
Nadia Oryema
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11105
I am a psychiatrist whose practice is grounded in providing high quality, person-centered care. I am passionate about helping people navgiate difficult periods in their lives and change patterns of thinking and behavior that cause distress. My approach respects and honors the unique experiences of those seeking treatment. I hold board certifications in both general adult and forensic psychiatry and have been in practice since 2018. I offer both therapy and medication management. Depending on your circumstances I might recommend one treatment modality or both. Treatment is dynamic and we would continue assess your needs over time.
I am a psychiatrist whose practice is grounded in providing high quality, person-centered care. I am passionate about helping people navgiate difficult periods in their lives and change patterns of thinking and behavior that cause distress. My approach respects and honors the unique experiences of those seeking treatment. I hold board certifications in both general adult and forensic psychiatry and have been in practice since 2018. I offer both therapy and medication management. Depending on your circumstances I might recommend one treatment modality or both. Treatment is dynamic and we would continue assess your needs over time.
(347) 542-7003 View (347) 542-7003
Photo of Narcisa Craciun - In Session Psychiatry & Psychotherapy, PMHNP, LMHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
In Session Psychiatry & Psychotherapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11106
Perhaps you're struggling with a significant life difficulty, or perhaps things are going ok, but you feel that something is missing. As you have come to a point that you have considered to make a change, whether it be a change in yourself, your relationship with others, or another area of your life, it is important to enter into a therapeutic relationship characterized by safety, trust, and professionalism. Our experienced team of clinicians is specialized in: anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief & bereavement, relationship issues, dating coaching, jealousy, work & career issues, stress & burnout, and life transitions.
Perhaps you're struggling with a significant life difficulty, or perhaps things are going ok, but you feel that something is missing. As you have come to a point that you have considered to make a change, whether it be a change in yourself, your relationship with others, or another area of your life, it is important to enter into a therapeutic relationship characterized by safety, trust, and professionalism. Our experienced team of clinicians is specialized in: anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief & bereavement, relationship issues, dating coaching, jealousy, work & career issues, stress & burnout, and life transitions.
(203) 666-4507 View (203) 666-4507
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar. The brain is a fragile organ and should be treated with respect.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar. The brain is a fragile organ and should be treated with respect.
(347) 921-9763 View (347) 921-9763
Photo of Shelley Padgett, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shelley Padgett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103  (Online Only)
Shelley Padgett is a warm and compassionate psychiatric provider. Her approach to treatment follows a wholistic model that combines talk therapy and medication as needed. She enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level. She creates a space that is safe and free of judgement. Shelley is down to earth and through empathy, she forms meaningful connections with her patients. Shelly has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is highly skilled in psychopharmacology. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD.
Shelley Padgett is a warm and compassionate psychiatric provider. Her approach to treatment follows a wholistic model that combines talk therapy and medication as needed. She enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level. She creates a space that is safe and free of judgement. Shelley is down to earth and through empathy, she forms meaningful connections with her patients. Shelly has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is highly skilled in psychopharmacology. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD.
(347) 707-7735 View (347) 707-7735
Photo of Shanyq Salop, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shanyq Salop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103
I help women identified with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and especially postpartum struggles live a more complete life, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood and energy level. I use a combination of medication management and holistic approaches (treating you as a whole person- mind, and body) so that you can live the life you've always wanted. I approach each person with curiosity, empathy, and passion to help you live the life you deserve. ​​Psychotherapy, nutraceuticals, and relaxation techniques are combined with medication management when necessary.
I help women identified with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and especially postpartum struggles live a more complete life, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood and energy level. I use a combination of medication management and holistic approaches (treating you as a whole person- mind, and body) so that you can live the life you've always wanted. I approach each person with curiosity, empathy, and passion to help you live the life you deserve. ​​Psychotherapy, nutraceuticals, and relaxation techniques are combined with medication management when necessary.
(718) 866-3759 View (718) 866-3759
Photo of Ruchi Vikas, DO, Psychiatrist
Ruchi Vikas
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11102  (Online Only)
I work with creative professionals in their 20s-40s who struggle with anxiety, persistent feelings of sadness, or a general sense of stagnation. I have specific expertise with college-age students, overwhelmed parents, and ambitious professionals who feel burnt out. I use a strengths-based approach to help you gain control of your life. Though all psychotherapy takes time, my patients consistently notice some new skills within the first six weeks of treatment. I suggest medications when indicated, but these are optional. Whatever you are struggling with- it is real, it is treatable, and we will confront it together.
I work with creative professionals in their 20s-40s who struggle with anxiety, persistent feelings of sadness, or a general sense of stagnation. I have specific expertise with college-age students, overwhelmed parents, and ambitious professionals who feel burnt out. I use a strengths-based approach to help you gain control of your life. Though all psychotherapy takes time, my patients consistently notice some new skills within the first six weeks of treatment. I suggest medications when indicated, but these are optional. Whatever you are struggling with- it is real, it is treatable, and we will confront it together.
(347) 868-6772 View (347) 868-6772
Photo of Ariel Cotallat, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ariel Cotallat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106  (Online Only)
In my practice, I specialize in helping individuals manage conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD through medication management and brief supportive therapy. I also provide support for personal challenges related to relationships, self-esteem, and sexual health. Having had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, including my LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, I've gained valuable insights and approaches. This varied experience helps me deeply connect with each person I work with, ensuring our journey together is both healing and empowering.
In my practice, I specialize in helping individuals manage conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD through medication management and brief supportive therapy. I also provide support for personal challenges related to relationships, self-esteem, and sexual health. Having had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, including my LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, I've gained valuable insights and approaches. This varied experience helps me deeply connect with each person I work with, ensuring our journey together is both healing and empowering.
(332) 334-8796 View (332) 334-8796
Photo of Korey Mann, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Korey Mann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103
My approach to mental health follows a holistic and wellness model. I believe each individual is unique and aim to preserve that uniqueness when comprising a treatment plan. One of the most important factors in treatment is comprising the treatment plan together with a shared decision making model. My goal is to help sustain mental wellness over the course of life so that you can live in your most authentic way. I’m also fluent in English, Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu, which aids in my goal to provide individualized, culturally-competent care.
My approach to mental health follows a holistic and wellness model. I believe each individual is unique and aim to preserve that uniqueness when comprising a treatment plan. One of the most important factors in treatment is comprising the treatment plan together with a shared decision making model. My goal is to help sustain mental wellness over the course of life so that you can live in your most authentic way. I’m also fluent in English, Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu, which aids in my goal to provide individualized, culturally-competent care.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vera Brown - Where Hearts Speak, PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Where Hearts Speak, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
My role will be to help you uncover the answers through a holistic, collaborative, trauma-informed, approach using motivational interviewing and psychodynamic informed strategies.
Hello and welcome to my profile! I've worked in mental health for 13 years. For the last 6 years, I provided both therapy and medication management to adults (25+) living with Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD (NY and MA only). I am also trained to provide Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. While I do not prescribe Ketamine, I enjoy offering support to those preparing to receive Ketamine treatment or those looking to integrate past Ketamine treatment experiences. I also provide coaching services (in/outside NY and MA) around personal growth and development, spirituality, and creativity.
My role will be to help you uncover the answers through a holistic, collaborative, trauma-informed, approach using motivational interviewing and psychodynamic informed strategies.
Hello and welcome to my profile! I've worked in mental health for 13 years. For the last 6 years, I provided both therapy and medication management to adults (25+) living with Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD (NY and MA only). I am also trained to provide Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. While I do not prescribe Ketamine, I enjoy offering support to those preparing to receive Ketamine treatment or those looking to integrate past Ketamine treatment experiences. I also provide coaching services (in/outside NY and MA) around personal growth and development, spirituality, and creativity.
(929) 306-6848 View (929) 306-6848
Photo of Neil Krishan Aggarwal, MD, MBA, MA, Psychiatrist
Neil Krishan Aggarwal
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10020
In my patient-centered approach, you are the expert on your life and I can help find solutions with evidence-based ways: medications, supportive psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, or psychodynamic therapy.
My broad education - medical school at Case, cultural psychiatry at Harvard, residency training at Yale - has helped me understand that people need help throughout life. I treat adults ages 18 and over with a wide range of problems, including anxiety and depression. I can work with you to make sense of tough transitions like grief, relationship issues, balancing family roles, divorce, not meeting expectations at work or school, and medical illnesses. As former advisor to Yale's University Chaplain, I know how people who are suffering search for hope. I teach and supervise psychotherapy at Columbia where I am a full professor.
In my patient-centered approach, you are the expert on your life and I can help find solutions with evidence-based ways: medications, supportive psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, or psychodynamic therapy.
My broad education - medical school at Case, cultural psychiatry at Harvard, residency training at Yale - has helped me understand that people need help throughout life. I treat adults ages 18 and over with a wide range of problems, including anxiety and depression. I can work with you to make sense of tough transitions like grief, relationship issues, balancing family roles, divorce, not meeting expectations at work or school, and medical illnesses. As former advisor to Yale's University Chaplain, I know how people who are suffering search for hope. I teach and supervise psychotherapy at Columbia where I am a full professor.
(917) 746-8687 View (917) 746-8687
Photo of Dr. Mark Nakhla, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Nakhla
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10029  (Online Only)
My therapy approaches incorporate elements of psychodynamic/exploratory psychotherapy therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-based approaches including cognitive-processing therapy, and interpersonal modalities.
I am a board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist. I utilize a compassionate, collaborative, and recovery-oriented approach to support each of my patients in living meaningful and sustainably healthy lives. I offer psychotherapy and medication management approaches where appropriate. I work with adults of all ages and treat a wide variety of concerns including anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and interpersonal challenges.
My therapy approaches incorporate elements of psychodynamic/exploratory psychotherapy therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-based approaches including cognitive-processing therapy, and interpersonal modalities.
I am a board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist. I utilize a compassionate, collaborative, and recovery-oriented approach to support each of my patients in living meaningful and sustainably healthy lives. I offer psychotherapy and medication management approaches where appropriate. I work with adults of all ages and treat a wide variety of concerns including anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and interpersonal challenges.
(347) 941-1342 View (347) 941-1342
Photo of Kenneth Paul Rosenberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Kenneth Paul Rosenberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10075  (Online Only)
Our treatment consists of evidence-based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral approaches to identify triggers, dialectical behavioral techniques to manage cravings, relapse prevention strategies, insight-oriented therapy to identify deeper causes, family assessment to resolve conflicts, and treatment of co-morbid mental illness.
My practice provides outpatient care for addictions, sexual disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, cognitive impairments, and psychotic disorders. While we promote psychotherapeutic and holistic treatments, we also offer medications when suitable. We may prescribe non-addictive medicines to control cravings, prevent relapse, treat sleep disorders, manage anxiety and improve mood. Our treatment consists of evidence-based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral approaches to identify triggers, dialectical behavioral techniques to manage
Our treatment consists of evidence-based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral approaches to identify triggers, dialectical behavioral techniques to manage cravings, relapse prevention strategies, insight-oriented therapy to identify deeper causes, family assessment to resolve conflicts, and treatment of co-morbid mental illness.
My practice provides outpatient care for addictions, sexual disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, cognitive impairments, and psychotic disorders. While we promote psychotherapeutic and holistic treatments, we also offer medications when suitable. We may prescribe non-addictive medicines to control cravings, prevent relapse, treat sleep disorders, manage anxiety and improve mood. Our treatment consists of evidence-based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral approaches to identify triggers, dialectical behavioral techniques to manage
(914) 350-4091 View (914) 350-4091
Photo of Erica Silen, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Silen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
Trained in motivational interviewing, I incorporate many of the skills I acquired in my daily practice, including active listening, reflection, and meeting clients "where they are at.
I am a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in diagnosis, medication management, and therapy. Since graduating from Columbia School of Nursing in 2012, I have gained extensive experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a wide range of symptoms. Addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. I work with families to create a calming and trusting environment. Clients and families are encouraged to discuss their wants, needs, and fears, which in turn helps to destigmatize the process.
Trained in motivational interviewing, I incorporate many of the skills I acquired in my daily practice, including active listening, reflection, and meeting clients "where they are at.
I am a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in diagnosis, medication management, and therapy. Since graduating from Columbia School of Nursing in 2012, I have gained extensive experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a wide range of symptoms. Addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. I work with families to create a calming and trusting environment. Clients and families are encouraged to discuss their wants, needs, and fears, which in turn helps to destigmatize the process.
(646) 392-7251 View (646) 392-7251
Photo of Constantine S Checa-Gerena, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Constantine S Checa-Gerena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
I use an eclectic approach but specifically the lenses and modalities of Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and Reiki as well as offer my clients the option of medications to help them move forward.
How to get relief from anxiety, depression, insomnia, distractibility, grief, and the other negative feelings is not something we learn in school. It is not often discussed in our household or in the workplace, yet there are social expectations that we should just manage and keep going despite the often paralyzing shame that comes with realizing we need support. I hope to offer a safe space where we can better understand these feelings and how it is affecting the way we live, love, and relate.
I use an eclectic approach but specifically the lenses and modalities of Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and Reiki as well as offer my clients the option of medications to help them move forward.
How to get relief from anxiety, depression, insomnia, distractibility, grief, and the other negative feelings is not something we learn in school. It is not often discussed in our household or in the workplace, yet there are social expectations that we should just manage and keep going despite the often paralyzing shame that comes with realizing we need support. I hope to offer a safe space where we can better understand these feelings and how it is affecting the way we live, love, and relate.
(914) 979-2307 View (914) 979-2307
Photo of Jessica Kirby-Smith, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Kirby-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11103
My approach to mental health care is to tailor treatment for the specific needs of each individual. I recognize that everyone has their own unique stories and struggles. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable to express themselves in a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment.
My approach to mental health care is to tailor treatment for the specific needs of each individual. I recognize that everyone has their own unique stories and struggles. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable to express themselves in a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment.
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Photo of Ahron Friedberg - Ahron Friedberg, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Ahron Friedberg, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
My therapeutic approach is to combine best clinical psychotherapy and psychopharmacology practices informed by contemporary neuroscience. Rather than focusing on diagnosis and disease, I am oriented toward maximizing health and wellness. I try to help a person full his or her potential in work and relationships, while achieving realistic goals and higher aims. If you'd like to set up a consultation, please call me directly at 212 737 5099.
My therapeutic approach is to combine best clinical psychotherapy and psychopharmacology practices informed by contemporary neuroscience. Rather than focusing on diagnosis and disease, I am oriented toward maximizing health and wellness. I try to help a person full his or her potential in work and relationships, while achieving realistic goals and higher aims. If you'd like to set up a consultation, please call me directly at 212 737 5099.
(212) 737-5099 View (212) 737-5099
Photo of Emmie Macalisang, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emmie Macalisang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Emmie Macalisang is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a focus on a holistic and person-centered approach. She prides in providing compassionate and respectful care where clients feel attended to and valued, promoting a trusting and collaborative relationship with her clients. She has experience in caring for the underserved and diverse population with various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders.
Emmie Macalisang is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a focus on a holistic and person-centered approach. She prides in providing compassionate and respectful care where clients feel attended to and valued, promoting a trusting and collaborative relationship with her clients. She has experience in caring for the underserved and diverse population with various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders.
(929) 930-4564 View (929) 930-4564
Motivational Interviewing Psychiatrists

How does motivational interviewing work?

Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathizes, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.

Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?

Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviors in children.

How long does motivational interviewing last?

Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.

What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?

In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behavior.