Photo of Micah Middlebrook, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Micah Middlebrook
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I am welcoming and friendly. I have twenty years of psychotherapy practice and believe every person and every day is an opportunity for better living. I believe learning your story with empathy and compassion is the foundation of an effective therapeutic alliance. My approach is based on Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with client-centered unconditional positive regard. We will find areas of security, self-esteem, reassurance, and confidence.
I am welcoming and friendly. I have twenty years of psychotherapy practice and believe every person and every day is an opportunity for better living. I believe learning your story with empathy and compassion is the foundation of an effective therapeutic alliance. My approach is based on Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with client-centered unconditional positive regard. We will find areas of security, self-esteem, reassurance, and confidence.
(510) 901-4118 View (510) 901-4118
Photo of Emi Takeshita-Doty, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Emi Takeshita-Doty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
Most often, I select effective strategies from person-centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
As a clinician, I take a genuine and authentic approach and value the client-therapist relationship. I appreciate the opportunity to walk with clients in their journey and I strive to seek solutions and strategies that are meaningful to them. My goal is to encourage healing and growth during the therapeutic process.
Most often, I select effective strategies from person-centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
As a clinician, I take a genuine and authentic approach and value the client-therapist relationship. I appreciate the opportunity to walk with clients in their journey and I strive to seek solutions and strategies that are meaningful to them. My goal is to encourage healing and growth during the therapeutic process.
(510) 399-0536 View (510) 399-0536
Photo of Eliott Gillooly, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 92626, CA
Eliott Gillooly
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I work from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and brief therapy techniques, such as EFT, that can be quickly effective and is able to be used independently by clients outside of therapy sessions and Brainspotting, which aids clients in processing difficult emotions.
I work with children, teenagers, and adults, and I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ, Disabled, and Neurodivergent individuals of all ages. I am here to create an empathetic and supportive space to assist clients in exploring a range of mental health concerns effectively, including depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, self-harm, suicidal ideation, trauma and PTSD.
I work from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and brief therapy techniques, such as EFT, that can be quickly effective and is able to be used independently by clients outside of therapy sessions and Brainspotting, which aids clients in processing difficult emotions.
I work with children, teenagers, and adults, and I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ, Disabled, and Neurodivergent individuals of all ages. I am here to create an empathetic and supportive space to assist clients in exploring a range of mental health concerns effectively, including depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, self-harm, suicidal ideation, trauma and PTSD.
(657) 837-5832 View (657) 837-5832
Photo of Luiza Arzumanian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Luiza Arzumanian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I have 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I utilize a blend of Cognitive Behavioral, Strengths-Based, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy to instill hope, bring about positive change, and empower you to reach your full potential. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, career issues, life transitions, grief, substance use, and cultural identity.
I have 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I utilize a blend of Cognitive Behavioral, Strengths-Based, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy to instill hope, bring about positive change, and empower you to reach your full potential. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, career issues, life transitions, grief, substance use, and cultural identity.
(949) 304-5401 View (949) 304-5401
Photo of Marion Kvasnicka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Marion Kvasnicka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I enjoy using CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, systems theory, trauma-focused, person-centered, exposure therapy, gestalt, and narrative therapy.
Hi everyone! My name is Marion Kvasnicka. I am a licensed clinical social worker - LCSW. I believe in long-term relief of symptoms. I believe that developing skills with clients will help them break the patterns of thought and behavior that are wreaking havoc on their personal or work life. I focus on identifying generational trauma and helping my clients work hard to stop future abuse and trauma from continuing. I typically work with clients who suffer from acute stress, SAD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I enjoy using CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, systems theory, trauma-focused, person-centered, exposure therapy, gestalt, and narrative therapy.
Hi everyone! My name is Marion Kvasnicka. I am a licensed clinical social worker - LCSW. I believe in long-term relief of symptoms. I believe that developing skills with clients will help them break the patterns of thought and behavior that are wreaking havoc on their personal or work life. I focus on identifying generational trauma and helping my clients work hard to stop future abuse and trauma from continuing. I typically work with clients who suffer from acute stress, SAD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(341) 895-7816 View (341) 895-7816
Photo of Kellie Bougard Jordan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 92626, CA
Kellie Bougard Jordan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic, Narrative , Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical counselor licensed in the state of California. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, addiction, familial / relationship issues, emotional and physical abuse, Grief and trauma related issues, substance abuse ,parenting problems, impulsivity, self-esteem issues, and OCD. My counseling style is warm and supportive.
My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic, Narrative , Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical counselor licensed in the state of California. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, addiction, familial / relationship issues, emotional and physical abuse, Grief and trauma related issues, substance abuse ,parenting problems, impulsivity, self-esteem issues, and OCD. My counseling style is warm and supportive.
(714) 497-1687 View (714) 497-1687
Photo of Kira Schetter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Kira Schetter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
It is my belief that therapy is a partnership, and if you're ready for help, together we can make strides in achieving your goals. Real and enduring change requires fresh thinking and different approaches to your old problems. I'm an eclectic therapist, meaning I use different tools from multiple treatment modalities to fit your unique circumstances and needs. My ultimate goal is to work in partnership with you to build the skills you need to achieve your objectives for yourself or for your family, and to help you make new and better choices.
It is my belief that therapy is a partnership, and if you're ready for help, together we can make strides in achieving your goals. Real and enduring change requires fresh thinking and different approaches to your old problems. I'm an eclectic therapist, meaning I use different tools from multiple treatment modalities to fit your unique circumstances and needs. My ultimate goal is to work in partnership with you to build the skills you need to achieve your objectives for yourself or for your family, and to help you make new and better choices.
(510) 405-7468 View (510) 405-7468
Photo of David Shepard, Psychologist in 92626, CA
David Shepard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My name is Dr. David Shepard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am also a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationship challenges, intimacy/sexual health, life transitions, sexuality/LGBTQ+, and identity/self-esteem issues. My therapeutic approach is integrative, person-centered, multicultural focused, collaborative, and strength based.
My name is Dr. David Shepard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am also a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationship challenges, intimacy/sexual health, life transitions, sexuality/LGBTQ+, and identity/self-esteem issues. My therapeutic approach is integrative, person-centered, multicultural focused, collaborative, and strength based.
(657) 256-4482 View (657) 256-4482
Photo of Maxcy Dancy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Maxcy Dancy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
Creating a safe, accepting, and empathetic environment can allow one to tune into their resources, resiliency, sense of strength, and connection to others. Creating this environment helps individuals uncover their stories, find healing and learn new approaches to living the life they want. I specialize in providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship and dating difficulties, communication issues, food and body image struggles, addictions, and family conflict.
Creating a safe, accepting, and empathetic environment can allow one to tune into their resources, resiliency, sense of strength, and connection to others. Creating this environment helps individuals uncover their stories, find healing and learn new approaches to living the life they want. I specialize in providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship and dating difficulties, communication issues, food and body image struggles, addictions, and family conflict.
(510) 241-4308 View (510) 241-4308
Photo of Maria Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Maria Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Life has many up and downs, loops and sharp curves. Hello! I am Maria Williams and my goal is to assist in untangling and finding options to our current situations. I am bilingual, bicultural, first generation Latina. I specialize in working with adults facing life transition difficulties, anxiety, depression, grieving and trauma. I have been certified in various evidence based practices. I am passionate to work and assist in supporting the desired change. I believe that change happens when we are supported to draw on our own strengths and realize our own potential to live fulfilling lives.
Life has many up and downs, loops and sharp curves. Hello! I am Maria Williams and my goal is to assist in untangling and finding options to our current situations. I am bilingual, bicultural, first generation Latina. I specialize in working with adults facing life transition difficulties, anxiety, depression, grieving and trauma. I have been certified in various evidence based practices. I am passionate to work and assist in supporting the desired change. I believe that change happens when we are supported to draw on our own strengths and realize our own potential to live fulfilling lives.
(657) 837-5536 View (657) 837-5536
Photo of Armig Yepremian, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Armig Yepremian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to be your authentic self. I will give you room to access your own wisdom and help collaborate with you to make difficulties easier to sit with. I am passionate about seeing individuals for who they are and view treatment as a whole-person care model. I use a strength-based approach; I find what a person does well and assist in enhancing that skill. I often use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice.
I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to be your authentic self. I will give you room to access your own wisdom and help collaborate with you to make difficulties easier to sit with. I am passionate about seeing individuals for who they are and view treatment as a whole-person care model. I use a strength-based approach; I find what a person does well and assist in enhancing that skill. I often use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice.
(510) 726-8212 View (510) 726-8212
Photo of Frank Baird, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Frank Baird
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I am a mindfulness-based, collaborative, solution-oriented psychotherapist, life coach, and mindfulness trainer. I provide support and expertise for you in your efforts to make positive changes in your life and relationships. I can help you create satisfaction and happiness based on your goals, values, beliefs, strengths, and preferences. It's your life. You matter. I can help you improve your life by developing new ideas and skills or reconnecting with valuable old or forgotten ones.
I am a mindfulness-based, collaborative, solution-oriented psychotherapist, life coach, and mindfulness trainer. I provide support and expertise for you in your efforts to make positive changes in your life and relationships. I can help you create satisfaction and happiness based on your goals, values, beliefs, strengths, and preferences. It's your life. You matter. I can help you improve your life by developing new ideas and skills or reconnecting with valuable old or forgotten ones.
(949) 658-3119 View (949) 658-3119
Photo of Eve Bazo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Eve Bazo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
My therapy style is eclectic but heavily rooted in Cognitive Behavioral as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapies. I thrive in the diverse environment of the Bay Area and my upbringing. I was born and immigrated from Hong Kong, China at the age of one where my first language was Cantonese. I identify as being bi-cultural and bilingual, both Chinese and American. I am a skilled and seasoned clinician with experience in medical specialties such as HIV care, oncology, neurology, and pediatrics. Your story matters, your experiences matter, and you are not alone. You can be fearless in talking about things that trouble you.
My therapy style is eclectic but heavily rooted in Cognitive Behavioral as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapies. I thrive in the diverse environment of the Bay Area and my upbringing. I was born and immigrated from Hong Kong, China at the age of one where my first language was Cantonese. I identify as being bi-cultural and bilingual, both Chinese and American. I am a skilled and seasoned clinician with experience in medical specialties such as HIV care, oncology, neurology, and pediatrics. Your story matters, your experiences matter, and you are not alone. You can be fearless in talking about things that trouble you.
(949) 386-1508 View (949) 386-1508
Photo of Alexander Goitein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Alexander Goitein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I have been working with families and individuals over the past ten years to navigate mental and behavioral health challenges. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, suicidality, Autism spectrum, attention difficulties, executive functioning difficulties, gender identity, and much more. I believe that it is important to be eclectic but selective, meaning, having knowledge of many different modalities of therapy, but understanding which one would work best for each situation. The basis of therapy will be a trusting, non-judgmental relationship where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself.
I have been working with families and individuals over the past ten years to navigate mental and behavioral health challenges. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, suicidality, Autism spectrum, attention difficulties, executive functioning difficulties, gender identity, and much more. I believe that it is important to be eclectic but selective, meaning, having knowledge of many different modalities of therapy, but understanding which one would work best for each situation. The basis of therapy will be a trusting, non-judgmental relationship where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself.
(949) 997-2985 View (949) 997-2985
Photo of Madeline Godwin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Madeline Godwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I am here to help you embody a way of being that you are nurtured by. Pain and loss are a part of life and my work gives you a space to share and process your story, make meaning in the face of suffering, and move towards healing and growth. We all get stuck, in overwhelming emotions, unwanted behaviors, and destructive patterns in relationships.
I am here to help you embody a way of being that you are nurtured by. Pain and loss are a part of life and my work gives you a space to share and process your story, make meaning in the face of suffering, and move towards healing and growth. We all get stuck, in overwhelming emotions, unwanted behaviors, and destructive patterns in relationships.
(949) 998-3534 View (949) 998-3534
Photo of Sarah Munoz, Psychologist in 92626, CA
Sarah Munoz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I have 15 years of experience in educational and community settings. I have worked extensively with adults and families presenting with a wide variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and substance use. I am a strong advocate of all aspects of positive psychology, including mindfulness and health psychology, and believe that life enrichment is an integral part of the therapeutic process.
I have 15 years of experience in educational and community settings. I have worked extensively with adults and families presenting with a wide variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and substance use. I am a strong advocate of all aspects of positive psychology, including mindfulness and health psychology, and believe that life enrichment is an integral part of the therapeutic process.
(949) 710-5354 View (949) 710-5354
Photo of Joanie Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Joanie Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Hi I'm Joanie Santos, LCSW. I love working with teens, young adults and their parents. I like to start by getting to know you and what you want to be different so you can feel better and begin living your best life. I have worked well with teens, young adults and mid-life adults as well as groups. I tend to focus on resolving depressive and anxiety symptoms and overcoming ADHD obstacles, if that's something you may be struggling with.
Hi I'm Joanie Santos, LCSW. I love working with teens, young adults and their parents. I like to start by getting to know you and what you want to be different so you can feel better and begin living your best life. I have worked well with teens, young adults and mid-life adults as well as groups. I tend to focus on resolving depressive and anxiety symptoms and overcoming ADHD obstacles, if that's something you may be struggling with.
(916) 398-2394 View (916) 398-2394
Photo of Valerie Murphy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Valerie Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
You may be getting sick of trying so hard and never feeling like you are enough. Maybe you are drowning in self-doubt and criticism. When the ANXIETY of failing or being rejected becomes your main motivation, it’s time for a new way of being in the world. After working together, my clients are able to enjoy the process of growing, connecting, and achieving. Clients start to feel pulled towards their goals, rather than pushed by fear.
You may be getting sick of trying so hard and never feeling like you are enough. Maybe you are drowning in self-doubt and criticism. When the ANXIETY of failing or being rejected becomes your main motivation, it’s time for a new way of being in the world. After working together, my clients are able to enjoy the process of growing, connecting, and achieving. Clients start to feel pulled towards their goals, rather than pushed by fear.
(424) 500-3220 View (424) 500-3220
Photo of Charmayne Bowens, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Charmayne Bowens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I believe in meeting the client where they are. It is essential to take time to develop a therapeutic relationship because our relationship will be the foundation of our work together. We will start our journey with an assessment and learning new coping skills that will increase positive outcomes.
I believe in meeting the client where they are. It is essential to take time to develop a therapeutic relationship because our relationship will be the foundation of our work together. We will start our journey with an assessment and learning new coping skills that will increase positive outcomes.
(510) 272-7401 View (510) 272-7401
Photo of Catherine Speckmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Catherine Speckmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My name is Catherine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist with a solid background working with clients that are experiencing Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Grief Issues. I accept clients at all stages of the lifespan from 12 and up. My approach is client-centered and focused on empowerment. I use a strength-based philosophy and feel that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies to improve coping strategies. I meet my clients where they are and assist them to get to where they want to be.
My name is Catherine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist with a solid background working with clients that are experiencing Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Grief Issues. I accept clients at all stages of the lifespan from 12 and up. My approach is client-centered and focused on empowerment. I use a strength-based philosophy and feel that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies to improve coping strategies. I meet my clients where they are and assist them to get to where they want to be.
(323) 529-0964 View (323) 529-0964
Motivational Interviewing Therapists

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.