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 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 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 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 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 Donna Brunetti, Licensed Professional Counselor in 92626, CA
Donna Brunetti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Well versed in CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Anger Management.
Intentional Living is to live on purpose and with choice. The Point of Power is in the Now! We have the power to change problematic issues by recognizing and challenging troublesome thoughts. Intentional Living is what we deserve. No one should struggle with life dictating their path or their happiness. The truth is the things within your control are the thoughts that cause you worry, fear, anxiety, and low moods. These feelings often result in difficulties that disrupt our lives. I can show you how to recognize/change thoughts or use EMDR to process maladaptively stored memories. The choice is yours. Live with intention today!
Well versed in CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Anger Management.
Intentional Living is to live on purpose and with choice. The Point of Power is in the Now! We have the power to change problematic issues by recognizing and challenging troublesome thoughts. Intentional Living is what we deserve. No one should struggle with life dictating their path or their happiness. The truth is the things within your control are the thoughts that cause you worry, fear, anxiety, and low moods. These feelings often result in difficulties that disrupt our lives. I can show you how to recognize/change thoughts or use EMDR to process maladaptively stored memories. The choice is yours. Live with intention today!
(843) 936-0456 View (843) 936-0456
Photo of Jennifer Reider, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in 92626, CA
Jennifer Reider
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, PPS
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Drawing on my background in school settings, I offer expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
As a clinical counselor, my mission is to assist individuals in navigating the intricate landscape of their minds. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, feeling the weight of burnout, processing the impact of trauma, or managing the challenges of learning differences, know that you're not alone.
Drawing on my background in school settings, I offer expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
As a clinical counselor, my mission is to assist individuals in navigating the intricate landscape of their minds. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, feeling the weight of burnout, processing the impact of trauma, or managing the challenges of learning differences, know that you're not alone.
(949) 787-3571 View (949) 787-3571
Photo of Valerie Grijalva, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92626, CA
Valerie Grijalva
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I also use motivational interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral techniques to help clients pin point goals for therapy and integrate change they want to see.
When life becomes more challenging than we anticipate, finding support shouldn't feel like a dating task. That's why I'm here to join you in finding direction and hope. I help students/young adults wrestling with the anxiety that comes with life transitions. I support working professionals in managing stress and burnout. I provide a space for women to explore their worries and develop healthier relationships. As a multi-ethnic woman, I understand the tension of balancing one's identity and needs with their roles and responsibilities. I also value incorporating one's faith into exploring inner-conflicts and find self-compassion.
I also use motivational interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral techniques to help clients pin point goals for therapy and integrate change they want to see.
When life becomes more challenging than we anticipate, finding support shouldn't feel like a dating task. That's why I'm here to join you in finding direction and hope. I help students/young adults wrestling with the anxiety that comes with life transitions. I support working professionals in managing stress and burnout. I provide a space for women to explore their worries and develop healthier relationships. As a multi-ethnic woman, I understand the tension of balancing one's identity and needs with their roles and responsibilities. I also value incorporating one's faith into exploring inner-conflicts and find self-compassion.
(714) 683-0263 View (714) 683-0263
Photo of Ryan Sauma, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92626, CA
Ryan Sauma
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Accepting new clients! Life's journey is a remarkable adventure filled with unexpected challenges and pains. I work with teens, adults, and couples to alleviate depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have specialized training and experience working with substance use disorders and addiction. I recognize the allure of quick fixes that offer immediate relief but often lead away from one's true self and cherished connections. In my practice, I employ evidence-based interventions from EMDR therapy, Motivational Interviewing, family systems, and Solution-Based treatment to guide you toward lasting positive change.
Accepting new clients! Life's journey is a remarkable adventure filled with unexpected challenges and pains. I work with teens, adults, and couples to alleviate depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have specialized training and experience working with substance use disorders and addiction. I recognize the allure of quick fixes that offer immediate relief but often lead away from one's true self and cherished connections. In my practice, I employ evidence-based interventions from EMDR therapy, Motivational Interviewing, family systems, and Solution-Based treatment to guide you toward lasting positive change.
(949) 990-6734 View (949) 990-6734
Photo of Insight4Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Insight4Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Hello! I'm a licensed therapist practicing in Costa Mesa, CA, who enjoys working with clients from diverse backgrounds and with a range of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, self/family acceptance, relationship conflicts, and trauma. If you are feeling stuck and wanting to change, therapy is an option worth exploring. Let me help you improve your emotional well being, enhance your ability to engage in relationships, and empower you with the tools necessary to restore balance in your life.
Hello! I'm a licensed therapist practicing in Costa Mesa, CA, who enjoys working with clients from diverse backgrounds and with a range of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, self/family acceptance, relationship conflicts, and trauma. If you are feeling stuck and wanting to change, therapy is an option worth exploring. Let me help you improve your emotional well being, enhance your ability to engage in relationships, and empower you with the tools necessary to restore balance in your life.
(949) 438-5597 View (949) 438-5597
Photo of Brian Goldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Brian Goldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
As a dedicated clinician with extensive experience across residential, outpatient, and private practice settings, I offer a unique and comprehensive approach to therapy. I specialize in assisting adults and adolescents through a variety of challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, and life transitions. I am passionate about providing a nurturing space where those I work with can embark on a journey toward healing and discovering their authentic selves.
As a dedicated clinician with extensive experience across residential, outpatient, and private practice settings, I offer a unique and comprehensive approach to therapy. I specialize in assisting adults and adolescents through a variety of challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, and life transitions. I am passionate about providing a nurturing space where those I work with can embark on a journey toward healing and discovering their authentic selves.
(949) 899-6872 View (949) 899-6872
Photo of Kari Ann Tuggle-Nord, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Kari Ann Tuggle-Nord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RD, CHES
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Kari, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Registered Dietitian. I support individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, struggling with an eating disorder, caught in addiction, or navigating a life transition. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders and common co-occurring disorders such as OCD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and substance use. I also support people who want to improve their lives by setting healthier boundaries, building confidence, and living more aligned to their values.
Hi, I’m Kari, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Registered Dietitian. I support individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, struggling with an eating disorder, caught in addiction, or navigating a life transition. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders and common co-occurring disorders such as OCD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and substance use. I also support people who want to improve their lives by setting healthier boundaries, building confidence, and living more aligned to their values.
(657) 214-3144 View (657) 214-3144
Photo of Cyrel Tangco Pablo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Cyrel Tangco Pablo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Are you struggling in relationships or individually? Do you feel that your connections with other people can be better? Do you have a spouse, children, extended family or friends that you feel that you can have a better relationship with? Let me explore ways in which I can help you improve your relationships with others. I support individuals to identify what they want out of life, gain a clear picture, and develop a strategy to attain the desired results. My specialty is working with cultural humility, mood disorders, life changes, adults, mixed race family, adults with substance use issues, children and adults with young children.
Are you struggling in relationships or individually? Do you feel that your connections with other people can be better? Do you have a spouse, children, extended family or friends that you feel that you can have a better relationship with? Let me explore ways in which I can help you improve your relationships with others. I support individuals to identify what they want out of life, gain a clear picture, and develop a strategy to attain the desired results. My specialty is working with cultural humility, mood disorders, life changes, adults, mixed race family, adults with substance use issues, children and adults with young children.
(657) 216-6730 View (657) 216-6730
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 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 Kellie Whittaker, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Kellie Whittaker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The act of coming to therapy is a brave one, and you should commend yourself for doing it – you are taking proactive steps to create the life you want. I view therapy as an opportunity for you to evaluate the stories you and others tell about who you are, identify the storylines that are not serving you, and construct new narratives that focus on your strengths which can help you take a more active stance in your life. This process is simple but powerful, and I believe deeply that it can help all of us isolate and move past the problems that have worked their way into our lives, helping us to reclaim our power.
The act of coming to therapy is a brave one, and you should commend yourself for doing it – you are taking proactive steps to create the life you want. I view therapy as an opportunity for you to evaluate the stories you and others tell about who you are, identify the storylines that are not serving you, and construct new narratives that focus on your strengths which can help you take a more active stance in your life. This process is simple but powerful, and I believe deeply that it can help all of us isolate and move past the problems that have worked their way into our lives, helping us to reclaim our power.
(442) 245-3638 View (442) 245-3638
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 Caitlin Patla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92626, CA
Caitlin Patla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I primarily work with clients to process the emotions of daily life. I find that taking an hour to focus on yourself each week can build emotional resilience and make life a bit easier. Together with clients, I enjoy tackling the stressors of life and building a plan to navigate that stress as easily and healthily as possible, bringing about the desired outcomes you're seeking.
I primarily work with clients to process the emotions of daily life. I find that taking an hour to focus on yourself each week can build emotional resilience and make life a bit easier. Together with clients, I enjoy tackling the stressors of life and building a plan to navigate that stress as easily and healthily as possible, bringing about the desired outcomes you're seeking.
(657) 837-6079 View (657) 837-6079
Photo of Dean Marquez, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 92626, CA
Dean Marquez
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CADC II
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My passion is working with men, couples, and families. I connect well with people and have developed a strong empathic but positive attitude toward all the people I work with. My calling and passion are to help people develop a sense of hope that life could be better, and they have what it takes to make this happen. I am also certified in counseling for substance abuse.
My passion is working with men, couples, and families. I connect well with people and have developed a strong empathic but positive attitude toward all the people I work with. My calling and passion are to help people develop a sense of hope that life could be better, and they have what it takes to make this happen. I am also certified in counseling for substance abuse.
(657) 216-7188 View (657) 216-7188
Photo of Lynn Talmon, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92626, CA
Lynn Talmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
Online zoom sessions, New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individual therapy only. If life isn't how it should be, & what used to give you joy doesn't anymore, if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship, codependency, LGBTQ2+
Online zoom sessions, New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individual therapy only. If life isn't how it should be, & what used to give you joy doesn't anymore, if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship, codependency, LGBTQ2+
(949) 612-2083 View (949) 612-2083

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.