Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Amador County, CA

Photo of Brenna Kantner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amador County, CA
Brenna Kantner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sutter Creek, CA 95685  (Online Only)
The most important relationship that you have is the one with yourself. Regardless of your reason for seeking support, my goal is to walk through the journey with you. Whether it be navigating relationship difficulties, trauma, anxiety, depression, or infertility, my goal is to help people grow and learn to navigate life's challenges. I have a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between mental health, relationships, and reproductive challenges. I approach my work with warmth, authenticity, and a genuine commitment to fostering positive change.
The most important relationship that you have is the one with yourself. Regardless of your reason for seeking support, my goal is to walk through the journey with you. Whether it be navigating relationship difficulties, trauma, anxiety, depression, or infertility, my goal is to help people grow and learn to navigate life's challenges. I have a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between mental health, relationships, and reproductive challenges. I approach my work with warmth, authenticity, and a genuine commitment to fostering positive change.
(209) 260-5279 View (209) 260-5279
Photo of Christy Hobgood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Christy Hobgood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, CA 95642  (Online Only)
As the owner and founder of Foundation For Hope Counseling, I am passionate about assisting in the rehabilitation of individuals and families affected by Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. I believe every person that has/had problems in this area can overcome. It simply takes someone who can show compassion and empathy, but speak the truth in love, to help. The consistency it takes to walk the individual or family through these times, is what I take pride in doing. If this sounds like you, you are not alone and there is a way out, there is help. There is an abundant life beyond what you can see, let's uncover it together.
As the owner and founder of Foundation For Hope Counseling, I am passionate about assisting in the rehabilitation of individuals and families affected by Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. I believe every person that has/had problems in this area can overcome. It simply takes someone who can show compassion and empathy, but speak the truth in love, to help. The consistency it takes to walk the individual or family through these times, is what I take pride in doing. If this sounds like you, you are not alone and there is a way out, there is help. There is an abundant life beyond what you can see, let's uncover it together.
(209) 231-4675 View (209) 231-4675
Photo of Rebecca Schimp, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Amador County, CA
Rebecca Schimp
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Jackson, CA 95642  (Online Only)
After doing some self exploration did you realize deep down you are struggling with worry, stress, low self-esteem, trauma, or just every day functioning? Do you feel out of balance and overwhelmed with work, home, or in your relationships? Then you have taken a step in the right direction. I have a passion for working with children, first responders and their families, and anyone who is ready to start making changes to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.
After doing some self exploration did you realize deep down you are struggling with worry, stress, low self-esteem, trauma, or just every day functioning? Do you feel out of balance and overwhelmed with work, home, or in your relationships? Then you have taken a step in the right direction. I have a passion for working with children, first responders and their families, and anyone who is ready to start making changes to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.
(209) 780-0539 View (209) 780-0539
Photo of Foothills Mental Health Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Foothills Mental Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, CA 95642
I am honored to offer you my experience with the fluid use of evidence-based practices and a sense of humor to help you find the skills, resources, and support systems you need to thrive. I work with unique family dynamics, trauma, social challenges, foster care & adoption issues, mood swings, dissociation, isolation, LGBTQ exploration, anxiety, depression, homelessness, stress, transitional adulthood and phase of life challenges, and more. I am a clinical social worker, fully licensed with the state of California and Nevada, with in person services in San Andreas, and virtual services available in both states.
I am honored to offer you my experience with the fluid use of evidence-based practices and a sense of humor to help you find the skills, resources, and support systems you need to thrive. I work with unique family dynamics, trauma, social challenges, foster care & adoption issues, mood swings, dissociation, isolation, LGBTQ exploration, anxiety, depression, homelessness, stress, transitional adulthood and phase of life challenges, and more. I am a clinical social worker, fully licensed with the state of California and Nevada, with in person services in San Andreas, and virtual services available in both states.
(209) 886-2870 View (209) 886-2870
Photo of Elizabeth McGregor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amador County, CA
Elizabeth McGregor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ione, CA 95640
Looking for a therapist to help you navigate moving forward with life while living with anxiety, depression, or impacts from trauma? You've come to the right place! You can expect to be listened to and respected while we work together to improve your experience in life. We will assess what's happening and set goals to get you where you want to be. No matter how far off-course you feel, there is hope to turn things around!
Looking for a therapist to help you navigate moving forward with life while living with anxiety, depression, or impacts from trauma? You've come to the right place! You can expect to be listened to and respected while we work together to improve your experience in life. We will assess what's happening and set goals to get you where you want to be. No matter how far off-course you feel, there is hope to turn things around!
(530) 491-4374 View (530) 491-4374
Sylvia Desiree Sosa Newlun
Marriage & Family Therapist, Sylvia , Newlun , LMFT
Verified Verified
Jackson, CA 95642
(209) 231-7436 View (209) 231-7436

Online Therapists

Photo of Jasmine Rollins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Jasmine Rollins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
By using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, we will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique, specific needs.
I am a Doctor of Social Work and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 9 years of professional work experience. My background involves working with anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, and difficulties with self-worth. My experience population spans with a variety of ages and cultures, including minority communities, the LGBTQ community, and alternative lifestyles. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
By using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, we will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique, specific needs.
I am a Doctor of Social Work and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 9 years of professional work experience. My background involves working with anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, and difficulties with self-worth. My experience population spans with a variety of ages and cultures, including minority communities, the LGBTQ community, and alternative lifestyles. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(415) 855-4125 View (415) 855-4125
Photo of Amina Hosaini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Amina Hosaini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95747  (Online Only)
She is trained in evidence based practices such as Motivational Interviewing (MI), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Attachment, Regulation and Competency (ARC).
Amina Hosaini is a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Amina has obtained her masters degree from University of Connecticut with a concentration in group work. Amina obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut. Amina has experience working with various population such as adults, youth and children. Amina has experience working with high risk children who receive special education in a clinical day school. Amina works with 3-15 years of age of varying academic levels, learning abilities, and behavioral and emotional issues.
She is trained in evidence based practices such as Motivational Interviewing (MI), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Attachment, Regulation and Competency (ARC).
Amina Hosaini is a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Amina has obtained her masters degree from University of Connecticut with a concentration in group work. Amina obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut. Amina has experience working with various population such as adults, youth and children. Amina has experience working with high risk children who receive special education in a clinical day school. Amina works with 3-15 years of age of varying academic levels, learning abilities, and behavioral and emotional issues.
(860) 782-6459 View (860) 782-6459
Photo of Your Pace Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Your Pace Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I draw most from Motivational Interviewing, EFT, and Narrative Therapy.
My approach is collaborative and active. I balance making therapy challenging at times, yet playful enough so that you will want to come back. My clients say this therapy-on-the-move is easier than a traditional sit-on-a-couch scenario in which the confinement of the room can get in the way of the work. I think for some people — especially teens & young adults — the idea of sitting in a room with a therapist is antithetical to being in a space that is good for sharing tough stuff. All that said, the outdoor work is *part* of the practice, roughly 30% of our time may consist of online sessions.
I draw most from Motivational Interviewing, EFT, and Narrative Therapy.
My approach is collaborative and active. I balance making therapy challenging at times, yet playful enough so that you will want to come back. My clients say this therapy-on-the-move is easier than a traditional sit-on-a-couch scenario in which the confinement of the room can get in the way of the work. I think for some people — especially teens & young adults — the idea of sitting in a room with a therapist is antithetical to being in a space that is good for sharing tough stuff. All that said, the outdoor work is *part* of the practice, roughly 30% of our time may consist of online sessions.
(628) 257-7582 View (628) 257-7582
Photo of Stacy Richardson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amador County, CA
Stacy Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95210
I work with teens, couples, adults 18+, and older adults using approaches such as Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, structural, and narrative therapy.
My name is Stacy Richardson. I hold a Ph.D. in Psychology from North Central University as well as a master's in human services with Specialization in Marital, Couples, and Family from Capella University. I am licensed in the states of California, Hawaii, and Virginia. My clients include military members and families, LGBTQ+, marginalized populations, culture, diversity and inclusion, women’s issues, communications, and sexual disorders. I work with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, life transition, and adjustment concerns.
I work with teens, couples, adults 18+, and older adults using approaches such as Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, structural, and narrative therapy.
My name is Stacy Richardson. I hold a Ph.D. in Psychology from North Central University as well as a master's in human services with Specialization in Marital, Couples, and Family from Capella University. I am licensed in the states of California, Hawaii, and Virginia. My clients include military members and families, LGBTQ+, marginalized populations, culture, diversity and inclusion, women’s issues, communications, and sexual disorders. I work with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, life transition, and adjustment concerns.
(209) 396-8808 View (209) 396-8808
Photo of Leticia Cantor-Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Leticia Cantor-Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
My name is Leticia Cantor-Lopez. I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. My approach is client centered. My interventions include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma informed, interpersonal psychotherapy, solution focused, problem solving skills, self-regulation and mindfulness techniques, and coping techniques. My experience includes treating children, adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, adjustment, behavioral issues, relationships issues, and acute stress.
My name is Leticia Cantor-Lopez. I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. My approach is client centered. My interventions include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma informed, interpersonal psychotherapy, solution focused, problem solving skills, self-regulation and mindfulness techniques, and coping techniques. My experience includes treating children, adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, adjustment, behavioral issues, relationships issues, and acute stress.
(858) 321-8286 View (858) 321-8286
Photo of Wesley Hardcastle-Orr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Wesley Hardcastle-Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95823
Hi, there! I am Wes Hardcastle-Orr, LCSW. I provide Video Telehealth utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. Additionally, I use a strengths-based model to build upon your existing strengths. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Addictions, Trauma & LGBTQ+ issues. I have a great deal of experience working with both active duty service members and veterans as I recently left the VA.
Hi, there! I am Wes Hardcastle-Orr, LCSW. I provide Video Telehealth utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. Additionally, I use a strengths-based model to build upon your existing strengths. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Addictions, Trauma & LGBTQ+ issues. I have a great deal of experience working with both active duty service members and veterans as I recently left the VA.
(916) 702-3720 View (916) 702-3720
Photo of Kelly Shah, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amador County, CA
Kelly Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
My therapeutic approach is strongly integrative (tailored to meet the needs of every individual client) and includes a blend of Play Therapy, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy within a multicultural framework of being.
Change comes from within, my role as a therapist is to join with clients on their journey to discovering and utilizing their own resources of strength to achieve overall emotional well-being. Serving as a compassionate other, I apply myself from a mindful, strengths-based and trauma-informed lens to work with clients on developing a meaningful process of being and healing. With a passion for and dedication to fostering authentic relationships with clients and a strong belief in the powers of human resiliency, I provide a safe, open, non-judgmental space of healing.
My therapeutic approach is strongly integrative (tailored to meet the needs of every individual client) and includes a blend of Play Therapy, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy within a multicultural framework of being.
Change comes from within, my role as a therapist is to join with clients on their journey to discovering and utilizing their own resources of strength to achieve overall emotional well-being. Serving as a compassionate other, I apply myself from a mindful, strengths-based and trauma-informed lens to work with clients on developing a meaningful process of being and healing. With a passion for and dedication to fostering authentic relationships with clients and a strong belief in the powers of human resiliency, I provide a safe, open, non-judgmental space of healing.
(530) 994-6428 View (530) 994-6428
Photo of Christine Evensen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amador County, CA
Christine Evensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sonoma, CA 95476
Hi, my name is Chris Evensen, LMFT license 50460 working in Telehealth, statewide in California. I work with adults, and I primarily use a Humanistic approach to therapy with the goal of helping my clients increase their coping skills while letting go of negative self-beliefs and patterns of behavior that prevent them from living their lives to the fullest. My approach to therapy is client driven. I listen carefully and encourage my clients to tell me what they need from therapy and collaboratively we work towards meeting those needs. I use CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness as well as Rational Emotive Therapy.
Hi, my name is Chris Evensen, LMFT license 50460 working in Telehealth, statewide in California. I work with adults, and I primarily use a Humanistic approach to therapy with the goal of helping my clients increase their coping skills while letting go of negative self-beliefs and patterns of behavior that prevent them from living their lives to the fullest. My approach to therapy is client driven. I listen carefully and encourage my clients to tell me what they need from therapy and collaboratively we work towards meeting those needs. I use CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness as well as Rational Emotive Therapy.
(408) 443-2077 View (408) 443-2077
Photo of Chloe Lucas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amador County, CA
Chloe Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I use Motivational Interviewing almost always to start and incorporate my other specialties depending on the client's need.
I am Chloe Lucas, LMFT. I've been a therapist for just under 10 years now. My personality has been described as direct, curious, and grounding. My practice focuses on trauma work, teens, adult individuals, and parenting. My training is rooted in spirituality as an important part of the whole self. I see therapy as an important tool for existential growth. Our culture doesn't make enough space for emotional expression and introspection. Therapy is a unique relationship that allows for the practice of emotional intimacy such that we may become more attune and connected to ourselves and others.
I use Motivational Interviewing almost always to start and incorporate my other specialties depending on the client's need.
I am Chloe Lucas, LMFT. I've been a therapist for just under 10 years now. My personality has been described as direct, curious, and grounding. My practice focuses on trauma work, teens, adult individuals, and parenting. My training is rooted in spirituality as an important part of the whole self. I see therapy as an important tool for existential growth. Our culture doesn't make enough space for emotional expression and introspection. Therapy is a unique relationship that allows for the practice of emotional intimacy such that we may become more attune and connected to ourselves and others.
(925) 667-3498 View (925) 667-3498
Photo of Susan Bolea, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amador County, CA
Susan Bolea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703
Treatment includes: DBT, CBT, Attachment, EMDR, Expressive Arts, Guided Meditation, Experiential, Existential/Humanistic, Metaphor, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads, with recent events or longstanding issues to sort through and understand? Are you experiencing a challenged relationship, a sadness lingering from Covid isolation, anxieties, a shake up of self esteem, or a desire to re-calibrate life/career goals? What do you want to release and what to retain as learning? I offer compassionate, supportive, resourceful, pragmatic collaboration to help you balance these awarenesses. Together, we will set achievable goals and reclaim your resources within, so that you, and your relationships can move forward in a positive way.
Treatment includes: DBT, CBT, Attachment, EMDR, Expressive Arts, Guided Meditation, Experiential, Existential/Humanistic, Metaphor, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads, with recent events or longstanding issues to sort through and understand? Are you experiencing a challenged relationship, a sadness lingering from Covid isolation, anxieties, a shake up of self esteem, or a desire to re-calibrate life/career goals? What do you want to release and what to retain as learning? I offer compassionate, supportive, resourceful, pragmatic collaboration to help you balance these awarenesses. Together, we will set achievable goals and reclaim your resources within, so that you, and your relationships can move forward in a positive way.
(341) 444-2172 View (341) 444-2172
Photo of Marion Kvasnicka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Marion Kvasnicka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94544
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 Rachael Cresci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Rachael Cresci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94536
I will use different therapeutic modalities to help you identify what you need, where you want to go, and how to get there! I use motivational interviewing, client-centered, behavioral, and mindfulness interventions.
Hi, I'm Dr. Rachael Cresci. I am a licensed clinical social worker and a Doctor of Behavioral Health. I am interested in getting you to where you want be as soon as possible! I specialize in evidence-based practices. You identify the goals and I will use interventions that will match your needs and get you to feel better soon. I've worked with clients with various conditions and challenges over the years. I'm comfortable treating clients with complex medical challenges, addiction, mood disorders.
I will use different therapeutic modalities to help you identify what you need, where you want to go, and how to get there! I use motivational interviewing, client-centered, behavioral, and mindfulness interventions.
Hi, I'm Dr. Rachael Cresci. I am a licensed clinical social worker and a Doctor of Behavioral Health. I am interested in getting you to where you want be as soon as possible! I specialize in evidence-based practices. You identify the goals and I will use interventions that will match your needs and get you to feel better soon. I've worked with clients with various conditions and challenges over the years. I'm comfortable treating clients with complex medical challenges, addiction, mood disorders.
(559) 657-6810 View (559) 657-6810
Photo of Sonia Kakkar, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Amador County, CA
Sonia Kakkar
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I utilize an integrative approach in my practice, which includes CBT, DBT, strengths based, motivational interviewing and talk therapy.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I have an extensive background working with individuals who are navigating symptoms of complex trauma, anxiety and depression. I have experience with supporting youth around managing suicidal ideation and healing from ruptures in attachments. I utilize evidenced based practices to help you explore your thoughts, behaviors and gain valuable insights into patterns to impact positive change. My approach is client centered and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families.
I utilize an integrative approach in my practice, which includes CBT, DBT, strengths based, motivational interviewing and talk therapy.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I have an extensive background working with individuals who are navigating symptoms of complex trauma, anxiety and depression. I have experience with supporting youth around managing suicidal ideation and healing from ruptures in attachments. I utilize evidenced based practices to help you explore your thoughts, behaviors and gain valuable insights into patterns to impact positive change. My approach is client centered and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families.
(925) 275-5836 View (925) 275-5836
Photo of Alicia Gilliam, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amador County, CA
Alicia Gilliam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825  (Online Only)
I'm strength based, client centered and trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy/Trauma Focused (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Mindfulness.
It takes a lot of courage to begin therapy. Thank you for visiting my profile as you begin or resume your healing journey. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and am passionate about helping others take courageous steps to process life’s losses, uncertainties and struggles. Depression, anxiety and trauma doesn’t have to define you, the quality of your relationships or future. I’m here to offer you a safe, inclusive and respectful place of support and encouragement in your path forward.
I'm strength based, client centered and trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy/Trauma Focused (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Mindfulness.
It takes a lot of courage to begin therapy. Thank you for visiting my profile as you begin or resume your healing journey. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and am passionate about helping others take courageous steps to process life’s losses, uncertainties and struggles. Depression, anxiety and trauma doesn’t have to define you, the quality of your relationships or future. I’m here to offer you a safe, inclusive and respectful place of support and encouragement in your path forward.
(279) 972-9394 View (279) 972-9394

See more therapy options for Amador County

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.