Photo of Stacey Bankston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Stacey Bankston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCATP, CGP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Waitlist for new clients
Our thoughts, emotions and actions are all connected. During periods of high stress, negative thoughts and overwhelming emotion can cause dysfunction in our daily lives. Therapy can support you in reframing negative thoughts, so you can better manage your emotional experience and thus, change harmful actions toward yourself and others. My experience includes working with adolescents, teens, families and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, eating disorders, opposition, relationship and behavioral problems. I believe that therapy is a collaborative partnership between the client and therapist.
Our thoughts, emotions and actions are all connected. During periods of high stress, negative thoughts and overwhelming emotion can cause dysfunction in our daily lives. Therapy can support you in reframing negative thoughts, so you can better manage your emotional experience and thus, change harmful actions toward yourself and others. My experience includes working with adolescents, teens, families and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, eating disorders, opposition, relationship and behavioral problems. I believe that therapy is a collaborative partnership between the client and therapist.
(925) 275-5919 View (925) 275-5919
Photo of Charlotte Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Charlotte Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, abuse, have ADHD, or are navigating life transitions and intense personal relationships. The majority of my clients have experienced a recent traumatic event, childhood trauma or abuse, sexual trauma, intense or abusive relationships, substance use, medical trauma, combat trauma, and life impacted by the military. I utilize EMDR among other evidence based and trauma informed therapy modalities. I prioritize a very client centered, and individualized approach to therapy. I love working with clients who want to go deep or dig into solution focused work.
I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, abuse, have ADHD, or are navigating life transitions and intense personal relationships. The majority of my clients have experienced a recent traumatic event, childhood trauma or abuse, sexual trauma, intense or abusive relationships, substance use, medical trauma, combat trauma, and life impacted by the military. I utilize EMDR among other evidence based and trauma informed therapy modalities. I prioritize a very client centered, and individualized approach to therapy. I love working with clients who want to go deep or dig into solution focused work.
(530) 212-7053 View (530) 212-7053
Photo of Kira Monterrey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Kira Monterrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
One of the most important lessons I have learned as a therapist is that therapy requires more than a one size fits all approach. I treat every person as an individual. I lean on my years of experience and use a multitude of treatment modalities to treat your individual needs. We can work together to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. I have treated individuals with a variety of issues, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, dissociative identity disorder, substance abuse disorders, anger, and more. I have also helped families and couples achieve harmony and improve their relationships and communication.
One of the most important lessons I have learned as a therapist is that therapy requires more than a one size fits all approach. I treat every person as an individual. I lean on my years of experience and use a multitude of treatment modalities to treat your individual needs. We can work together to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. I have treated individuals with a variety of issues, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, dissociative identity disorder, substance abuse disorders, anger, and more. I have also helped families and couples achieve harmony and improve their relationships and communication.
(925) 643-2034 View (925) 643-2034
Photo of Lauren Dummit, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Lauren Dummit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
(310) 895-9316 View (310) 895-9316
Photo of Catalaine Knell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Catalaine Knell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
CATALAINE KNELL LCSW #99247 - Telehealth I accept: most PPO Plans as Out-of-Network Specializations: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Family/Work Relational Issues, Anger, Grief and Loss, ADHD, Life transitions. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families, in a variety of clinical settings including the film and television industry, Hollywood community mental health, the LA LBGTQ Center, and Braille Institute. I spent many years living in France teaching at the university level. In my spare time, I enjoy my family, volunteering and am an avid movie goer.
CATALAINE KNELL LCSW #99247 - Telehealth I accept: most PPO Plans as Out-of-Network Specializations: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Family/Work Relational Issues, Anger, Grief and Loss, ADHD, Life transitions. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families, in a variety of clinical settings including the film and television industry, Hollywood community mental health, the LA LBGTQ Center, and Braille Institute. I spent many years living in France teaching at the university level. In my spare time, I enjoy my family, volunteering and am an avid movie goer.
(424) 374-3286 View (424) 374-3286
Photo of Shawna Cobabe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Shawna Cobabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
(925) 329-6259 View (925) 329-6259
Photo of Kathy Shifflett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Brentwood, CA
Kathy Shifflett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Not accepting new clients
Most of us would agree that sometimes life is just hard. It is even harder when we try to face it alone. If you're feeling overwhelmed by life right now, please know that you don't have to get through it on your own. As a therapist, I see my role as coming along side you on your journey toward healing and self discovery. I will not try to "fix" you and I do not have all of the answers. With empathy, intuition and knowledge from my own lived experience, I offer a space for you to explore where you will feel safe and heard.
Most of us would agree that sometimes life is just hard. It is even harder when we try to face it alone. If you're feeling overwhelmed by life right now, please know that you don't have to get through it on your own. As a therapist, I see my role as coming along side you on your journey toward healing and self discovery. I will not try to "fix" you and I do not have all of the answers. With empathy, intuition and knowledge from my own lived experience, I offer a space for you to explore where you will feel safe and heard.
(925) 433-7802 View (925) 433-7802
Photo of Matthew Cole, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Brentwood, CA
Matthew Cole
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Not accepting new clients
I'm a compassionate counselor specializing in trauma-focused therapy, ensuring that you receive the space you need to heal and integrate at your own pace. Using somatic and mindfulness techniques, as well as EMDR, I address the mind-body connection. In our collaborative work, we prioritize your experiences and perspectives, creating a safe space for exploration while respecting your autonomy. With a focus on the person first, I provide support for your healing and moving forward. Your needs are my priority, and I offer empathetic and inclusive care for your overall well-being.
I'm a compassionate counselor specializing in trauma-focused therapy, ensuring that you receive the space you need to heal and integrate at your own pace. Using somatic and mindfulness techniques, as well as EMDR, I address the mind-body connection. In our collaborative work, we prioritize your experiences and perspectives, creating a safe space for exploration while respecting your autonomy. With a focus on the person first, I provide support for your healing and moving forward. Your needs are my priority, and I offer empathetic and inclusive care for your overall well-being.
(424) 544-3451 View (424) 544-3451

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leslie Romero-Gallegos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Leslie Romero-Gallegos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
Hello, My name is Leslie Romero-Gallegos and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Southern California. I work with adult individuals who are struggling in many areas of their mental health.
Hello, My name is Leslie Romero-Gallegos and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Southern California. I work with adult individuals who are struggling in many areas of their mental health.
(657) 837-5888 View (657) 837-5888
Photo of Helen Lozano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Helen Lozano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
My name is Helen Lozano (LCSW 101068) and my approach to therapy is collaborative, as you are the expert on your life and my role is to assist in achieving your goals. The overarching focus of my areas of practice is to increase healing and decrease pain, hurt; this is done by addressing anxiety, depression, stress, and other underlying issues. I have typically worked with pre-adolescent, adolescent, adults, and older adults providing treatment to address anxiety, depressive, trauma, and stressor conditions.
My name is Helen Lozano (LCSW 101068) and my approach to therapy is collaborative, as you are the expert on your life and my role is to assist in achieving your goals. The overarching focus of my areas of practice is to increase healing and decrease pain, hurt; this is done by addressing anxiety, depression, stress, and other underlying issues. I have typically worked with pre-adolescent, adolescent, adults, and older adults providing treatment to address anxiety, depressive, trauma, and stressor conditions.
(916) 623-1258 View (916) 623-1258

Online Therapists

Photo of Yvette Arroyo, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Brentwood, CA
Yvette Arroyo
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Watsonville, CA 95076
My name is Yvette Angelina Arroyo and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Los Angeles, California and working with client's statewide via telehealth. I work with young adults and adults, and specialize in Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Grief and Loss, Low Self-Esteem, and with Addictions. I use a variety of therapeutic methods including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy, with a focus to provide my client's an individualized treatment based on their specific needs.
My name is Yvette Angelina Arroyo and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Los Angeles, California and working with client's statewide via telehealth. I work with young adults and adults, and specialize in Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Grief and Loss, Low Self-Esteem, and with Addictions. I use a variety of therapeutic methods including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy, with a focus to provide my client's an individualized treatment based on their specific needs.
(831) 387-4807 View (831) 387-4807
Photo of Rachel (Kyung Jin) Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Rachel (Kyung Jin) Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403  (Online Only)
From Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR) to Somatic Experiencing (SE), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, we’ll explore what resonates most with you to gain deeper insights into your challenges, strengths, and motivations.
As a caring and dedicated therapist, I’m here to provide a supportive space for you to navigate the challenges you’re facing. Whether you’re grappling with relationship difficulties, trauma, anxiety, depression, or any other issues, know that you’re not alone in this journey. In our sessions, I prioritize your unique experiences and needs, ensuring that our therapy is centered around you as an individual. Drawing from my diverse background as an immigrant and an engineer in the corporate world, I bring a unique perspective to our conversations, allowing me to better understand the complexities of the challenges you’re encountering.
From Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR) to Somatic Experiencing (SE), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, we’ll explore what resonates most with you to gain deeper insights into your challenges, strengths, and motivations.
As a caring and dedicated therapist, I’m here to provide a supportive space for you to navigate the challenges you’re facing. Whether you’re grappling with relationship difficulties, trauma, anxiety, depression, or any other issues, know that you’re not alone in this journey. In our sessions, I prioritize your unique experiences and needs, ensuring that our therapy is centered around you as an individual. Drawing from my diverse background as an immigrant and an engineer in the corporate world, I bring a unique perspective to our conversations, allowing me to better understand the complexities of the challenges you’re encountering.
(650) 684-1326 View (650) 684-1326
Photo of Brittany Woodward, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Brittany Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95120  (Online Only)
Brittany integrates evidence-based techniques including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and EMDR.
Currently has availability! Brittany Woodward, LMFT, specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults, providing individual and family therapy. With a client-centered approach, Brittany values and respects each individual's autonomy, empowering them to create positive changes in their lives. Her years of experience in high acuity programs, such as intensive outpatient treatment and partial hospitalization, have equipped her with the skills necessary to handle complex cases and provide comprehensive care.
Brittany integrates evidence-based techniques including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and EMDR.
Currently has availability! Brittany Woodward, LMFT, specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults, providing individual and family therapy. With a client-centered approach, Brittany values and respects each individual's autonomy, empowering them to create positive changes in their lives. Her years of experience in high acuity programs, such as intensive outpatient treatment and partial hospitalization, have equipped her with the skills necessary to handle complex cases and provide comprehensive care.
(408) 457-1394 View (408) 457-1394
Photo of Stacey Lynch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Stacey Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Mariposa, CA 95338
Waitlist for new clients
Psychodynamic approach providing evidenced based interventions from therapeutic modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience within diverse populations and settings including Social Services and Behavioral Health programs. Experienced in diagnosing and providing therapeutic intervention to adults, children, couples and families.
Psychodynamic approach providing evidenced based interventions from therapeutic modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience within diverse populations and settings including Social Services and Behavioral Health programs. Experienced in diagnosing and providing therapeutic intervention to adults, children, couples and families.
(209) 886-2439 View (209) 886-2439
Photo of Anicia A Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Anicia A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I use an integrative approach: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR & Attachment Focused EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic & Mindfulness.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, multicultural issues, addictions & the relationships that suffer as a result. I love helping anyone willing, to (learn to) love and honor the person they are today & recognize their story’s ending is one that they get to choose. I enjoy helping clients who found ways to manage their mental health issues in ways that are no longer serving them. My practice is a safe space and provides equality of services and care to everyone, regardless of age, gender, gender identity, race, disability, religion, or belief or sexual orientation.
I use an integrative approach: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR & Attachment Focused EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic & Mindfulness.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, multicultural issues, addictions & the relationships that suffer as a result. I love helping anyone willing, to (learn to) love and honor the person they are today & recognize their story’s ending is one that they get to choose. I enjoy helping clients who found ways to manage their mental health issues in ways that are no longer serving them. My practice is a safe space and provides equality of services and care to everyone, regardless of age, gender, gender identity, race, disability, religion, or belief or sexual orientation.
(415) 991-1428 View (415) 991-1428
Photo of Anika Harral in Brentwood, CA
Anika Harral
LCSW, Coach
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
The therapeutic approaches I often utilize include a somatic approach, DBT, Brainspotting, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, & mindfulness.
When we can find meaningful direction our world is a better place, but life can come at us unexpectedly, leaving us feeling lost, disconnected, confused and in pain. I have chosen to specialize with women because I understand the uniqueness of the issues and complexities that women face. Additionally, the power created when women support each other with honoring themselves, is limitless! I also specialize with teens in helping them with their developing sense of self, problem solving skills, coping tools, and finding their way in a complex world. It is a true honor for me to pay witness of other humans’ journeys.
The therapeutic approaches I often utilize include a somatic approach, DBT, Brainspotting, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, & mindfulness.
When we can find meaningful direction our world is a better place, but life can come at us unexpectedly, leaving us feeling lost, disconnected, confused and in pain. I have chosen to specialize with women because I understand the uniqueness of the issues and complexities that women face. Additionally, the power created when women support each other with honoring themselves, is limitless! I also specialize with teens in helping them with their developing sense of self, problem solving skills, coping tools, and finding their way in a complex world. It is a true honor for me to pay witness of other humans’ journeys.
(916) 794-9192 View (916) 794-9192
Photo of Lisa Holden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Lisa Holden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I practice an integrated, trauma-Informed approach using evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, emotional freedom technique (EFT), neurolinguistic programming (NLP), and motivational interviewing.
Life presents unexpected challenges which can cause anxiety, depression, hopelessness, difficulties with relationships and problems with self esteem. These unresolved issues can derail us with feelings of being overwhelmed. Therapy can help you learn to manage trauma in order to deal with stressors and move through challenges with confidence so you can get back on track with your life.
I practice an integrated, trauma-Informed approach using evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, emotional freedom technique (EFT), neurolinguistic programming (NLP), and motivational interviewing.
Life presents unexpected challenges which can cause anxiety, depression, hopelessness, difficulties with relationships and problems with self esteem. These unresolved issues can derail us with feelings of being overwhelmed. Therapy can help you learn to manage trauma in order to deal with stressors and move through challenges with confidence so you can get back on track with your life.
(831) 387-6950 View (831) 387-6950
Photo of Olivia Donnini, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Brentwood, CA
Olivia Donnini
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94604  (Online Only)
I frequently pull from motivational interviewing, solutions-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and somatic attachment therapy.
Folks reach out because there is something they want to shift in their life and they need some support in making the changes they wish to see. Most commonly, people share with me that they seek therapy because of an increased sense of overwhelm, feelings of hopelessness, changes in social dynamics and relationships, a newfound or returned sense of hopelessness, feelings of loss or grief, and more. My role is to help tap into what you already know, identify the patterns you may want to shift, and develop a greater trust in yourself to enact change in our relationship and in the outside world as well!
I frequently pull from motivational interviewing, solutions-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and somatic attachment therapy.
Folks reach out because there is something they want to shift in their life and they need some support in making the changes they wish to see. Most commonly, people share with me that they seek therapy because of an increased sense of overwhelm, feelings of hopelessness, changes in social dynamics and relationships, a newfound or returned sense of hopelessness, feelings of loss or grief, and more. My role is to help tap into what you already know, identify the patterns you may want to shift, and develop a greater trust in yourself to enact change in our relationship and in the outside world as well!
(510) 662-0879 View (510) 662-0879
Photo of Angela Horng, Psychologist in Brentwood, CA
Angela Horng
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070  (Online Only)
I work from an attachment-focused and motivational interviewing approach, where we examine childhood experiences to better understand "stuck points" and increase motivation towards change.
I specialize in processing intergenerational trauma, untangling the complex nuances of cultural and generational differences in parent-child relationships. I am passionate about working with clients feeling motivated to develop more insight into their patterns of emotion, behavior, and relationships in order to progress towards healthier and more fulfilling patterns. I love working with adults, especially young adults, on resolving depression, anxiety, early childhood trauma, and relationship difficulties. Visit my website (www.drangelahorng.com) to learn more!
I work from an attachment-focused and motivational interviewing approach, where we examine childhood experiences to better understand "stuck points" and increase motivation towards change.
I specialize in processing intergenerational trauma, untangling the complex nuances of cultural and generational differences in parent-child relationships. I am passionate about working with clients feeling motivated to develop more insight into their patterns of emotion, behavior, and relationships in order to progress towards healthier and more fulfilling patterns. I love working with adults, especially young adults, on resolving depression, anxiety, early childhood trauma, and relationship difficulties. Visit my website (www.drangelahorng.com) to learn more!
(650) 881-2711 View (650) 881-2711
Photo of Laura Chakerian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Laura Chakerian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024  (Online Only)
Some of these approaches include mindfulness-based therapies and stress reduction, cognitive behavioral interventions, motivational interviewing, and EMDR.
I enjoy working with adults of all ages to address anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and provide compassionate guidance while navigating personal challenges. I view therapy as a collaborative process that offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into your internal and external worlds, relationships, and address your aspirations and goals. My therapeutic approach is warm, supportive, and engaging.
Some of these approaches include mindfulness-based therapies and stress reduction, cognitive behavioral interventions, motivational interviewing, and EMDR.
I enjoy working with adults of all ages to address anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and provide compassionate guidance while navigating personal challenges. I view therapy as a collaborative process that offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into your internal and external worlds, relationships, and address your aspirations and goals. My therapeutic approach is warm, supportive, and engaging.
(650) 668-5018 View (650) 668-5018
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.