Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Pacifica, CA

Photo of Carol Bernstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Carol Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
Carol Bernstein, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) My therapeutic approach is infused with a passion for creating and providing open and interactive dialogue, empowering adults of all ages to meet life's problems, transitions, and tough decisions with greater confidence and awareness. Utilizing techniques from evidence-based Cognitive-Behavioral, short-term problem-solving therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices.
Carol Bernstein, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) My therapeutic approach is infused with a passion for creating and providing open and interactive dialogue, empowering adults of all ages to meet life's problems, transitions, and tough decisions with greater confidence and awareness. Utilizing techniques from evidence-based Cognitive-Behavioral, short-term problem-solving therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices.
(415) 993-6329 View (415) 993-6329
Ray Simnegar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
I have been offering psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families for the past 27 years. I would particularly like to work with couples, whether it is in the very beginning of the relationship to check for compatibility, during the relationship to deal with problems that arise, or working on amicable separation. I offer conflict resolution to individual, couples and families. I am also trained in divorce mediation to work on uncontested divorce where we can create a win/win situation for both parties. All the work can be done in a few sessions and this could save you legal fees that can run into tens of thousands of dollars.
I have been offering psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families for the past 27 years. I would particularly like to work with couples, whether it is in the very beginning of the relationship to check for compatibility, during the relationship to deal with problems that arise, or working on amicable separation. I offer conflict resolution to individual, couples and families. I am also trained in divorce mediation to work on uncontested divorce where we can create a win/win situation for both parties. All the work can be done in a few sessions and this could save you legal fees that can run into tens of thousands of dollars.
(415) 658-9929 View (415) 658-9929
Photo of Annette M Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Annette M Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
I am now accepting new clients. I work with clients to explore past experiences and life transitions that are affecting their lives. Through weekly sessions, we will work through self exploration, personal concerns and life challenges. We will explore circumstances that can be changed, those that cannot be changed, and how to discern the difference. We will also discuss and practice various coping mechanisms that can help clients improve their lives. Therapy is a gift to yourself!
I am now accepting new clients. I work with clients to explore past experiences and life transitions that are affecting their lives. Through weekly sessions, we will work through self exploration, personal concerns and life challenges. We will explore circumstances that can be changed, those that cannot be changed, and how to discern the difference. We will also discuss and practice various coping mechanisms that can help clients improve their lives. Therapy is a gift to yourself!
(415) 236-3998 View (415) 236-3998
Photo of Orneya Bilal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Orneya Bilal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
Hello, I am a License Clinical Social worker who enjoys supporting clients through difficult times. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to receive tools to manage their mental health in order to experience healing and peace of mind. My client experience includes behavioral intervention with children on the spectrum and with adults experiencing loss, life-changing events, and changes in the level of care as it pertains to end-of-life treatment.
Hello, I am a License Clinical Social worker who enjoys supporting clients through difficult times. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to receive tools to manage their mental health in order to experience healing and peace of mind. My client experience includes behavioral intervention with children on the spectrum and with adults experiencing loss, life-changing events, and changes in the level of care as it pertains to end-of-life treatment.
(650) 675-3965 View (650) 675-3965
Photo of Jeffrey Joseph Bruno, Psychologist in Pacifica, CA
Jeffrey Joseph Bruno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My clients seek integrative solutions to complex and distressful problems for their own or their children's thoughts, emotions, and bodily experiences. While talk-based therapies are helpful, a relational approach may not be enough to solve acute or chronic mental health challenges. Yet, anxiety, depression, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, or developmental-learning disabilities often respond to personalized and holistic mind-body approaches. My ideal client is looking for more than an expert to talk with about their challenges or symptoms. They are open to exploring new methods and strategies to beneficially transform their life.
My clients seek integrative solutions to complex and distressful problems for their own or their children's thoughts, emotions, and bodily experiences. While talk-based therapies are helpful, a relational approach may not be enough to solve acute or chronic mental health challenges. Yet, anxiety, depression, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, or developmental-learning disabilities often respond to personalized and holistic mind-body approaches. My ideal client is looking for more than an expert to talk with about their challenges or symptoms. They are open to exploring new methods and strategies to beneficially transform their life.
(650) 675-3703 View (650) 675-3703
Photo of Samantha Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Samantha Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
I recognize the courage it takes to seek support in your life journey. I strive to provide a non-judgmental and safe place for individuals as growth can begin where it feels safe. I am compassionate in helping my clients define, identify, and practice self-compassion along their journey. Together, we can identify and process areas of discomfort, practice self-regulation and coping skills, and reframe negative thought patterns.
I recognize the courage it takes to seek support in your life journey. I strive to provide a non-judgmental and safe place for individuals as growth can begin where it feels safe. I am compassionate in helping my clients define, identify, and practice self-compassion along their journey. Together, we can identify and process areas of discomfort, practice self-regulation and coping skills, and reframe negative thought patterns.
(650) 675-2174 View (650) 675-2174
Photo of Victoria Holley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Victoria Holley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Victoria! My focus is working with children ages 6+, adolescents, teenagers and women - specifically moms and moms of multiples. I help with a variety of issues, primarily anxiety, social anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and those struggling with finding or rediscovering identity and authenticity. I believe humans strive to be the best they can be, and are always on the path to self-actualization. You are the expert in your life, but sometimes there is a disconnect between where you are and where you want to be. I will help guide you to get there and together, we will work towards your goals.
Hi, I'm Victoria! My focus is working with children ages 6+, adolescents, teenagers and women - specifically moms and moms of multiples. I help with a variety of issues, primarily anxiety, social anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and those struggling with finding or rediscovering identity and authenticity. I believe humans strive to be the best they can be, and are always on the path to self-actualization. You are the expert in your life, but sometimes there is a disconnect between where you are and where you want to be. I will help guide you to get there and together, we will work towards your goals.
(650) 582-2740 View (650) 582-2740
Photo of David Shoup, Psychologist in Pacifica, CA
David Shoup
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044  (Online Only)
Do you work hard to appear confident, professional, and together on the outside, while feeling anything but inside? Perhaps you are frequently anxious or find that problems like ADHD, learning differences or relationship struggles are holding you back. Many talented professionals see the life they want but can’t seem to find their way. If you’re experiencing setbacks and frustrations, you don’t have to go it alone. Sometimes you need an outside person who can help you clear the obstacles within yourself so that you can fulfill your potential.
Do you work hard to appear confident, professional, and together on the outside, while feeling anything but inside? Perhaps you are frequently anxious or find that problems like ADHD, learning differences or relationship struggles are holding you back. Many talented professionals see the life they want but can’t seem to find their way. If you’re experiencing setbacks and frustrations, you don’t have to go it alone. Sometimes you need an outside person who can help you clear the obstacles within yourself so that you can fulfill your potential.
(650) 278-5217 View (650) 278-5217
Photo of Matthew T Daues, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Matthew T Daues
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with anxiety and depression and managing relationship issues. Clients often describe my style as laid-back, personable and engaging. Life is challenging at times. Let's have a conversation about what you are going through and see how our discussions might help you! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 25 years.
I specialize in helping people with anxiety and depression and managing relationship issues. Clients often describe my style as laid-back, personable and engaging. Life is challenging at times. Let's have a conversation about what you are going through and see how our discussions might help you! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 25 years.
(562) 573-7102 View (562) 573-7102
Photo of Christina Marie Balistreri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Christina Marie Balistreri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
I have worked with a wide variety of clients dealing with a range of symptoms. I enjoy working with different clients from adults to kids and individual, families, couples and groups and I believe we can all learn from each other. I enjoy offering my experiences and skills to help others better understand themselves and their relationships. I understand that life challenges, both big and small, can affect people's mood and productivity. I am caring, compassionate, understanding and a great listener. I provide a very non-judgmental and caring space for clients to explore the challenges they are faced with.
I have worked with a wide variety of clients dealing with a range of symptoms. I enjoy working with different clients from adults to kids and individual, families, couples and groups and I believe we can all learn from each other. I enjoy offering my experiences and skills to help others better understand themselves and their relationships. I understand that life challenges, both big and small, can affect people's mood and productivity. I am caring, compassionate, understanding and a great listener. I provide a very non-judgmental and caring space for clients to explore the challenges they are faced with.
(415) 855-7947 View (415) 855-7947
Photo of Sylvia Guzman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Sylvia Guzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My name is Sylvia Guzman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults, over the age of 18 and specialize in depression and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered therapy. I start where the client is and assist with moving forward to a happier and healthier path. I work with adults starting at age 18. I am able to assist with life stressors and inner difficulties due to past experiences. This causes much depression and anxiety. Together, the client and I identify the causes of these feelings and work together to build skills to resolve the issues and begin to move forward in life.
My name is Sylvia Guzman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults, over the age of 18 and specialize in depression and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered therapy. I start where the client is and assist with moving forward to a happier and healthier path. I work with adults starting at age 18. I am able to assist with life stressors and inner difficulties due to past experiences. This causes much depression and anxiety. Together, the client and I identify the causes of these feelings and work together to build skills to resolve the issues and begin to move forward in life.
(909) 639-6735 View (909) 639-6735
Photo of Geeta Davjani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Geeta Davjani
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
I'm Geeta Devjani, LMFT, and I'm a bilingual/bi-cultural clinician. I am able to provide clinically and culturally sensitive outpatient mental health services to adults and children. I have experience working with clients from a multi-ethnic, underserved population who present with a range of emotional and behavioral difficulties (e.g., post-traumatic stress responses, attachment difficulties, regulatory and sensory challenges, depression and anxiety). I can support you in your struggle with challenging life transitions, processing of traumatic experiences and challenges with emotional regulation.
I'm Geeta Devjani, LMFT, and I'm a bilingual/bi-cultural clinician. I am able to provide clinically and culturally sensitive outpatient mental health services to adults and children. I have experience working with clients from a multi-ethnic, underserved population who present with a range of emotional and behavioral difficulties (e.g., post-traumatic stress responses, attachment difficulties, regulatory and sensory challenges, depression and anxiety). I can support you in your struggle with challenging life transitions, processing of traumatic experiences and challenges with emotional regulation.
(562) 632-4562 View (562) 632-4562
Photo of Claire Castle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Claire Castle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
Hello, name is Claire Castle, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in the LGBTQ+ issues, gender identity, women's issues, neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression, using Interpersonal Neurobiology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to provide my clients validation and teach them an expanded emotional vocabulary, so they can live the best version of their lives.
Hello, name is Claire Castle, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in the LGBTQ+ issues, gender identity, women's issues, neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression, using Interpersonal Neurobiology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to provide my clients validation and teach them an expanded emotional vocabulary, so they can live the best version of their lives.
(669) 291-1958 View (669) 291-1958
Photo of BluOcean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pacifica, CA
BluOcean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My approach helps people find their own way via self reflection, self care and self compassion. I have over 12 years of experience working with adults and youth dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, eating disorders, BPD. The modalities used include trauma informed CBT, EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, CBT and DBT. In my practice, I create a safe and trusting environment, providing people with the emotional support needed to overcome challenging times and make positive adjustments to be and feel your best.
My approach helps people find their own way via self reflection, self care and self compassion. I have over 12 years of experience working with adults and youth dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, eating disorders, BPD. The modalities used include trauma informed CBT, EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, CBT and DBT. In my practice, I create a safe and trusting environment, providing people with the emotional support needed to overcome challenging times and make positive adjustments to be and feel your best.
(650) 414-3250 View (650) 414-3250
Photo of Mabel Aiello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Mabel Aiello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My name is Mabel Aiello and I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who fosters and enhances my clients’ strength for a deeper and more meaningful healing process. I am here to work on what you need to heal, enhanced, or support. In my 10+ years of experience, I have found that my talents as a therapist are highlighted with high school-age youth and young adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, life transitions, social pressures, trauma, and grief.
My name is Mabel Aiello and I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who fosters and enhances my clients’ strength for a deeper and more meaningful healing process. I am here to work on what you need to heal, enhanced, or support. In my 10+ years of experience, I have found that my talents as a therapist are highlighted with high school-age youth and young adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, life transitions, social pressures, trauma, and grief.
(626) 314-5696 View (626) 314-5696
Photo of Edgar Cervantes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Edgar Cervantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My name is Edgar Cervantes, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with diverse populations including 6 months old to 92 years old struggling with anxiety, depression, and drugs addiction. I have a multidimensional approach to work with my clients. However, I am more inclined to provide services from client center and DBT approach.
My name is Edgar Cervantes, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with diverse populations including 6 months old to 92 years old struggling with anxiety, depression, and drugs addiction. I have a multidimensional approach to work with my clients. However, I am more inclined to provide services from client center and DBT approach.
(916) 735-4608 View (916) 735-4608
Photo of Liliana Cerrillo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Liliana Cerrillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
Hi! My name is Liliana Cerrillo but go by Lily. I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 7 years and in the mental health field for 11 years. I identify as bicultural and bilingual – fluent in Spanish. My goal as a therapist is to enhance the quality of life of every individual by providing client-centered and culturally responsive counseling customized to their needs. I received a certificate in Geriatrics from the Academy of Professional Excellence at San Diego State University and through my master’s program a Certificate in Latin American Family Therapy.
Hi! My name is Liliana Cerrillo but go by Lily. I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 7 years and in the mental health field for 11 years. I identify as bicultural and bilingual – fluent in Spanish. My goal as a therapist is to enhance the quality of life of every individual by providing client-centered and culturally responsive counseling customized to their needs. I received a certificate in Geriatrics from the Academy of Professional Excellence at San Diego State University and through my master’s program a Certificate in Latin American Family Therapy.
(619) 612-5249 View (619) 612-5249
Photo of Grace Anna Eidman (Currier), Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Pacifica, CA
Grace Anna Eidman (Currier)
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, #15438
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044  (Online Only)
Life can feel crazy, we can feel crazy ourselves, but you don't have to navigate it alone. I have particular experience with complex trauma, dissociation, depression, anxiety, neurodivergence, and religious trauma. After all, I've been there myself. Everyone's journey is different, yet I know from experience how hard, disorienting, and difficult it can be. Still, I believe life can be different when we travel together instead of carrying our burdens and pain alone. That's why I'm an online therapist practicing through the auspices of Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center, a nonprofit organization providing affordable counseling.
Life can feel crazy, we can feel crazy ourselves, but you don't have to navigate it alone. I have particular experience with complex trauma, dissociation, depression, anxiety, neurodivergence, and religious trauma. After all, I've been there myself. Everyone's journey is different, yet I know from experience how hard, disorienting, and difficult it can be. Still, I believe life can be different when we travel together instead of carrying our burdens and pain alone. That's why I'm an online therapist practicing through the auspices of Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center, a nonprofit organization providing affordable counseling.
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Photo of Maxwell Sleep-Frankel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pacifica, CA
Maxwell Sleep-Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
(805) 510-7694 View (805) 510-7694
Photo of Rebecca Good, Psychologist in Pacifica, CA
Rebecca Good
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
I offer *concierge therapy services* in Palo Alto, Half Moon Bay, and Piedmont Areas. I am committed to uniquely serving individuals and family systems to support clients in navigating their complex and fast-paced lives in a way that is expressly tailored to fit into your Bay Area lifestyle. I work dynamically with family members to address overarching goals from different perspectives. This allows me to focus on your needs from every angle possible. The result is comprehensive change on an individual and systematic level. I can meet online or in person with a flexible structure to meet your ever changing needs.
I offer *concierge therapy services* in Palo Alto, Half Moon Bay, and Piedmont Areas. I am committed to uniquely serving individuals and family systems to support clients in navigating their complex and fast-paced lives in a way that is expressly tailored to fit into your Bay Area lifestyle. I work dynamically with family members to address overarching goals from different perspectives. This allows me to focus on your needs from every angle possible. The result is comprehensive change on an individual and systematic level. I can meet online or in person with a flexible structure to meet your ever changing needs.
(510) 775-6818 View (510) 775-6818
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.