Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Bloomington, IN

Photo of William E Herrington, Counselor in Bloomington, IN
William E Herrington
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47403
I use a combination of solution focused, CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help people process how they currently feel about a previous negative experience.
My professional focus is on experiences with which we have difficulty adjusting. If you find that you have been experiencing mood swings, irritability, anxiety\fear, guilt, shame, avoiding friends and family, using drugs or alcohol, or suffering from feelings of sadness, contact me and I would be happy to talk to you about what I can offer.
I use a combination of solution focused, CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help people process how they currently feel about a previous negative experience.
My professional focus is on experiences with which we have difficulty adjusting. If you find that you have been experiencing mood swings, irritability, anxiety\fear, guilt, shame, avoiding friends and family, using drugs or alcohol, or suffering from feelings of sadness, contact me and I would be happy to talk to you about what I can offer.
(812) 994-1630 View (812) 994-1630
Photo of Leslie K Sommer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Leslie K Sommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47403  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety? Is your anxiety related to major life transitions, social situations, past trauma, academics, ADHD diagnosis-or hidden diagnosis, relationships or career decisions? I can help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with adults ages 18-35. My style is warm and directive. I use a strengths-based approach and draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Additionally, I provide career counseling for people looking to enter the workforce for the first time or for those who are in career transition.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Is your anxiety related to major life transitions, social situations, past trauma, academics, ADHD diagnosis-or hidden diagnosis, relationships or career decisions? I can help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with adults ages 18-35. My style is warm and directive. I use a strengths-based approach and draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Additionally, I provide career counseling for people looking to enter the workforce for the first time or for those who are in career transition.
(812) 203-5044 View (812) 203-5044
Photo of Rihona Bing-English, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Rihona Bing-English
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47404
Pulling from various therapeutic perspectives including Ego State Interventions, Internal Family Systems, Narrative therapy, CBT, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
Rihona Bing-English, LSW, resident therapist at Compassionate Living Now, devotes herself to creating sincere and collaborative relationships that center on each client’s unique experience. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in radical acceptance and compassion to create a therapeutic environment that welcomes clients to bring their whole selves into an empathic, and non-judgmental environment that prioritizes creating meaningful change.
Pulling from various therapeutic perspectives including Ego State Interventions, Internal Family Systems, Narrative therapy, CBT, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
Rihona Bing-English, LSW, resident therapist at Compassionate Living Now, devotes herself to creating sincere and collaborative relationships that center on each client’s unique experience. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in radical acceptance and compassion to create a therapeutic environment that welcomes clients to bring their whole selves into an empathic, and non-judgmental environment that prioritizes creating meaningful change.
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Photo of Delyn C Kazdan, Counselor in Bloomington, IN
Delyn C Kazdan
Counselor, LMHC, MS, EdS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47404  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from various schools of therapy in my practice, including CBT, narrative, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, existential, art therapy & more.
We all have trauma, obstacles, setbacks in life, or times where we don't feel our best. It can be a struggle to just get through the day. Sometimes we find that those traumas and obstacles are too big to overcome on our own, and we need help. Therapy can be an excellent place to process through and heal from trauma, gain new coping skills or improve old ones, and develop the self-awareness and insight to reach new levels of personal growth. Whether it's a struggle with a mood disorder like depression/anxiety, major life adjustments like divorce, or processing through a complex trauma history, helping others heal is what I love to do
I draw from various schools of therapy in my practice, including CBT, narrative, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, existential, art therapy & more.
We all have trauma, obstacles, setbacks in life, or times where we don't feel our best. It can be a struggle to just get through the day. Sometimes we find that those traumas and obstacles are too big to overcome on our own, and we need help. Therapy can be an excellent place to process through and heal from trauma, gain new coping skills or improve old ones, and develop the self-awareness and insight to reach new levels of personal growth. Whether it's a struggle with a mood disorder like depression/anxiety, major life adjustments like divorce, or processing through a complex trauma history, helping others heal is what I love to do
(812) 362-2206 View (812) 362-2206
Photo of Julie Quigley, Counselor in Bloomington, IN
Julie Quigley
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47405
I have already counseled my ideal client. I worked with a client who came to me in her most significant time of need. She was ready to put in work and wanted to develop. She was diagnosed with Bipolar I and had several suicide attempts. She could externalize her mania and use fitness and wellness to push through her episodes. She is happy and healthy and uses her experiences to help others. My services involve psychotherapy using techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing (MI), with a trauma-informed framework.
I have already counseled my ideal client. I worked with a client who came to me in her most significant time of need. She was ready to put in work and wanted to develop. She was diagnosed with Bipolar I and had several suicide attempts. She could externalize her mania and use fitness and wellness to push through her episodes. She is happy and healthy and uses her experiences to help others. My services involve psychotherapy using techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing (MI), with a trauma-informed framework.
(463) 252-3331 View (463) 252-3331
Photo of Jennifer Halloran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Jennifer Halloran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47404
My approach utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
My practice focuses on teenagers and young adults who struggle with anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, panic and OCD. Our initial meeting will include a phone consultation where I will work to understand what is bringing you to therapy at this time. I am currently seeing clients both in-person and virtually. My office is conveniently located in downtown Bloomington within walking distance of Indiana University.
My approach utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
My practice focuses on teenagers and young adults who struggle with anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, panic and OCD. Our initial meeting will include a phone consultation where I will work to understand what is bringing you to therapy at this time. I am currently seeing clients both in-person and virtually. My office is conveniently located in downtown Bloomington within walking distance of Indiana University.
(812) 969-1911 View (812) 969-1911
Photo of Elizabeth Cowley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Elizabeth Cowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47405
I have worked with children, adolescents, veterans and adults in many settings including inpatient and outpatient settings with high acute behaviors. I hold a Master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. I specialize in substance use counseling, and motivational interviewing. I have experience in trauma informed care, and specialize in identifying the client’s strength to become a better version of you. I have worked extensively with those experiencing anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, behavioral issues and life transitions.
I have worked with children, adolescents, veterans and adults in many settings including inpatient and outpatient settings with high acute behaviors. I hold a Master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. I specialize in substance use counseling, and motivational interviewing. I have experience in trauma informed care, and specialize in identifying the client’s strength to become a better version of you. I have worked extensively with those experiencing anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, behavioral issues and life transitions.
(219) 327-2599 View (219) 327-2599
Photo of Bradley Wantz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Bradley Wantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCAC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47401  (Online Only)
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing.
I believe people are full of inherent strengths, waiting to be unlocked. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself and accomplish your goals. By identifying your strengths, we can work together to overcome issues in your life. I don't fix people, and I don't tell them what to do. I believe in a therapeutic relationship that is built on empathy and equity. Whether you are working through a substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, relationships conflicts, grief, or low self-esteem, I'd love to be part of your healing journey.
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing.
I believe people are full of inherent strengths, waiting to be unlocked. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself and accomplish your goals. By identifying your strengths, we can work together to overcome issues in your life. I don't fix people, and I don't tell them what to do. I believe in a therapeutic relationship that is built on empathy and equity. Whether you are working through a substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, relationships conflicts, grief, or low self-esteem, I'd love to be part of your healing journey.
(317) 754-7703 View (317) 754-7703
Photo of Cali O'Connor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Cali O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47404  (Online Only)
I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC) Framework.
I'm so glad you're here. How can I help? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, dog mom, proud plant lady and crafting enthusiast with a specialty in treating trauma. Whether that be childhood trauma, "big-T trauma", or "little-t trauma", I provide a gentle, flexible and judgment-free approach. I'm committed to empowering and helping individuals navigate the ways that trauma shows up in daily life.
I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC) Framework.
I'm so glad you're here. How can I help? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, dog mom, proud plant lady and crafting enthusiast with a specialty in treating trauma. Whether that be childhood trauma, "big-T trauma", or "little-t trauma", I provide a gentle, flexible and judgment-free approach. I'm committed to empowering and helping individuals navigate the ways that trauma shows up in daily life.
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Photo of Hayley Craig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Hayley Craig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47401  (Online Only)
We will work using different techniques such as, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to get you where you want to be.
We all need someone to talk to at times, and I have dedicated my career to being that person for others. As a LCSW, I have over 6 years of experience in residential, hospital, and clinic settings. I enjoy working with teens and young adults to help with problems adjusting, behavioral concerns, relationship issues, unhealthy boundaries with family, friends and/or others, and poor self-esteem and self-worth. One of my aims is to build a compassionate and judgement-free environment for clients to open up and discuss emotions and experiences so we can collaborate to realize and accomplish goals.
We will work using different techniques such as, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to get you where you want to be.
We all need someone to talk to at times, and I have dedicated my career to being that person for others. As a LCSW, I have over 6 years of experience in residential, hospital, and clinic settings. I enjoy working with teens and young adults to help with problems adjusting, behavioral concerns, relationship issues, unhealthy boundaries with family, friends and/or others, and poor self-esteem and self-worth. One of my aims is to build a compassionate and judgement-free environment for clients to open up and discuss emotions and experiences so we can collaborate to realize and accomplish goals.
(463) 250-5659 View (463) 250-5659
Photo of Michelle Walkey-Thornburg, Mental Health Counselor in Bloomington, IN
Michelle Walkey-Thornburg
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47405
I am a licensed mental health counselor and registered art therapist. I provide therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and adults to increase self-awareness, identify personal strengths and have a more meaningful life experience. My practice is collaborative, solution-focused and utilizes evidenced-based treatment approaches including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy. Art therapy is optional and not required to participate.
I am a licensed mental health counselor and registered art therapist. I provide therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and adults to increase self-awareness, identify personal strengths and have a more meaningful life experience. My practice is collaborative, solution-focused and utilizes evidenced-based treatment approaches including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy. Art therapy is optional and not required to participate.
(317) 820-2708 View (317) 820-2708
Photo of Megan Trible, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Megan Trible
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47402  (Online Only)
I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you a young adult who wants freedom and independence, but are also unsure how to handle all of the responsibilities that come with being an “adult”? Do you feel like you should have it all figured out by now, but in reality- you have no idea what direction you life should go? Are you a young adult who has experienced childhood trauma that is impeding your growth and ability to make decisions? Welcome! I’m Megan and I’m here to help you manage the pressures from others and yourself, explore opportunities that are all around you, and help you imagine the possibilities of a future designed by you!
I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you a young adult who wants freedom and independence, but are also unsure how to handle all of the responsibilities that come with being an “adult”? Do you feel like you should have it all figured out by now, but in reality- you have no idea what direction you life should go? Are you a young adult who has experienced childhood trauma that is impeding your growth and ability to make decisions? Welcome! I’m Megan and I’m here to help you manage the pressures from others and yourself, explore opportunities that are all around you, and help you imagine the possibilities of a future designed by you!
(317) 434-3711 View (317) 434-3711
Photo of Mandy Yingzi Zhang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Mandy Yingzi Zhang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47405  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR and IFS, and utilize a wide range of other therapy approaches including Psychodynamic, CBT, Trauma-focused-CBT, ACT, Strength-based, Solution-focused, Culturally-sensitive, Evidence-based, Motivational Interviewing, Culturally-sensitive and Client-centered approaches.
I'm passionate about working with individuals to address issues such as emotional regulation, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, cultural conflict, trauma, stress management, and life transitions. As an Asian therapist, I have extensive experience working with different generations of Asian immigrants, multicultural individuals, and others in marginalized communities. I aim to bring mental health services to underserved communities in a linguistically appropriate and culturally sensitive manner. With my friendly and humble personality, I establish a compassionate, comfortable and safe space for my client to be where they are.
I specialize in EMDR and IFS, and utilize a wide range of other therapy approaches including Psychodynamic, CBT, Trauma-focused-CBT, ACT, Strength-based, Solution-focused, Culturally-sensitive, Evidence-based, Motivational Interviewing, Culturally-sensitive and Client-centered approaches.
I'm passionate about working with individuals to address issues such as emotional regulation, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, cultural conflict, trauma, stress management, and life transitions. As an Asian therapist, I have extensive experience working with different generations of Asian immigrants, multicultural individuals, and others in marginalized communities. I aim to bring mental health services to underserved communities in a linguistically appropriate and culturally sensitive manner. With my friendly and humble personality, I establish a compassionate, comfortable and safe space for my client to be where they are.
(773) 825-3167 View (773) 825-3167
Photo of Yingjia Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Yingjia Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47401  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about supporting multicultural individuals, immigrants, and other marginalized populations to deal with life challenges associated with acculturation, life transitions, and trauma. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, students, adults, and their families who have been going through life transitions and stresses together. I’m specialized in working with individuals to address depression, anxiety, ADHD, perinatal issues, grief, stress management, intergenerational conflicts, complex trauma, communication, relationship issues, etc. I incorporate multiculturalism into my practice.
I'm passionate about supporting multicultural individuals, immigrants, and other marginalized populations to deal with life challenges associated with acculturation, life transitions, and trauma. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, students, adults, and their families who have been going through life transitions and stresses together. I’m specialized in working with individuals to address depression, anxiety, ADHD, perinatal issues, grief, stress management, intergenerational conflicts, complex trauma, communication, relationship issues, etc. I incorporate multiculturalism into my practice.
(872) 266-7962 View (872) 266-7962
Photo of Sean Abraham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Sean Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47401  (Online Only)
My name is Sean Abraham and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana with a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University Bloomington. I have been in the field of social work and therapy for 4 years working with people to solve real problems in their lives. My experience includes working with those who have struggled with substance use, depression, anxiety, loss, communication problems, student life, as well as other mental health concerns. I enjoy being able to work one on one with individuals and witness the life changing journeys that everyone is capable of.
My name is Sean Abraham and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana with a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University Bloomington. I have been in the field of social work and therapy for 4 years working with people to solve real problems in their lives. My experience includes working with those who have struggled with substance use, depression, anxiety, loss, communication problems, student life, as well as other mental health concerns. I enjoy being able to work one on one with individuals and witness the life changing journeys that everyone is capable of.
(317) 647-1323 View (317) 647-1323
Photo of Paige Bemiller, Counselor in Bloomington, IN
Paige Bemiller
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47405
My ideal client is someone who wants to actively pursue new paths to find their true, healthy self. Ideally, ready to do the work. I am here to challenge cognitive distortions. I will be a partner in brainstorming issues and goals. Hard work from the client and support from an intuitive counselor will clear the path to the answers within.
My ideal client is someone who wants to actively pursue new paths to find their true, healthy self. Ideally, ready to do the work. I am here to challenge cognitive distortions. I will be a partner in brainstorming issues and goals. Hard work from the client and support from an intuitive counselor will clear the path to the answers within.
(812) 940-3989 View (812) 940-3989
Photo of Nichole Alspaugh Williams, Counselor in Bloomington, IN
Nichole Alspaugh Williams
Counselor, EdS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47401  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find happiness, meaning, and purpose in your career? Is job stress causing you to feel anxious or depressed? Perhaps you’re struggling to accept something that has changed in your work or personal life. Are you stuck in a rut at work or suffering from imposter syndrome to the point that it’s limiting you in your career? Or maybe you’re at the point that you’re ready to look for a new career. You know that something needs to change, but you're not sure what to do or how to do it. Imagine how it would feel to get past these struggles so you can learn to live a joyous and meaningful life with a career you enjoy!
Are you struggling to find happiness, meaning, and purpose in your career? Is job stress causing you to feel anxious or depressed? Perhaps you’re struggling to accept something that has changed in your work or personal life. Are you stuck in a rut at work or suffering from imposter syndrome to the point that it’s limiting you in your career? Or maybe you’re at the point that you’re ready to look for a new career. You know that something needs to change, but you're not sure what to do or how to do it. Imagine how it would feel to get past these struggles so you can learn to live a joyous and meaningful life with a career you enjoy!
(812) 646-9993 View (812) 646-9993
Photo of Jay Cimmer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bloomington, IN
Jay Cimmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47403  (Online Only)
Repeat mistakes, feel out of control, worthless, ashamed, powerless, or believe you are not good enough? You are not alone. In almost 30 years as a therapist, I’ve worked with diverse populations and a variety of symptoms, taking a holistic approach valuing the whole person integrating mind and body. Sessions are driven by you; your goals and desires. Together we will identify and work through past trauma, limiting patterns, beliefs and subsequent actions. Please contact me to see if I'm the right therapist for you. I'd like to assist on your journey to identifying and alleviating blocks to living a more fulfilling life.
Repeat mistakes, feel out of control, worthless, ashamed, powerless, or believe you are not good enough? You are not alone. In almost 30 years as a therapist, I’ve worked with diverse populations and a variety of symptoms, taking a holistic approach valuing the whole person integrating mind and body. Sessions are driven by you; your goals and desires. Together we will identify and work through past trauma, limiting patterns, beliefs and subsequent actions. Please contact me to see if I'm the right therapist for you. I'd like to assist on your journey to identifying and alleviating blocks to living a more fulfilling life.
(812) 505-2236 View (812) 505-2236
Photo of Dayana Ferrera, Counselor in Bloomington, IN
Dayana Ferrera
Counselor, LMHC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47401
My counseling approach is grounded in strengthening the client’s natural tendency towards healing, resiliency, and adaptation. I strive to empower my clients, and believe in a therapeutic relationship that is built on collaboration and trust. This allows me to provide my clients with the tools they need to manage challenges - helping them identify and implement more adaptive and healthy ways to resolve conflict and explore opportunities for growth.
My counseling approach is grounded in strengthening the client’s natural tendency towards healing, resiliency, and adaptation. I strive to empower my clients, and believe in a therapeutic relationship that is built on collaboration and trust. This allows me to provide my clients with the tools they need to manage challenges - helping them identify and implement more adaptive and healthy ways to resolve conflict and explore opportunities for growth.
(812) 203-4249 View (812) 203-4249
Photo of Muhammad Saahir, Counselor in Bloomington, IN
Muhammad Saahir
Counselor, EdS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47404  (Online Only)
The Blue Sofa Counseling Services: A place where you are welcome. An ideal client would be an individual who is willing to work on becoming critical of negative self-talk and have a willingness to become more aware of their overall thought process. Issues that I have experience of working with include, but are not limited to: depressed moods, anxiety-related​ disorders, and adjustment issues. Additionally, the ideal couple would consist of two individuals who are interested in working together on common goals to help strengthen the positive qualities within their growing relationship.
The Blue Sofa Counseling Services: A place where you are welcome. An ideal client would be an individual who is willing to work on becoming critical of negative self-talk and have a willingness to become more aware of their overall thought process. Issues that I have experience of working with include, but are not limited to: depressed moods, anxiety-related​ disorders, and adjustment issues. Additionally, the ideal couple would consist of two individuals who are interested in working together on common goals to help strengthen the positive qualities within their growing relationship.
(812) 301-8540 View (812) 301-8540

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.