Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA

Photo of Raphael Apter, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Raphael Apter
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02134  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical practice draws heavily from strengths-based and compassion-focused approaches, including solutions-focused therapy and motivational interviewing.
How do we remain hopeful with so much uncertainty, inequality, and suffering in the world? How do we take care of ourselves while also supporting others? How do we practice compassion? How do we accept those parts of ourselves (and of others) that are so often judged by our society? These are some of the kinds of questions I often pose to clients as we explore how our individually-lived experiences, coupled with larger historic and systemic trends, often influence the ways we understand and feel about our lives. My work with clients is rooted in a greater commitment to social justice issues.
My clinical practice draws heavily from strengths-based and compassion-focused approaches, including solutions-focused therapy and motivational interviewing.
How do we remain hopeful with so much uncertainty, inequality, and suffering in the world? How do we take care of ourselves while also supporting others? How do we practice compassion? How do we accept those parts of ourselves (and of others) that are so often judged by our society? These are some of the kinds of questions I often pose to clients as we explore how our individually-lived experiences, coupled with larger historic and systemic trends, often influence the ways we understand and feel about our lives. My work with clients is rooted in a greater commitment to social justice issues.
(857) 382-4515 View (857) 382-4515
Photo of Michelle Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Michelle Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LADC, CCS, LCSW, LICSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Techniques; Motivational Interviewing; DBT informed therapy; Mindfulness; and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you feeling stressed and having trouble finding effective ways to cope? Are you worried that your mental health symptoms are impacting your ability to reach your goals or have healthy relationships? For over a decade, I have been providing counseling to help people deal more effectively with stress and mental health symptoms while moving toward what they truly value. I can help you set meaningful goals and make measurable progress toward these goals. I am comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and experiencing a variety of problems.
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Techniques; Motivational Interviewing; DBT informed therapy; Mindfulness; and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you feeling stressed and having trouble finding effective ways to cope? Are you worried that your mental health symptoms are impacting your ability to reach your goals or have healthy relationships? For over a decade, I have been providing counseling to help people deal more effectively with stress and mental health symptoms while moving toward what they truly value. I can help you set meaningful goals and make measurable progress toward these goals. I am comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and experiencing a variety of problems.
(207) 857-7819 View (207) 857-7819
Photo of Rachel Feddor, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Rachel Feddor
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I draw from evidence-based treatments, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and other mindfulness-based approaches.
Welcome! I specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, major life transitions, and navigating family conflict. Clients can expect a welcoming and non-judgmental space. We will work together on developing new coping skills, explore ideas for setting and keeping healthy boundaries, and expand on self-care.
I draw from evidence-based treatments, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and other mindfulness-based approaches.
Welcome! I specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, major life transitions, and navigating family conflict. Clients can expect a welcoming and non-judgmental space. We will work together on developing new coping skills, explore ideas for setting and keeping healthy boundaries, and expand on self-care.
(617) 539-7715 View (617) 539-7715
Photo of Laura Hickey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Laura Hickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135
I have been trained in motivational interviewing and internal family systems.
I believe that everyone has strength that comes from within, but people sometimes do not have fully-tuned skills to access their inner strength. Therapy is an opportunity to explore past events and patterns that have created self-defeating behaviors and identify skills to change inner narratives.
I have been trained in motivational interviewing and internal family systems.
I believe that everyone has strength that comes from within, but people sometimes do not have fully-tuned skills to access their inner strength. Therapy is an opportunity to explore past events and patterns that have created self-defeating behaviors and identify skills to change inner narratives.
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Photo of Joel Kouame, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Joel Kouame
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA, SIFI, CAMS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
My counseling style is based on a culmination of different interventions (cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, etc.
Let's work together to overcome the stressors that have been burdening your life. Therapy by no means solves all the issues we face day to day. What I do is help you find the strength that you have always had, but has been buried by hardship. This happens to all of us at some point, and it is at that moment that we need help. Help is the service I provide, and am happy to do so. So, let's work together to find your strength, and overcome your adversity.
My counseling style is based on a culmination of different interventions (cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, etc.
Let's work together to overcome the stressors that have been burdening your life. Therapy by no means solves all the issues we face day to day. What I do is help you find the strength that you have always had, but has been buried by hardship. This happens to all of us at some point, and it is at that moment that we need help. Help is the service I provide, and am happy to do so. So, let's work together to find your strength, and overcome your adversity.
(646) 553-1814 View (646) 553-1814
Photo of Anna Prince, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Anna Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Drawing from Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral, and Psychodynamic modalities, my approach is trauma-informed and goal oriented.
My approach is grounded in the belief that a strong, trusting, and authentic therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in the success of therapy. With each session, I strive to provide a safe space for you to process, understand, and take control over the internal and external stressors getting in the way of you living the life you want. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, I have experience providing psychotherapy in acute mental health, child welfare, and school-based systems.
Drawing from Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral, and Psychodynamic modalities, my approach is trauma-informed and goal oriented.
My approach is grounded in the belief that a strong, trusting, and authentic therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in the success of therapy. With each session, I strive to provide a safe space for you to process, understand, and take control over the internal and external stressors getting in the way of you living the life you want. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, I have experience providing psychotherapy in acute mental health, child welfare, and school-based systems.
(401) 740-3277 View (401) 740-3277
Photo of Leyla Derbali, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Leyla Derbali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02134
Leyla specializes in multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy.
Leyla Derbali is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults and couples explore their struggles as they make the changes necessary to lead more fulfilling and contented lives. Leyla specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, school issues, career issues, and significant life transitions. Leyla completed her Master's degree in Social Work at Simmons University and her Multi-Therapy Services at Harvard University.
Leyla specializes in multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy.
Leyla Derbali is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults and couples explore their struggles as they make the changes necessary to lead more fulfilling and contented lives. Leyla specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, school issues, career issues, and significant life transitions. Leyla completed her Master's degree in Social Work at Simmons University and her Multi-Therapy Services at Harvard University.
(617) 751-1186 View (617) 751-1186
Photo of Christopher Andrew, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Christopher Andrew
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02134
He utilizes relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, motivational interviewing, solution focused, and emotionally focused approaches to therapy, always maintaining the creativity, flexibility, and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual he encounters.
Christopher Andrew is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has 7 years of experience partnering with adolescents and young adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, life skills, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anger management. Christopher completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Emmanuel College and his Master of Education (MEd) in School Adjustment Counseling and Mental Health at Cambridge College.
He utilizes relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, motivational interviewing, solution focused, and emotionally focused approaches to therapy, always maintaining the creativity, flexibility, and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual he encounters.
Christopher Andrew is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has 7 years of experience partnering with adolescents and young adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, life skills, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anger management. Christopher completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Emmanuel College and his Master of Education (MEd) in School Adjustment Counseling and Mental Health at Cambridge College.
(857) 240-4980 View (857) 240-4980
Photo of Colleen Passetto; Berkshire Heart and Mind Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Colleen Passetto; Berkshire Heart and Mind Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I am trained in many approaches, including Motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, and ARC (Attachment, Regulation, and Competency).
Are you or someone you know affected by Anxiety, Depression, Compassion fatigue or struggle with weight or health issues and looking for creative ways to cope and heal? I am a Licensed Therapist who provides online individual and group therapy for children and adults in Massachusetts. With experience I have personally, as a parent and as a therapist, I can help you or your child challenge negative thoughts, explore and use strengths to overcome the speed bumps life can throw at us. I look forward to connecting with you to see if we are a good fit. Please visit my website for more information.
I am trained in many approaches, including Motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, and ARC (Attachment, Regulation, and Competency).
Are you or someone you know affected by Anxiety, Depression, Compassion fatigue or struggle with weight or health issues and looking for creative ways to cope and heal? I am a Licensed Therapist who provides online individual and group therapy for children and adults in Massachusetts. With experience I have personally, as a parent and as a therapist, I can help you or your child challenge negative thoughts, explore and use strengths to overcome the speed bumps life can throw at us. I look forward to connecting with you to see if we are a good fit. Please visit my website for more information.
(413) 553-1272 View (413) 553-1272
Photo of Rachel Holmes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Rachel Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I work with individuals to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, and more. I work with a wide range of clients, from adolescents to adults, to help them move through life's challenges with understanding, compassion, and the confidence they need. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I work with individuals to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, and more. I work with a wide range of clients, from adolescents to adults, to help them move through life's challenges with understanding, compassion, and the confidence they need. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
(617) 917-2918 View (617) 917-2918
Photo of Liza Detenber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Liza Detenber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Currently only accepting clients interested in short-term intensive EMDR therapy. In a busy, overwhelming, too-much world we all need to find ways to care for ourselves. Reaching out for therapy can be a way to carve out some space to nourish and connect to yourself. Maybe you're here because you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You know you have deep wisdom inside but the overwhelm is making it hard to access it. Perhaps there is self-judgment for feeling “too sensitive”. You’re doing big things yet you still feel small. You long to feel calm, centered, and connected. My grounded, intuitive, and collaborative approach can help!
Currently only accepting clients interested in short-term intensive EMDR therapy. In a busy, overwhelming, too-much world we all need to find ways to care for ourselves. Reaching out for therapy can be a way to carve out some space to nourish and connect to yourself. Maybe you're here because you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You know you have deep wisdom inside but the overwhelm is making it hard to access it. Perhaps there is self-judgment for feeling “too sensitive”. You’re doing big things yet you still feel small. You long to feel calm, centered, and connected. My grounded, intuitive, and collaborative approach can help!
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Photo of Jenna Hickey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Jenna Hickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I’m firmly rooted in the stance that you already have everything needed within you to build the life you want for yourself - and tapping into your own strengths and unique skill set (& maybe discovering a few new ones along the way) is the ethos of self-healing. I have an eclectic therapeutic approach that emphasizes person-centered care. I work closely with clients by collaborating on problem-solving, exploring the complexities of your inner world, building awareness to old patterns and habits, establishing goals that feel exciting to work towards, and above all, centering our work around your own inherent inner wisdom.
I’m firmly rooted in the stance that you already have everything needed within you to build the life you want for yourself - and tapping into your own strengths and unique skill set (& maybe discovering a few new ones along the way) is the ethos of self-healing. I have an eclectic therapeutic approach that emphasizes person-centered care. I work closely with clients by collaborating on problem-solving, exploring the complexities of your inner world, building awareness to old patterns and habits, establishing goals that feel exciting to work towards, and above all, centering our work around your own inherent inner wisdom.
(617) 882-7183 View (617) 882-7183
Photo of Katlyn Troisi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Katlyn Troisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
The clients I tend to work well with come in for a variety of reasons, but the common piece is their willingness to work toward their goals. This could mean increasing self-esteem, improving interpersonal relationships, and much more.
The clients I tend to work well with come in for a variety of reasons, but the common piece is their willingness to work toward their goals. This could mean increasing self-esteem, improving interpersonal relationships, and much more.
(857) 384-6267 View (857) 384-6267
Photo of Maria Swanson, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Maria Swanson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I work with a diverse age range of adults through individual therapy. Much of what I do is to help people recognize and accept their emotions, set effective boundaries, build capacity for empathy and perspective-taking, and gain insight around their relationship dynamics and identities. My approach often focuses on the influences of systems of power & control in our lives and relationships, which I find to be deeply intertwined with our experiences of mental health.
Welcome! I work with a diverse age range of adults through individual therapy. Much of what I do is to help people recognize and accept their emotions, set effective boundaries, build capacity for empathy and perspective-taking, and gain insight around their relationship dynamics and identities. My approach often focuses on the influences of systems of power & control in our lives and relationships, which I find to be deeply intertwined with our experiences of mental health.
(617) 652-5225 View (617) 652-5225
Photo of Charlette Parker-Edwards, Pre-Licensed Professional in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Charlette Parker-Edwards
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC, MA, CMFT
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist and a Black woman, my unwavering commitment lies in supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, including men, families, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am acutely aware of the unique challenges that can arise when intersecting identities converge. Through my work, I strive to provide a safe and welcoming space for those I serve to heal, grow, and empower them to overcome any obstacles that may stand in their way. Our Intake Coordinator will contact you to complete the referral. Please include your date of birth (DOB) and insurance card number to expedite the process.
As a therapist and a Black woman, my unwavering commitment lies in supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, including men, families, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am acutely aware of the unique challenges that can arise when intersecting identities converge. Through my work, I strive to provide a safe and welcoming space for those I serve to heal, grow, and empower them to overcome any obstacles that may stand in their way. Our Intake Coordinator will contact you to complete the referral. Please include your date of birth (DOB) and insurance card number to expedite the process.
(617) 915-4586 View (617) 915-4586
Photo of Stephan Salmon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Stephan Salmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02134  (Online Only)
Have you found yourself spiraling lately in anxieties, doubts, &/or regret?: "I'm worried that things won't work out," "I feel overwhelmed," "Why do I sometimes avoid doing things that I know are good & healthy for me?" "I can't seem to find the motivation to do much of anything these days," "I'm tired," "There must be something wrong with me," "Will I ever be able to change & improve my situation?" "Can talking to a professional actually help?" Feeling stuck in these loops of anxieties & doubts can often feel exhausting, discouraging, & isolating.
Have you found yourself spiraling lately in anxieties, doubts, &/or regret?: "I'm worried that things won't work out," "I feel overwhelmed," "Why do I sometimes avoid doing things that I know are good & healthy for me?" "I can't seem to find the motivation to do much of anything these days," "I'm tired," "There must be something wrong with me," "Will I ever be able to change & improve my situation?" "Can talking to a professional actually help?" Feeling stuck in these loops of anxieties & doubts can often feel exhausting, discouraging, & isolating.
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Photo of Tyler Rubin, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Tyler Rubin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone deserves a life that they’re proud of and dare I say excited for–even you. If your life isn’t what you thought it’d be, if you have challenges you’re struggling to overcome, if you’re not adjusting the way you thought you'd be, or if you're just not satisfied and want more from your life, you’re not alone and getting support is completely okay. While finding and working with a therapist can seem daunting, the therapy itself doesn't have to be. Sometimes it can be fun and restoring, and yes, at other times it can feel vulnerable. Along the way, we'll find what works best, and I promise to go at your pace.
Everyone deserves a life that they’re proud of and dare I say excited for–even you. If your life isn’t what you thought it’d be, if you have challenges you’re struggling to overcome, if you’re not adjusting the way you thought you'd be, or if you're just not satisfied and want more from your life, you’re not alone and getting support is completely okay. While finding and working with a therapist can seem daunting, the therapy itself doesn't have to be. Sometimes it can be fun and restoring, and yes, at other times it can feel vulnerable. Along the way, we'll find what works best, and I promise to go at your pace.
(617) 675-5948 View (617) 675-5948
Photo of Lily Meller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Lily Meller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02134  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Lily Meller, and I'm a board-certified clinical psychotherapist in CA and MA specializing in teletherapy for individuals experiencing anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions and the stress of medical diagnoses. As I work with clients who are anxious or engage in rigid thinking, I strive to grow a capacity for openness, curiosity, calm and joy. I have extensive experience in psychodynamic psychotherapy, which considers the roots of our emotions and how we may engage in patterns that don’t serve us; cognitive-behavioral therapy, which provides tools to use in everyday life; and mindfulness to experience life more fully.
Hi, I’m Lily Meller, and I'm a board-certified clinical psychotherapist in CA and MA specializing in teletherapy for individuals experiencing anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions and the stress of medical diagnoses. As I work with clients who are anxious or engage in rigid thinking, I strive to grow a capacity for openness, curiosity, calm and joy. I have extensive experience in psychodynamic psychotherapy, which considers the roots of our emotions and how we may engage in patterns that don’t serve us; cognitive-behavioral therapy, which provides tools to use in everyday life; and mindfulness to experience life more fully.
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Photo of Isabel Monteiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Isabel Monteiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Currently NOT accepting new clients. I specialize working with adults, young adults, young professionals. I can help you work through different symptoms including anxiety, depression, and stress. I have helped many people with life adjustments, navigate the stress of work-life balance, interpersonal issues, family conflicts, college stress (Life in general!). To me, success looks like creating realistic goals that are achievable. My ideal client is highly motivated for change, so if any of this sounds like I am talking directly to you- bring me your story and let’s process who you are and who you want to be!
Currently NOT accepting new clients. I specialize working with adults, young adults, young professionals. I can help you work through different symptoms including anxiety, depression, and stress. I have helped many people with life adjustments, navigate the stress of work-life balance, interpersonal issues, family conflicts, college stress (Life in general!). To me, success looks like creating realistic goals that are achievable. My ideal client is highly motivated for change, so if any of this sounds like I am talking directly to you- bring me your story and let’s process who you are and who you want to be!
(781) 731-1592 View (781) 731-1592
Photo of Huan-Tang Lu, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Huan-Tang Lu
Counselor, PhD, LMHC/PC, ACS, RPT, RN
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
(617) 741-9360 View (617) 741-9360

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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.