Photo of Paul Tian, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Paul Tian
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Waitlist for new clients
Life's journey is filled with challenges, but within each of us lies the strength to overcome them. Whether you're navigating emotional ups and downs, healing from past hurts, or seeking personal growth, reaching out for support is a brave first step. As a therapist, my practice is rooted in the humanistic approach, which honors the holistic view of each individual. I blend a variety of evidence-based techniques tailored to your individual needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices.
Life's journey is filled with challenges, but within each of us lies the strength to overcome them. Whether you're navigating emotional ups and downs, healing from past hurts, or seeking personal growth, reaching out for support is a brave first step. As a therapist, my practice is rooted in the humanistic approach, which honors the holistic view of each individual. I blend a variety of evidence-based techniques tailored to your individual needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices.
(857) 367-1063 View (857) 367-1063
Photo of Jonathan Green, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Jonathan Green
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
A native of Massachusetts, Dr. Green is a clinical psychologist dedicated to helping clients realize the change they desire. He offers expertise in trauma-related reactions as well as a variety of other issues clients might have. These include depression, anxiety, substance use, motivation, and assertiveness. He has worked with couples since early in his graduate training. Dr. Green utilizes gold-standard, empirically supported treatments, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Motivational Interviewing.
A native of Massachusetts, Dr. Green is a clinical psychologist dedicated to helping clients realize the change they desire. He offers expertise in trauma-related reactions as well as a variety of other issues clients might have. These include depression, anxiety, substance use, motivation, and assertiveness. He has worked with couples since early in his graduate training. Dr. Green utilizes gold-standard, empirically supported treatments, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Motivational Interviewing.
(857) 362-8542 View (857) 362-8542
Photo of Sarah Carter, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Sarah Carter
Counselor, LMHC, RDT
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I utilize evidence-based, trauma informed clinical techniques including DBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and the expressive therapies to help my clients manage difficult emotions and thought patterns, improve interpersonal effectiveness, and process and integrate life experiences in order to live effectively and purposefully.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile. I provide individual therapy for young adults 18+ and adults to address: recent life transitions or loss; symptoms of anxiety and/or depression; difficulty in relationships; traumatic life events; desire to improve mindset and build positive self esteem. I have treated adults, children and adolescents in a variety of settings including The Trauma Center at JRI and Boston Children's Hospital. I also currently provide group therapy at McLean Hospital. I would be glad to assist you with your goals toward your overall health and well-being.
I utilize evidence-based, trauma informed clinical techniques including DBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and the expressive therapies to help my clients manage difficult emotions and thought patterns, improve interpersonal effectiveness, and process and integrate life experiences in order to live effectively and purposefully.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile. I provide individual therapy for young adults 18+ and adults to address: recent life transitions or loss; symptoms of anxiety and/or depression; difficulty in relationships; traumatic life events; desire to improve mindset and build positive self esteem. I have treated adults, children and adolescents in a variety of settings including The Trauma Center at JRI and Boston Children's Hospital. I also currently provide group therapy at McLean Hospital. I would be glad to assist you with your goals toward your overall health and well-being.
(857) 264-3510 View (857) 264-3510
Photo of Cassandra Xanthos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Cassandra Xanthos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Together, we will work to identify your inner strengths and resources that will aid you in self-discovery and growth. I utilize mindfulness and motivational interviewing approaches to further a client's journey towards positive change. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a relational framework and the belief that all healing takes place in the context of relationships. I focus on creating a trusting client-therapist relationship by providing a safe, supportive and encouraging space to help facilitate self-discovery and enduring change.
Together, we will work to identify your inner strengths and resources that will aid you in self-discovery and growth. I utilize mindfulness and motivational interviewing approaches to further a client's journey towards positive change. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a relational framework and the belief that all healing takes place in the context of relationships. I focus on creating a trusting client-therapist relationship by providing a safe, supportive and encouraging space to help facilitate self-discovery and enduring change.
(617) 996-7458 View (617) 996-7458
Photo of Na Lynch-Shaw, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Na Lynch-Shaw
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I am a therapist at Brookline Adult and Child Counseling. I work with children, adolescents, and adults through a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ experiences, and life transitions. I use a person-centered and strengths based approach when it comes to understanding and conceptualizing clients. I offer an integrative approach, drawing from various modalities of treatment such as narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I am a therapist at Brookline Adult and Child Counseling. I work with children, adolescents, and adults through a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ experiences, and life transitions. I use a person-centered and strengths based approach when it comes to understanding and conceptualizing clients. I offer an integrative approach, drawing from various modalities of treatment such as narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
(617) 826-8895 View (617) 826-8895
Photo of Christopher Andrew, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Christopher Andrew
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
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 Kelsey Flynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Kelsey Flynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
She practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, self-compassion techniques, motivational interviewing, and play therapy techniques.
Kelsey Flynn is a compassionate, dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over three years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. Kelsey works with individuals and families who are experiencing a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship conflicts, anger, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
She practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, self-compassion techniques, motivational interviewing, and play therapy techniques.
Kelsey Flynn is a compassionate, dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over three years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. Kelsey works with individuals and families who are experiencing a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship conflicts, anger, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
(857) 420-7040 View (857) 420-7040
Photo of Beth S. Marx, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Beth S. Marx
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
My style is open, exploratory, inquisitive, and I draw from a variety of different theoretical orientations including psychodynamic, internal family systems, sensorimotor, cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, Imago, and motivational interviewing.
The transformational “magic” in therapy occurs when an alliance develops between therapist and client—when you feel truly seen, heard, and understood. I am here to listen deeply and journey alongside you as we discover ways to help you to get beyond patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you and move into a more hopeful, satisfying, and life-affirming future. Over the years, I've worked with couples, families, and individuals to address issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, family conflict, grief/loss, trauma, school issues, sexual orientation, aging, infertility, pregnancy, and self-esteem.
My style is open, exploratory, inquisitive, and I draw from a variety of different theoretical orientations including psychodynamic, internal family systems, sensorimotor, cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, Imago, and motivational interviewing.
The transformational “magic” in therapy occurs when an alliance develops between therapist and client—when you feel truly seen, heard, and understood. I am here to listen deeply and journey alongside you as we discover ways to help you to get beyond patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you and move into a more hopeful, satisfying, and life-affirming future. Over the years, I've worked with couples, families, and individuals to address issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, family conflict, grief/loss, trauma, school issues, sexual orientation, aging, infertility, pregnancy, and self-esteem.
(617) 380-4946 View (617) 380-4946
Photo of Diana Arntz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brookline, MA
Diana Arntz
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I have expertise in a number of gold-standard, empirically supported treatments, including but not limited to: cognitive behavior therapy, prolonged exposure for PTSD, mindfulness-based stress reduction, dialectical behavior therapy, biofeedback, hypnosis, and motivational interviewing.
I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain, and insomnia. I use a warm, strengths-focused, and collaborative style and emphasize integrative, whole person care. I currently have availability for in-person appointments on Mondays and Fridays at Boston Behavioral Medicine in Brookline and also offer telehealth sessions on Wednesdays.
I have expertise in a number of gold-standard, empirically supported treatments, including but not limited to: cognitive behavior therapy, prolonged exposure for PTSD, mindfulness-based stress reduction, dialectical behavior therapy, biofeedback, hypnosis, and motivational interviewing.
I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain, and insomnia. I use a warm, strengths-focused, and collaborative style and emphasize integrative, whole person care. I currently have availability for in-person appointments on Mondays and Fridays at Boston Behavioral Medicine in Brookline and also offer telehealth sessions on Wednesdays.
(617) 431-4345 View (617) 431-4345
Photo of Jose A Soto-Ponce, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Jose A Soto-Ponce
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Approaches that I use in session include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness base therapy.
I am a counselor with more than 7 years of experience working with individuals that struggles with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger issues, PTSD and self-esteem issues. Life tends to get difficult at times, however it is important to have a person that you can talk to about those issues without being judged or misunderstood. I am here to support you in a friendly and at times humoristic manner, and safe.
Approaches that I use in session include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness base therapy.
I am a counselor with more than 7 years of experience working with individuals that struggles with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger issues, PTSD and self-esteem issues. Life tends to get difficult at times, however it is important to have a person that you can talk to about those issues without being judged or misunderstood. I am here to support you in a friendly and at times humoristic manner, and safe.
(978) 634-5592 View (978) 634-5592
Photo of Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help my clients explore their next steps and make positive changes in their lives.
Congratulations on taking this first step in reaching out for help! I have 10 years of clinical experience working in the mental health field. I am excited about helping executives and professionals navigate stressful life transitions, address interpersonal conflict, and cope with professional burnout. I empower my clients to seek meaning and fulfillment. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help my clients explore their next steps and make positive changes in their lives. I provide my clients with empathy, validation, and unconditional positive regard.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help my clients explore their next steps and make positive changes in their lives.
Congratulations on taking this first step in reaching out for help! I have 10 years of clinical experience working in the mental health field. I am excited about helping executives and professionals navigate stressful life transitions, address interpersonal conflict, and cope with professional burnout. I empower my clients to seek meaning and fulfillment. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help my clients explore their next steps and make positive changes in their lives. I provide my clients with empathy, validation, and unconditional positive regard.
(508) 978-4253 View (508) 978-4253
Photo of Esther F Kletter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Esther F Kletter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
Integrating a range of therapeutic interventions including motivational interviewing, psychodynamic and behavioral therapies supports you in all phases of your personal journey.
Would you like things to work better in your life, to feel happier and more in control? Some difficulties stem from situational and environmental factors, others are rooted in developmental issues, personality traits, mood disorders or psychosis. Life can be challenging for children and adults of all ages. Learn to identify your personal life values, thoughts and feelings. Focus on current functioning and develop improved mind-body relaxation, error-free thinking and emotion management, reflection and communication. Explore early attachments and present family and relationship dynamics. Address developmental and learning related concerns. I support medication when appropriate and welcomed by you.
Integrating a range of therapeutic interventions including motivational interviewing, psychodynamic and behavioral therapies supports you in all phases of your personal journey.
Would you like things to work better in your life, to feel happier and more in control? Some difficulties stem from situational and environmental factors, others are rooted in developmental issues, personality traits, mood disorders or psychosis. Life can be challenging for children and adults of all ages. Learn to identify your personal life values, thoughts and feelings. Focus on current functioning and develop improved mind-body relaxation, error-free thinking and emotion management, reflection and communication. Explore early attachments and present family and relationship dynamics. Address developmental and learning related concerns. I support medication when appropriate and welcomed by you.
(617) 229-5701 View (617) 229-5701
Photo of Miriam Ervin, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Miriam Ervin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
I utilized CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing, and mind body, somatic processing.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, as well as relationship and family issues. I believe that when self-awareness is paired with motivation for healthy action, individuals and families can realize their fullest potential. My approach focuses on achieving this insight and motivation through establishing trust, building positive self esteem, and teaching healthy skills for coping. I have a holistic perspective and treatment approach, and believe that all elements of health and wellness need to be addressed in order to experience balance and a fulfilling life.
I utilized CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing, and mind body, somatic processing.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, as well as relationship and family issues. I believe that when self-awareness is paired with motivation for healthy action, individuals and families can realize their fullest potential. My approach focuses on achieving this insight and motivation through establishing trust, building positive self esteem, and teaching healthy skills for coping. I have a holistic perspective and treatment approach, and believe that all elements of health and wellness need to be addressed in order to experience balance and a fulfilling life.
(617) 658-4305 View (617) 658-4305
Photo of Jacob Kilson Page, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Jacob Kilson Page
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Within the work I do I utilize relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, motivational interviewing, solution focused, and emotionally focused approaches to therapy, and always maintain the creativity, flexibility, and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual I encounter.
Life can be extremely challenging at times, and it can be even more challenging going through it on your own. My goal is to support you through the good and the bad and make life feel better than it did the day before. My name is Jacob Page, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with five years of experience working with adolescents and young adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, life skills, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anger management.
Within the work I do I utilize relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, motivational interviewing, solution focused, and emotionally focused approaches to therapy, and always maintain the creativity, flexibility, and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual I encounter.
Life can be extremely challenging at times, and it can be even more challenging going through it on your own. My goal is to support you through the good and the bad and make life feel better than it did the day before. My name is Jacob Page, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with five years of experience working with adolescents and young adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, life skills, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anger management.
(781) 303-9786 View (781) 303-9786
Photo of Elisabeth Bryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Elisabeth Bryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LICSW) experience treating adults and adolescents. I am a behaviorist at heart, although pull from my training in CBT, DBT, Exposure and Motivational Interviewing to help my client.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LICSW) experience treating adults and adolescents. I am a behaviorist at heart, although pull from my training in CBT, DBT, Exposure and Motivational Interviewing to help my client.
(857) 763-2931 View (857) 763-2931
Photo of Michael McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Michael McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02146  (Online Only)
The path to healing starts with a conscious choice to put yourself first, which is often a radical concept for the world and society that we live in. At Mystical Pathways, you will be taking this very step in your journey towards self-healing. I believe that the key to helping my client’s achieve a fully realized version of health is to take a holistic approach that incorporates mind, body, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing. I utilize a blend of trauma informed approaches, CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Solution Focused Therapy, Harm Reduction, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients uncover and achieve their wellness goals.
The path to healing starts with a conscious choice to put yourself first, which is often a radical concept for the world and society that we live in. At Mystical Pathways, you will be taking this very step in your journey towards self-healing. I believe that the key to helping my client’s achieve a fully realized version of health is to take a holistic approach that incorporates mind, body, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing. I utilize a blend of trauma informed approaches, CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Solution Focused Therapy, Harm Reduction, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients uncover and achieve their wellness goals.
(508) 687-5573 View (508) 687-5573
Photo of Kevin Wehmhoefer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Kevin Wehmhoefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Kevin Wehmhoefer, LICSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Clients come for support with a wide variety of concerns. Some have experienced a loss or trauma in their lives, or have had a significant life transition. Other clients are struggling with depression or anxiety, or are having problems in their primary relationships. Many clients have a desire to improve their self awareness, to improve their perspective, or to strengthen their life skills. My work is informed by an eclectic mix of treatment models; psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I also teach Mindfulness practices as an effective tool to strengthen perspective and build resiliency.
Welcome! Clients come for support with a wide variety of concerns. Some have experienced a loss or trauma in their lives, or have had a significant life transition. Other clients are struggling with depression or anxiety, or are having problems in their primary relationships. Many clients have a desire to improve their self awareness, to improve their perspective, or to strengthen their life skills. My work is informed by an eclectic mix of treatment models; psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I also teach Mindfulness practices as an effective tool to strengthen perspective and build resiliency.
(617) 812-8983 View (617) 812-8983
Photo of Augusta Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Augusta Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
My strengths-based approach is strongly informed by Narrative and Motivational Interviewing practices.
What does self-love and compassion mean to you? I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to engage in self-exploration, self-empowerment, and healing. I believe that therapy is a space to prioritize your wellbeing, in order to show up for yourself and those you care about.
My strengths-based approach is strongly informed by Narrative and Motivational Interviewing practices.
What does self-love and compassion mean to you? I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to engage in self-exploration, self-empowerment, and healing. I believe that therapy is a space to prioritize your wellbeing, in order to show up for yourself and those you care about.
(339) 888-9322 View (339) 888-9322
Photo of Talitha Lutes, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Talitha Lutes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed mental health counselor who is passionate about helping individuals develop the skills needed for personal growth and increased self-awareness. My practice provides support to those who struggle to manage daily stressors, have difficulty coping with significant life changes, want to feel more awake and present in their lives, or struggle to change how they relate to others. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space in which you can feel supported while exploring challenges, learning healthy coping skills, and gaining increased self-awareness.
I am a licensed mental health counselor who is passionate about helping individuals develop the skills needed for personal growth and increased self-awareness. My practice provides support to those who struggle to manage daily stressors, have difficulty coping with significant life changes, want to feel more awake and present in their lives, or struggle to change how they relate to others. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space in which you can feel supported while exploring challenges, learning healthy coping skills, and gaining increased self-awareness.
(857) 277-7353 View (857) 277-7353
Photo of Colleen Burns, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Colleen Burns
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LADCI, COACH
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
As an Integrative Health Counselor I apply my knowledge and training in a new environment. Practicing as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor for 18 years led me to enhance my credentials with scientifically based nutritional therapies and certification in Stress Management And Resiliency Training. (SMART) With the ever-changing role of health care, clients want more. I am passionate about my clinical work and feel driven to use complementary approaches when traditional therapies need support. It is my passion and privilege to guide clients on how to take charge of their whole health.
As an Integrative Health Counselor I apply my knowledge and training in a new environment. Practicing as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor for 18 years led me to enhance my credentials with scientifically based nutritional therapies and certification in Stress Management And Resiliency Training. (SMART) With the ever-changing role of health care, clients want more. I am passionate about my clinical work and feel driven to use complementary approaches when traditional therapies need support. It is my passion and privilege to guide clients on how to take charge of their whole health.
(857) 228-3929 View (857) 228-3929
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.