Photo of Alana Harper, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Alana Harper
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
In therapy, I draw from different modalities, including Cognitive Behavior therapy, Family Systems therapy, and motivational interviewing,.
Thank you for visiting my site. I know your recovery is essential. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor practicing in North and South Carolina. I hold two Master's Degrees—Forensic Psychology from Argosy University and a Master's of Arts in Community Counseling and Development from George Mason University. I am a certified trauma professional skilled in helping adults, adolescents, and families manage mood disorders, anxiety, and life transitions. When working with clients, I use a person-centered, strength-based, compassionate, trauma-informed, and multiculturally approach to the therapeutic process.
In therapy, I draw from different modalities, including Cognitive Behavior therapy, Family Systems therapy, and motivational interviewing,.
Thank you for visiting my site. I know your recovery is essential. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor practicing in North and South Carolina. I hold two Master's Degrees—Forensic Psychology from Argosy University and a Master's of Arts in Community Counseling and Development from George Mason University. I am a certified trauma professional skilled in helping adults, adolescents, and families manage mood disorders, anxiety, and life transitions. When working with clients, I use a person-centered, strength-based, compassionate, trauma-informed, and multiculturally approach to the therapeutic process.
(704) 459-7815 x4 View (704) 459-7815 x4
Photo of Lily Mudry, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Charlotte, NC
Lily Mudry
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
I utilize a variety of Evidence Based Treatment interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a highly skilled and compassionate Trauma Therapist dedicated to providing exceptional care within a holistic framework. I have 30 years of professional counseling experience and have implemented effective treatment for adolescents and adults enduring a variety of mental health and/or substance use disorders. As a Counselor in the healing profession, my emphasis is on furthering your Wellness and Growth. At Eagle Eye Counseling the focus is on a Keeness for Excellence through Healing, Stability and Empowerment. I am also certified as a Master Addictions Counselor and provide Clinical Supervision for both Mental Health Counselors and Addiction Counselors who are seeking licensure.
I utilize a variety of Evidence Based Treatment interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a highly skilled and compassionate Trauma Therapist dedicated to providing exceptional care within a holistic framework. I have 30 years of professional counseling experience and have implemented effective treatment for adolescents and adults enduring a variety of mental health and/or substance use disorders. As a Counselor in the healing profession, my emphasis is on furthering your Wellness and Growth. At Eagle Eye Counseling the focus is on a Keeness for Excellence through Healing, Stability and Empowerment. I am also certified as a Master Addictions Counselor and provide Clinical Supervision for both Mental Health Counselors and Addiction Counselors who are seeking licensure.
(704) 594-8230 View (704) 594-8230
Photo of Dr. Lamont Barnett, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Dr. Lamont Barnett
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LCASA , CPLC , MAC, CNHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216
Using approaches but not limited to: solution focus, person-centered, mindfulness-based, reality therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, & cognitive behavioral therapies to address the whole person rather than just one isolated health component.
I specialize in helping you navigate through life's challenges, learn how to be more aware of your thoughts, feelings, emotions, surroundings, situations, & to reduce automatic responses. My clients are often experiencing stressors related to burnout, life transitions, life stagnation, relationships, perfectionism, Imposter Syndrome, high achievement/striving, challenging family dynamics, & struggling with managing anxiety/depression symptoms, addictions, or just feeling "stuck". The goal is to find your peace, recognize that you are not separated by your mental, physical, & spiritual health but interdependently connected by them.
Using approaches but not limited to: solution focus, person-centered, mindfulness-based, reality therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, & cognitive behavioral therapies to address the whole person rather than just one isolated health component.
I specialize in helping you navigate through life's challenges, learn how to be more aware of your thoughts, feelings, emotions, surroundings, situations, & to reduce automatic responses. My clients are often experiencing stressors related to burnout, life transitions, life stagnation, relationships, perfectionism, Imposter Syndrome, high achievement/striving, challenging family dynamics, & struggling with managing anxiety/depression symptoms, addictions, or just feeling "stuck". The goal is to find your peace, recognize that you are not separated by your mental, physical, & spiritual health but interdependently connected by them.
(919) 823-6602 View (919) 823-6602
Photo of Chris Gantt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Chris Gantt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Learning and practice in Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Awareness, Circle of Security, Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Psychodynamic Therapy have all served my holistic approach to the healing process.
I am here to help people who feel stuck in anxiety and depression to find their way through these challenging emotions to a sense of ease in a more authentic and satisfying relationship with life and themselves. My holistic practice is rooted in building a safe, supportive relationship and trusting your inner wisdom as we work side by side exploring life's challenges. Working together we'll discover your unique needs and strengths in developing our goals for treatment. I am committed to empathy and open-mindedness while utilizing therapeutic techniques with proven effectiveness.
Learning and practice in Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Awareness, Circle of Security, Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Psychodynamic Therapy have all served my holistic approach to the healing process.
I am here to help people who feel stuck in anxiety and depression to find their way through these challenging emotions to a sense of ease in a more authentic and satisfying relationship with life and themselves. My holistic practice is rooted in building a safe, supportive relationship and trusting your inner wisdom as we work side by side exploring life's challenges. Working together we'll discover your unique needs and strengths in developing our goals for treatment. I am committed to empathy and open-mindedness while utilizing therapeutic techniques with proven effectiveness.
(828) 232-8089 View (828) 232-8089
Photo of B's Effort Changing Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
B's Effort Changing Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSOTP, TFCBT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Currently accepting In-person and Telehealth sessions. When life has gotten you down and you feel the weight of life on your shoulders know there is someone to assist you. Life’s struggles come in all forms; depression, anxiety, behavioral, parental/child relationships, marital, self-esteem, past trauma, etc. Our goal is to help enhance coping skills you already have to be the best YOU! We value a collaborative approach and want to provide the support you need to grow in a safe space. We are passionate about educating about symptoms and assisting individuals and families with the skills to promote healthy coping skills.
Currently accepting In-person and Telehealth sessions. When life has gotten you down and you feel the weight of life on your shoulders know there is someone to assist you. Life’s struggles come in all forms; depression, anxiety, behavioral, parental/child relationships, marital, self-esteem, past trauma, etc. Our goal is to help enhance coping skills you already have to be the best YOU! We value a collaborative approach and want to provide the support you need to grow in a safe space. We are passionate about educating about symptoms and assisting individuals and families with the skills to promote healthy coping skills.
(704) 870-4987 View (704) 870-4987
Photo of Keshia Ginn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Keshia Ginn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist who has worked with diverse populations for more than 20 years. I have a passion for connecting with women of color who are experiencing emotional & relational issues. Treatment focus includes depression, anxiety, identity concerns, grief/loss, boundary setting & healthy relationships.
I am a licensed therapist who has worked with diverse populations for more than 20 years. I have a passion for connecting with women of color who are experiencing emotional & relational issues. Treatment focus includes depression, anxiety, identity concerns, grief/loss, boundary setting & healthy relationships.
(704) 327-0589 View (704) 327-0589
Photo of Jasmine Garrison, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Jasmine Garrison
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273
Only Accepting New Clients for EMDR Therapy Intensives- Do people in your life tend to think you have it all together, but in reality, you suffer in silence? Are you overwhelmed and feel like you're barely keeping your head above water? You’re someone who pushes yourself beyond your limits, but you find yourself burnt out and feeling dissatisfied in certain areas of your life despite many accolades and reaching milestones. Self-doubt has crept in and is keeping you "Stuck." But you're ready to make some changes. You're ready to heal. Most of all, you’re ready to prioritize YOU. I'm here to help.
Only Accepting New Clients for EMDR Therapy Intensives- Do people in your life tend to think you have it all together, but in reality, you suffer in silence? Are you overwhelmed and feel like you're barely keeping your head above water? You’re someone who pushes yourself beyond your limits, but you find yourself burnt out and feeling dissatisfied in certain areas of your life despite many accolades and reaching milestones. Self-doubt has crept in and is keeping you "Stuck." But you're ready to make some changes. You're ready to heal. Most of all, you’re ready to prioritize YOU. I'm here to help.
(980) 655-3897 View (980) 655-3897
Photo of Mark Larson Counseling & Consulting PLLC, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Mark Larson Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Counselor, DMin, LCMHC S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
You might feel stuck in your life or in unmanageable feelings or in a relationship or in your healing process. I want to help you find a safe place to get clarity, to explore your feelings and concerns, to receive honest constructive feedback and support. I will invite you to be an active participant in your own growth and change. This might include sharing your story, exploring feelings and sometimes doing projects outside of sessions such as reading, journaling, information gathering or making changes. I want to help you to trust your effectiveness in relationships and to feel more alive and to live out of your whole self.
You might feel stuck in your life or in unmanageable feelings or in a relationship or in your healing process. I want to help you find a safe place to get clarity, to explore your feelings and concerns, to receive honest constructive feedback and support. I will invite you to be an active participant in your own growth and change. This might include sharing your story, exploring feelings and sometimes doing projects outside of sessions such as reading, journaling, information gathering or making changes. I want to help you to trust your effectiveness in relationships and to feel more alive and to live out of your whole self.
(980) 414-3684 View (980) 414-3684
Photo of Laura Fusaiotti, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Laura Fusaiotti
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Life can often get in the way of us taking care of ourselves and providing the space for us to grow and thrive. Stress, trauma, and difficult experiences often interrupt our emotional well-being and create emotional distress. Everyone deserves the opportunity to find their true self to experience joy. Hence, it's my passion to come alongside kids, teens, and adults, and support them in the journey toward health and happiness.
Life can often get in the way of us taking care of ourselves and providing the space for us to grow and thrive. Stress, trauma, and difficult experiences often interrupt our emotional well-being and create emotional distress. Everyone deserves the opportunity to find their true self to experience joy. Hence, it's my passion to come alongside kids, teens, and adults, and support them in the journey toward health and happiness.
(704) 396-5427 View (704) 396-5427
Photo of Alyssa Cuomo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charlotte, NC
Alyssa Cuomo
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
My ideal client may be someone seeking to understand themselves better, grappling with their past, and feeling disconnected from their true identity. They crave validation, support, and guidance in their journey of self-discovery. They want to unlock their potential and live authentically, reclaiming agency over their life story.
My ideal client may be someone seeking to understand themselves better, grappling with their past, and feeling disconnected from their true identity. They crave validation, support, and guidance in their journey of self-discovery. They want to unlock their potential and live authentically, reclaiming agency over their life story.
(980) 485-5115 x708 View (980) 485-5115 x708
Photo of J. Suzanne Hagopian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
J. Suzanne Hagopian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LISW-CP, RYT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28213  (Online Only)
Clients who work with me are seeking a collaborative effort for wellness, open to mind / body approaches and a healthful path. Clients may be dealing with Anxiety or Depression, Trauma or Life Transitions (job related / relational / fertility / men's & women's issues / LGBTQIA+ / aging). You may be working to find peace & purpose in your life. I hope to help you in evaluating and processing internal and external barriers that may prevent you from actualizing authentic-self potential. We will do this work with psychodynamic and somatic principals. We will work together to provide applicable skills for meeting the goals we set forth.
Clients who work with me are seeking a collaborative effort for wellness, open to mind / body approaches and a healthful path. Clients may be dealing with Anxiety or Depression, Trauma or Life Transitions (job related / relational / fertility / men's & women's issues / LGBTQIA+ / aging). You may be working to find peace & purpose in your life. I hope to help you in evaluating and processing internal and external barriers that may prevent you from actualizing authentic-self potential. We will do this work with psychodynamic and somatic principals. We will work together to provide applicable skills for meeting the goals we set forth.
(704) 703-2956 View (704) 703-2956
Photo of Kathleen Marie Monforton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Kathleen Marie Monforton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Is fear, anxiety, or panic preventing you from living the life you want? Are you struggling with changes in thought, behavior, or mood? If this sounds like you, I’d like to help. I have 10+ years of experience working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses and I currently specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, & psychosis. However, I also work with clients 15 years of age and older struggling with depression, perfectionism, distress tolerance, substance use, life changes, stress management, dating, or just “adulting”. I offer sessions virtually and in person in Elizabeth area of Charlotte.
Is fear, anxiety, or panic preventing you from living the life you want? Are you struggling with changes in thought, behavior, or mood? If this sounds like you, I’d like to help. I have 10+ years of experience working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses and I currently specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, & psychosis. However, I also work with clients 15 years of age and older struggling with depression, perfectionism, distress tolerance, substance use, life changes, stress management, dating, or just “adulting”. I offer sessions virtually and in person in Elizabeth area of Charlotte.
(872) 216-7262 View (872) 216-7262
Photo of Kim Latham Moseley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Kim Latham Moseley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, making a life transition, experiencing loss or feeling stuck, it requires looking at your whole self! I have over 30 years of experience ranging from working in hospice and bereavement care to assisting older adults and their families as a Geriatric Care Manager, as well as being a Certified Integrative Health Coach from Duke Integrative Medicine and doing Integrative Psychotherapy. I will skillfully help you become your true and best self with the necessary tools to build a healthy, meaningful life, not in spite of, but because of, any challenges you face.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, making a life transition, experiencing loss or feeling stuck, it requires looking at your whole self! I have over 30 years of experience ranging from working in hospice and bereavement care to assisting older adults and their families as a Geriatric Care Manager, as well as being a Certified Integrative Health Coach from Duke Integrative Medicine and doing Integrative Psychotherapy. I will skillfully help you become your true and best self with the necessary tools to build a healthy, meaningful life, not in spite of, but because of, any challenges you face.
(704) 207-0774 View (704) 207-0774
Photo of Kirsten Cole, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Kirsten Cole
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Do you feel unfulfilled in your life, like something is missing? Are you hiding certain behaviors from friends and family? Are you struggling with self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Are you using unhelpful coping mechanisms such as substance use, shopping, gaming/internet, or gambling to cope with those struggles? It is difficult to understand the "why" of our thought processes and behaviors on our own. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you work through understanding your "why" and assist in handling life transitions, achieving goals, or finding relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance use issues.
Do you feel unfulfilled in your life, like something is missing? Are you hiding certain behaviors from friends and family? Are you struggling with self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Are you using unhelpful coping mechanisms such as substance use, shopping, gaming/internet, or gambling to cope with those struggles? It is difficult to understand the "why" of our thought processes and behaviors on our own. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you work through understanding your "why" and assist in handling life transitions, achieving goals, or finding relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance use issues.
(704) 272-2389 View (704) 272-2389
Photo of Life Adjustment Solutions, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Life Adjustment Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, HCSVS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Welcome, I am Joseph R. Carlton, Owner and Therapist of Life Adjustment Solution. I specialize in therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. Families are the cornerstone for preserving the stability of mental health in today's high intensity society. Individuals, couples, and families are the foundation of building close emotional relationships across generations, ethnicity, racial and religious backgrounds. Each factor is greatly considered in Life Adjustment Solution mission statement. I am dedicated to changing our society one case at a time. Each case will be considered as important as the next. My clients will receive the therapeutic care that best fits their needs.
Welcome, I am Joseph R. Carlton, Owner and Therapist of Life Adjustment Solution. I specialize in therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. Families are the cornerstone for preserving the stability of mental health in today's high intensity society. Individuals, couples, and families are the foundation of building close emotional relationships across generations, ethnicity, racial and religious backgrounds. Each factor is greatly considered in Life Adjustment Solution mission statement. I am dedicated to changing our society one case at a time. Each case will be considered as important as the next. My clients will receive the therapeutic care that best fits their needs.
(704) 727-4897 View (704) 727-4897
Photo of Hayley Dodd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Hayley Dodd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, YTT-200, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216
Hayley Dodd is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with extensive experience working with teenagers and adults in both private and non-profit sectors of the mental health field. She specializes in working with clients coping with trauma, issues of loss and change, anxiety, depression, and the essential human tasks of: self-development, growth in relationships, and discovering meaning and purpose.
Hayley Dodd is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with extensive experience working with teenagers and adults in both private and non-profit sectors of the mental health field. She specializes in working with clients coping with trauma, issues of loss and change, anxiety, depression, and the essential human tasks of: self-development, growth in relationships, and discovering meaning and purpose.
(804) 361-6769 View (804) 361-6769
Photo of Shay Danielle Reeves, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Shay Danielle Reeves
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
The tricky thing about healing is that it requires us to go to the places in ourselves that we fear the most. If we want peace, we have to walk towards the parts of us that feel anxiety and turmoil. If we want to feel worthy, we have to walk towards the parts of ourselves that feel UN-worthy. In our work together, you will fundamentally transform the quality of your life (and your relationships!) by learning to build your reality from a place of conscious awareness, rather than a place of pain/trauma. You will release the unprocessed wounds stored in your nervous system, making space for a happy, free, and dare I say, magical life!
The tricky thing about healing is that it requires us to go to the places in ourselves that we fear the most. If we want peace, we have to walk towards the parts of us that feel anxiety and turmoil. If we want to feel worthy, we have to walk towards the parts of ourselves that feel UN-worthy. In our work together, you will fundamentally transform the quality of your life (and your relationships!) by learning to build your reality from a place of conscious awareness, rather than a place of pain/trauma. You will release the unprocessed wounds stored in your nervous system, making space for a happy, free, and dare I say, magical life!
(704) 703-2822 View (704) 703-2822
Photo of Tonia Jacobs Deese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Tonia Jacobs Deese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28217
Waitlist for new clients
Are there things in your life that you would like to change, but you don’t know where to start? Are you struggling with the ups and downs of life and are stressed, anxious, or just not feeling like yourself? Then, it’s time to give therapy a try! A dedicated clinician, social worker, and advocate, I am passionate about helping you achieve complete wellness—being healthy in your mind, body, spirit, and emotions. When we pay attention to these areas of our lives, we thrive. You pick the area(s) you want to focus on, and you pick where we will start. I will support, challenge, and encourage you along the way.
Are there things in your life that you would like to change, but you don’t know where to start? Are you struggling with the ups and downs of life and are stressed, anxious, or just not feeling like yourself? Then, it’s time to give therapy a try! A dedicated clinician, social worker, and advocate, I am passionate about helping you achieve complete wellness—being healthy in your mind, body, spirit, and emotions. When we pay attention to these areas of our lives, we thrive. You pick the area(s) you want to focus on, and you pick where we will start. I will support, challenge, and encourage you along the way.
(704) 859-2236 View (704) 859-2236
Photo of Waystation Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Waystation Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
(NIGHT AND WEEKEND AVAILABIILITY in NC and FL!!) Are you looking for kindness and compassion? Or do you want to hear things straight? We have several well qualified professional and if we don't have a fit we will help find you someone! Some of our focuses are Anxiety/ADHD, Parenting, Grief and Loss, Medical, Life Coaching, Mediation, Personality Disorders, Autism, OCD, Veterans, and Job Stress.
(NIGHT AND WEEKEND AVAILABIILITY in NC and FL!!) Are you looking for kindness and compassion? Or do you want to hear things straight? We have several well qualified professional and if we don't have a fit we will help find you someone! Some of our focuses are Anxiety/ADHD, Parenting, Grief and Loss, Medical, Life Coaching, Mediation, Personality Disorders, Autism, OCD, Veterans, and Job Stress.
(704) 459-1319 View (704) 459-1319
Photo of Jeff Brockman, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Jeff Brockman
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
As an adult who wrestles with stopping the frieght train of their thinking loops or as the parent of a struggling student, I offer you hope! You may have done countless Google searches, talked to many friends and neighbors, and may have been hopeful you had found a solution, only to find out it was a temporary solution. It CAN get better and many solutions can be permanent! Let's start feeling hope again. The soul is healed by being with children (Dostoyevsky). Pain and suffering are inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart (Dostoyevsky). Let's turn suffering into dancing!
As an adult who wrestles with stopping the frieght train of their thinking loops or as the parent of a struggling student, I offer you hope! You may have done countless Google searches, talked to many friends and neighbors, and may have been hopeful you had found a solution, only to find out it was a temporary solution. It CAN get better and many solutions can be permanent! Let's start feeling hope again. The soul is healed by being with children (Dostoyevsky). Pain and suffering are inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart (Dostoyevsky). Let's turn suffering into dancing!
(704) 457-1789 View (704) 457-1789
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.