Photo of Safe Place Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Safe Place Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, LCADC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Skillman, NJ 08558
At our practice, you will be supported by a dedicated team of compassionate and caring therapists. We are a trauma-informed, community-oriented practice that only uses evidence and research-based treatment modalities for depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and other life challenges and transitions. We believe in mind/body connection, so body-oriented skills are taught and incorporated into our therapy sessions. We will teach you/work with you on integrating mindfulness, meditation, grounding, and other effective coping skills to address emotional distress, change behavioral patterns and enhance relationships. All are welcome.
At our practice, you will be supported by a dedicated team of compassionate and caring therapists. We are a trauma-informed, community-oriented practice that only uses evidence and research-based treatment modalities for depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and other life challenges and transitions. We believe in mind/body connection, so body-oriented skills are taught and incorporated into our therapy sessions. We will teach you/work with you on integrating mindfulness, meditation, grounding, and other effective coping skills to address emotional distress, change behavioral patterns and enhance relationships. All are welcome.
(609) 375-0135 View (609) 375-0135

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Elizabeth Tedeschi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Elizabeth Tedeschi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876  (Online Only)
I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), have taken Nurturing Parent training and have worked as a parent coach.
Far too often we are weighed down by heavy emotions; intrusive thoughts and conditioned patterns. Through my varied experience I have been able to witness firsthand--that even in the most dire circumstances positive change is possible. My philosophy is to provide you with patience; positivity and pragmatism while varying the therapeutic approach to fit your current needs. To foster motivation and facilitate insight, I utilize a combination of strength-based techniques. I also believe in the significance of incorporating your interests and creativity (e.g. art, music, theatre and humor) into sessions.
I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), have taken Nurturing Parent training and have worked as a parent coach.
Far too often we are weighed down by heavy emotions; intrusive thoughts and conditioned patterns. Through my varied experience I have been able to witness firsthand--that even in the most dire circumstances positive change is possible. My philosophy is to provide you with patience; positivity and pragmatism while varying the therapeutic approach to fit your current needs. To foster motivation and facilitate insight, I utilize a combination of strength-based techniques. I also believe in the significance of incorporating your interests and creativity (e.g. art, music, theatre and humor) into sessions.
(973) 310-5294 View (973) 310-5294
Photo of Richard Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
He has worked with adults, individuals, groups and couples and continues to provide psychotherapy with approaches including but not limited to Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
He has worked with adults, individuals, groups and couples and continues to provide psychotherapy with approaches including but not limited to Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(908) 916-3602 View (908) 916-3602
Photo of Reena Panchal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Reena Panchal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876
Reena comes with an extensive background working with both adults and adolescents. She has worked with a diverse population in the mental health field which incorporates families, couples, addictions, mental health (anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, etc.), dually diagnosed, and developmental disabilities including but not limited to autism and Asperger's Syndrome. She also has experience with grief and death and dying in which she uses Motivational Interviewing techniques to empower clients with difficult and advancing medical conditions to gain insight into their life values now, and in the future as things may progress with their medical condition.
Reena comes with an extensive background working with both adults and adolescents. She has worked with a diverse population in the mental health field which incorporates families, couples, addictions, mental health (anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, etc.), dually diagnosed, and developmental disabilities including but not limited to autism and Asperger's Syndrome. She also has experience with grief and death and dying in which she uses Motivational Interviewing techniques to empower clients with difficult and advancing medical conditions to gain insight into their life values now, and in the future as things may progress with their medical condition.
(908) 332-5199 View (908) 332-5199
Photo of Lisa A Curcio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Lisa A Curcio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Readington, NJ 08870  (Online Only)
I utilize a wide range of integrative therapeutic approaches to include solution--focused, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mind-body medicine techniques to meet the unique needs of clients.
Are you seeking to improve your quality of life & overall well-being? My approach to therapy is to help you gain a better sense of self, develop emotional stability & achieve personal growth. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 year's experience in the mental health field. I graduated from Columbia University with a MSW & have a BS in Applied Sociology/Social Work from Seattle University. I possess extensive experience working with individuals & couples living with PTSD, Trauma related issues, Grief, Adjustment Issues/Disorders, Depression, Substance Use, Anxiety, Work-Related Issues, & Marital/Relational issues.
I utilize a wide range of integrative therapeutic approaches to include solution--focused, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mind-body medicine techniques to meet the unique needs of clients.
Are you seeking to improve your quality of life & overall well-being? My approach to therapy is to help you gain a better sense of self, develop emotional stability & achieve personal growth. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 year's experience in the mental health field. I graduated from Columbia University with a MSW & have a BS in Applied Sociology/Social Work from Seattle University. I possess extensive experience working with individuals & couples living with PTSD, Trauma related issues, Grief, Adjustment Issues/Disorders, Depression, Substance Use, Anxiety, Work-Related Issues, & Marital/Relational issues.
(908) 970-8798 View (908) 970-8798
Photo of Richard Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
South Brunswick, NJ 08810
He has worked with adults, individuals, groups and couples and continues to provide psychotherapy with approaches including but not limited to Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
He has worked with adults, individuals, groups and couples and continues to provide psychotherapy with approaches including but not limited to Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(908) 867-9023 View (908) 867-9023
Photo of Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, LPC, CRS, FAPA
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
(732) 983-5313 View (732) 983-5313
Photo of Samantha Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Samantha Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I also utilize Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Art Therapy.
A client who is continuously present physically and mentally for treatment is ideal. Despite setbacks and stressors, they still move forward, only taking a moment. Their issues can be environmental, situational, or psychological.
I also utilize Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Art Therapy.
A client who is continuously present physically and mentally for treatment is ideal. Despite setbacks and stressors, they still move forward, only taking a moment. Their issues can be environmental, situational, or psychological.
(609) 795-7767 View (609) 795-7767
Photo of Amanda Ferrogine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Amanda Ferrogine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534  (Online Only)
I use a variety of evidence - based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution - Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing with the integration of mindfulness and holistic interventions.
I help adolescents (age 16+) and adults who experienced or are currently experiencing unhealthy and toxic relationships. I worked to help my clients set boundaries, feel empowered and cope in a healthy way while navigating through the impact of these difficult relationships. I also address a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, life's transitions, grief and bereavement.
I use a variety of evidence - based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution - Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing with the integration of mindfulness and holistic interventions.
I help adolescents (age 16+) and adults who experienced or are currently experiencing unhealthy and toxic relationships. I worked to help my clients set boundaries, feel empowered and cope in a healthy way while navigating through the impact of these difficult relationships. I also address a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, life's transitions, grief and bereavement.
(856) 474-3245 View (856) 474-3245
Photo of Surging Vibrations Lifestyle LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Surging Vibrations Lifestyle LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSPsy, LCADC
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness techniques to support mental well-being and lifestyle changes.
Welcome to Surging Vibrations Lifestyle LLC, where we embrace a holistic, client-centered approach, addressing you as a whole—mind, body, and spirit—beyond addiction and co-occurring issues. Our ideal clients are individuals who deal with substance use challenges and are committed to holistic well-being. They seek a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their struggles, identify triggers, and develop effective coping strategies. Our clients are motivated to achieve freedom from substance use patterns and create a balanced, resilient life. They are eager to uncover their inner strengths, enhance their mental well-being, and find
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness techniques to support mental well-being and lifestyle changes.
Welcome to Surging Vibrations Lifestyle LLC, where we embrace a holistic, client-centered approach, addressing you as a whole—mind, body, and spirit—beyond addiction and co-occurring issues. Our ideal clients are individuals who deal with substance use challenges and are committed to holistic well-being. They seek a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their struggles, identify triggers, and develop effective coping strategies. Our clients are motivated to achieve freedom from substance use patterns and create a balanced, resilient life. They are eager to uncover their inner strengths, enhance their mental well-being, and find
(973) 453-0347 View (973) 453-0347
Photo of Nicole Cowan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Nicole Cowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
I provide an empowerig, solution-focused, TF-CBT/CBT/DBT-oriented, interpersonal therapy, and motivational interviewing.
My ideal client has experienced trauma, has relationship and mood difficulty, and is motivated to improve their symptoms and process their trauma in a safe environment. My clients fall between the ages of 13 and 40 years old. My experience ranges from presenting diagnoses including mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, and more. I am equip to treat a multitude of presenting issues, as many clients don't have solely one issue that brings them to therapy. I offer a sliding scale fee for those in need.
I provide an empowerig, solution-focused, TF-CBT/CBT/DBT-oriented, interpersonal therapy, and motivational interviewing.
My ideal client has experienced trauma, has relationship and mood difficulty, and is motivated to improve their symptoms and process their trauma in a safe environment. My clients fall between the ages of 13 and 40 years old. My experience ranges from presenting diagnoses including mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, and more. I am equip to treat a multitude of presenting issues, as many clients don't have solely one issue that brings them to therapy. I offer a sliding scale fee for those in need.
(862) 288-7851 View (862) 288-7851
Photo of Marisa Lutz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Marisa Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAMFT, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
We can delve into their core beliefs, thoughts, and coping mechanisms using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI).
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
We can delve into their core beliefs, thoughts, and coping mechanisms using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI).
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
(609) 905-5552 View (609) 905-5552
Photo of Georgia Veneziano, Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Georgia Veneziano
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I can help by being well-versed in many theories of counseling and modalities such as meditation, breath work, narrative therapy, hypnotherapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, and simply being an open and understanding human being who is here to listen to my clients and meet them where they are.
My ideal client is motivated to change and willing to put in the work. They struggle with anxiety or PTSD and want to release the burden of feeling trapped inside their own mind. Their goals are to create and cultivate new hobbies like meditation, journaling, and finding ways to set up boundaries to cultivate more self-love, among other things. They are willing to be vulnerable, to go deep and face their own shadows. It is my hope that working with me will help my clients of this nature to free themselves through our deep conversations.
I can help by being well-versed in many theories of counseling and modalities such as meditation, breath work, narrative therapy, hypnotherapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, and simply being an open and understanding human being who is here to listen to my clients and meet them where they are.
My ideal client is motivated to change and willing to put in the work. They struggle with anxiety or PTSD and want to release the burden of feeling trapped inside their own mind. Their goals are to create and cultivate new hobbies like meditation, journaling, and finding ways to set up boundaries to cultivate more self-love, among other things. They are willing to be vulnerable, to go deep and face their own shadows. It is my hope that working with me will help my clients of this nature to free themselves through our deep conversations.
(609) 757-9839 View (609) 757-9839
Photo of Joan Theresa Buckley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Joan Theresa Buckley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648  (Online Only)
We all want to have a purpose in the world and desire to be part of something. When conflicts strike, sometimes it feels like a tidal wave crashing on us and our problems become overwhelmingly out of control. Sometimes unresolved problems lead to fear, anxiety, and depression and we find it difficult to cope. My approach to the therapeutic relationship embraces H.O.P.E. - Healing, Optimism, Potential, and Empowerment. I have over 30 years of experience in the field of mental health and I will motivate you to increase your quality of life through evidenced based practices including Motivational Interviewing, CBT, REBT, Mindfulness.
We all want to have a purpose in the world and desire to be part of something. When conflicts strike, sometimes it feels like a tidal wave crashing on us and our problems become overwhelmingly out of control. Sometimes unresolved problems lead to fear, anxiety, and depression and we find it difficult to cope. My approach to the therapeutic relationship embraces H.O.P.E. - Healing, Optimism, Potential, and Empowerment. I have over 30 years of experience in the field of mental health and I will motivate you to increase your quality of life through evidenced based practices including Motivational Interviewing, CBT, REBT, Mindfulness.
(609) 418-4510 View (609) 418-4510
Photo of Chloe L Colosimo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Skillman, NJ
Chloe L Colosimo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
I have extensive experience providing couples, family and group therapy with various populations and utilize motivational interviewing, client centered approaches.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 25 years of experience specializing in addictions and trauma. I works primarily with individuals ages 13 and over facing challenges related to depression, anxiety/panic disorder, mood and personality disorders, interpersonal problems, self esteem, PTSD, trauma, grief, life transition, adjustment issues, stress management and substance abuse.
I have extensive experience providing couples, family and group therapy with various populations and utilize motivational interviewing, client centered approaches.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 25 years of experience specializing in addictions and trauma. I works primarily with individuals ages 13 and over facing challenges related to depression, anxiety/panic disorder, mood and personality disorders, interpersonal problems, self esteem, PTSD, trauma, grief, life transition, adjustment issues, stress management and substance abuse.
(609) 375-0989 View (609) 375-0989
Photo of Melissa Chance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Melissa Chance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I utilize motivational interviewing skills, stress management, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
I love to help others. It has been my passion ever since I was a teenager. I want to be a positive support and teach others how to be the best version of themselves. It is so rewarding to be part of another person's journey and see them accomplish their goals. I also want to be the major point of support for someone that I wish I had and needed when I was younger.
I utilize motivational interviewing skills, stress management, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
I love to help others. It has been my passion ever since I was a teenager. I want to be a positive support and teach others how to be the best version of themselves. It is so rewarding to be part of another person's journey and see them accomplish their goals. I also want to be the major point of support for someone that I wish I had and needed when I was younger.
(609) 928-8273 View (609) 928-8273
Photo of Lisa Sanders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Lisa Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kendall Park, NJ 08824  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I created Balancing Life Counseling Center out of a desire to provide support and restoration of balance to the lives of children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing psychological distress.
I created Balancing Life Counseling Center out of a desire to provide support and restoration of balance to the lives of children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing psychological distress.
(908) 344-3315 View (908) 344-3315
Photo of Melanie Pacheco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Melanie Pacheco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
South Brunswick, NJ 08810
I love working with all different types of clients, and I find that I learn from those that I work with. I love working with anyone who wants to make a change or achieve a goal.
I love working with all different types of clients, and I find that I learn from those that I work with. I love working with anyone who wants to make a change or achieve a goal.
(908) 460-7634 View (908) 460-7634
Photo of Jenna Kimock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Jenna Kimock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flemington, NJ 08822
I offer individual therapy, consultations, and home visits. Therapy topics I work with are (but not limited to): Depression, anxiety (all mood disorders), relationship issues, divorce, stress management, trauma, caregiver stress and fatigue, living with dementia, self-esteem, coping skills, and life transition. I also offer clinical supervision to social workers looking to obtain clinical licensure.
I offer individual therapy, consultations, and home visits. Therapy topics I work with are (but not limited to): Depression, anxiety (all mood disorders), relationship issues, divorce, stress management, trauma, caregiver stress and fatigue, living with dementia, self-esteem, coping skills, and life transition. I also offer clinical supervision to social workers looking to obtain clinical licensure.
(908) 428-6101 View (908) 428-6101
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Skillman, NJ
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
South Brunswick, NJ 08810
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
(908) 356-4481 View (908) 356-4481
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.