Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Delhi, NY

Photo of Shawn Bubany, Psychologist in Delhi, NY
Shawn Bubany
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Delhi, NY 13753
We feel uncertain, afraid, and conflicted when going through hardship. And we often are self-critical at our low points, yet we all suffer in these ways. There are understandable reasons why we struggle that have nothing to do with our worth as people and everything to do with experiences we’ve had. Through no fault of our own, we internalize a lot of unhelpful stuff that we can carry with us. I believe that therapy at its best can help people break free from old emotions, habits, and stories that are not useful anymore. And I believe therapy has the potential to empower people to live more healthy, present, and authentic lives.
We feel uncertain, afraid, and conflicted when going through hardship. And we often are self-critical at our low points, yet we all suffer in these ways. There are understandable reasons why we struggle that have nothing to do with our worth as people and everything to do with experiences we’ve had. Through no fault of our own, we internalize a lot of unhelpful stuff that we can carry with us. I believe that therapy at its best can help people break free from old emotions, habits, and stories that are not useful anymore. And I believe therapy has the potential to empower people to live more healthy, present, and authentic lives.
(607) 862-5341 View (607) 862-5341
Photo of North Star Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
North Star Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delhi, NY 13753
I have been working with families, parents, teens and children since 2008.  I have worked in a variety of therapy settings providing both group and individual therapy.  I have always enjoyed working with families and children, and being a mother myself, I feel this has allowed me to connect and support other mothers on this special and sometimes difficult journey.  I want to create a therapeutic relationship where parents and children can feel safe, comfortable and not judged.  I want your child(ren) to enjoy childhood and for you to be able to relish in the joys of parenting.  I am honored to be part of your journey.
I have been working with families, parents, teens and children since 2008.  I have worked in a variety of therapy settings providing both group and individual therapy.  I have always enjoyed working with families and children, and being a mother myself, I feel this has allowed me to connect and support other mothers on this special and sometimes difficult journey.  I want to create a therapeutic relationship where parents and children can feel safe, comfortable and not judged.  I want your child(ren) to enjoy childhood and for you to be able to relish in the joys of parenting.  I am honored to be part of your journey.
(607) 284-5651 View (607) 284-5651
Photo of Crystal Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Crystal Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delhi, NY 13753
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my private practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in anxiety disorders, depression, addiction, relationship issues, and trauma. I like to meet my clients where they are at, collaboratively coming up with goals and objectives for treatment, and to help them move forward with their lives.
Welcome to my private practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in anxiety disorders, depression, addiction, relationship issues, and trauma. I like to meet my clients where they are at, collaboratively coming up with goals and objectives for treatment, and to help them move forward with their lives.
(607) 364-8423 View (607) 364-8423

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tracy Marie Stoop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Tracy Marie Stoop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
De Lancey, NY 13752
Struggling with a life change? Motherhood, menopause and peri-menopause, gender-based discrimination or marginalization, or being a woman of a “certain age” in today’s society? If you are dealing with any of these issues, I am happy to partner with you on your journey toward the life you want to curate for yourself. I am experienced helping women with life cycle issues, constant/chronic worrying, overthinking, feeling like you are not good enough in any area of your life, trauma, parenting and co-parenting struggles, prenatal and postpartum challenges, and relationship issues. I specialize in individual counseling for women.
Struggling with a life change? Motherhood, menopause and peri-menopause, gender-based discrimination or marginalization, or being a woman of a “certain age” in today’s society? If you are dealing with any of these issues, I am happy to partner with you on your journey toward the life you want to curate for yourself. I am experienced helping women with life cycle issues, constant/chronic worrying, overthinking, feeling like you are not good enough in any area of your life, trauma, parenting and co-parenting struggles, prenatal and postpartum challenges, and relationship issues. I specialize in individual counseling for women.
(607) 968-9019 View (607) 968-9019
Photo of Neurodiversity In-Home Play Therapy & Psychosis, Counselor in Delhi, NY
Neurodiversity In-Home Play Therapy & Psychosis
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Walton, NY 13856
Not accepting new clients
If you’ve found me, you know how difficult it can be to seek answers in the areas of understanding the differences in communication, ways of learning, and social preferences for both neurodiverse children and their parents. You are most likely exhausted and eager to learn more about science-based resources to help your child reach success, as you haven’t been afforded effective parent management techniques or learned about the neurobiology of attachment. Developing co-regulation techniques is essential for calming the nervous system. These techniques guide families and improve family function. I am licensed in NY and VT.
If you’ve found me, you know how difficult it can be to seek answers in the areas of understanding the differences in communication, ways of learning, and social preferences for both neurodiverse children and their parents. You are most likely exhausted and eager to learn more about science-based resources to help your child reach success, as you haven’t been afforded effective parent management techniques or learned about the neurobiology of attachment. Developing co-regulation techniques is essential for calming the nervous system. These techniques guide families and improve family function. I am licensed in NY and VT.
(607) 235-2986 View (607) 235-2986

Online Therapists

Photo of The Practice of Amanda Keller, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
The Practice of Amanda Keller, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Clifton Park, NY 12065  (Online Only)
Amanda uses a wide variety of therapeutic interventions, including cognitive behavioral, dialectical, brainspotting, motivational interviewing and solution focused approaches.
Amanda received her Bachelor’s degree from the University at Albany in Psychology and her Master’s degree from Adelphi University in Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in working with adults and children with developmental disabilities and adults with mental illness. Amanda was the clinical director of a large outpatient mental health clinic, where she was responsible for the direct oversight of all clinical services, as well as the supervision of the clinical staff and student interns.
Amanda uses a wide variety of therapeutic interventions, including cognitive behavioral, dialectical, brainspotting, motivational interviewing and solution focused approaches.
Amanda received her Bachelor’s degree from the University at Albany in Psychology and her Master’s degree from Adelphi University in Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in working with adults and children with developmental disabilities and adults with mental illness. Amanda was the clinical director of a large outpatient mental health clinic, where she was responsible for the direct oversight of all clinical services, as well as the supervision of the clinical staff and student interns.
(518) 840-0996 View (518) 840-0996
Photo of Bryant Srour Counseling, Counselor in Delhi, NY
Bryant Srour Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goldens Bridge, NY 10526
I have completed advanced certificates in Motivational Interviewing to address behavior-change, as well as Dialectical-Behavioral therapy to address issues regulating emotions.
Sometimes life can be very stressful due to a variety of barriers. Anxiety, depression or stress can interrupt our lives and lead to despair. Sometimes as individuals, we have the feeling that we are alone in this despair and that nothing can help us improve. Negative thinking and difficult emotions can lead to poor self-esteem and isolation from those we love, as well as difficulties attending to responsibilities or striving towards our goals in life. I believe all humans have the capacity for change and achieve our goals to transform into our best version of ourselves, and therapy can be a first step to achieving these goals.
I have completed advanced certificates in Motivational Interviewing to address behavior-change, as well as Dialectical-Behavioral therapy to address issues regulating emotions.
Sometimes life can be very stressful due to a variety of barriers. Anxiety, depression or stress can interrupt our lives and lead to despair. Sometimes as individuals, we have the feeling that we are alone in this despair and that nothing can help us improve. Negative thinking and difficult emotions can lead to poor self-esteem and isolation from those we love, as well as difficulties attending to responsibilities or striving towards our goals in life. I believe all humans have the capacity for change and achieve our goals to transform into our best version of ourselves, and therapy can be a first step to achieving these goals.
(914) 800-7690 View (914) 800-7690
Photo of Julia Cole, Pre-Licensed Professional in Delhi, NY
Julia Cole
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC, LP
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850  (Online Only)
Rooted in a Person-Centered Approach, I draw upon strength-based Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness-Based Practices.
I view therapy as a partnership and work well with clients who are driven to gain understandings of themselves and life, both autonomously and collaboratively. Every person has their own strengths, which can be harnessed to develop insight and change into their lifestyles and perspectives. I also acknowledge that everyone has their own past experiences that have led them to today. I strive to establish rapport with my clients and a space to feel safe and validated to foster a deeper level of empowerment, personal growth and self-acceptance.
Rooted in a Person-Centered Approach, I draw upon strength-based Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness-Based Practices.
I view therapy as a partnership and work well with clients who are driven to gain understandings of themselves and life, both autonomously and collaboratively. Every person has their own strengths, which can be harnessed to develop insight and change into their lifestyles and perspectives. I also acknowledge that everyone has their own past experiences that have led them to today. I strive to establish rapport with my clients and a space to feel safe and validated to foster a deeper level of empowerment, personal growth and self-acceptance.
(585) 440-7074 x142 View (585) 440-7074 x142
Photo of Alyssa Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Alyssa Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PMH-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Slingerlands, NY 12159  (Online Only)
Telehealth space available! Are you struggling with your relationships? Struggling with infertility, pregnancy or becoming a new parent? With 10+ years of experience, I’ve helped countless individuals experience growth, build resilience, and free themselves from patterns and events that weigh them down. I utilize approaches including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, schema work, and solution focused treatment. Through vulnerability comes power. At Great Range Therapy, you’ll be able to better understand the patterns that keep you stuck and how to break free.
Telehealth space available! Are you struggling with your relationships? Struggling with infertility, pregnancy or becoming a new parent? With 10+ years of experience, I’ve helped countless individuals experience growth, build resilience, and free themselves from patterns and events that weigh them down. I utilize approaches including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, schema work, and solution focused treatment. Through vulnerability comes power. At Great Range Therapy, you’ll be able to better understand the patterns that keep you stuck and how to break free.
(518) 412-7690 View (518) 412-7690
Photo of Thomas A Gottehrer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Thomas A Gottehrer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12203
I use techniques ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational interviewing, Solution-Focus Therapy, and some Eastern Medicine-based methods.
Are you depressed? Anxious? Having trouble dealing with a difficult life transition? Do you find yourself searching for meaning and looking for ways to address the doldrums of life or find your true purpose? I have worked in addiction services, as well as mental health services and have worked with a myriad of persons dealing with a wide range of interpersonal, personal, and social issues.
I use techniques ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational interviewing, Solution-Focus Therapy, and some Eastern Medicine-based methods.
Are you depressed? Anxious? Having trouble dealing with a difficult life transition? Do you find yourself searching for meaning and looking for ways to address the doldrums of life or find your true purpose? I have worked in addiction services, as well as mental health services and have worked with a myriad of persons dealing with a wide range of interpersonal, personal, and social issues.
(518) 351-7057 View (518) 351-7057
Photo of Kate M Dvorkin, Psychologist in Delhi, NY
Kate M Dvorkin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561
Motivational Interviewing informs both of these aspects of my practice.
Crucial to my work is helping people to find what works for them; it's not always easy to figure out the best path in life or in therapy. If I can't be of optimal help, I always offer other resources. I establish a partnership and offer suggestions of alternative behaviors to try between sessions. My goal is not compliance with the suggestions, but awareness of the experience of either trying the new behavior or considering it and rejecting it. Either way, we learn.
Motivational Interviewing informs both of these aspects of my practice.
Crucial to my work is helping people to find what works for them; it's not always easy to figure out the best path in life or in therapy. If I can't be of optimal help, I always offer other resources. I establish a partnership and offer suggestions of alternative behaviors to try between sessions. My goal is not compliance with the suggestions, but awareness of the experience of either trying the new behavior or considering it and rejecting it. Either way, we learn.
(845) 445-6352 View (845) 445-6352
Photo of Jenny C. Carmona-Padilla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Jenny C. Carmona-Padilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Mahopac, NY 10541  (Online Only)
Jenny is clinically trained in Trauma-informed Care and Personality Disorders, utilizing numerous evidence-based therapeutic approaches as appropriate to the individual's needs: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
As a Board Certified Telemental Health Clinician, I am excited to meet you and honored to join with you on your experiential journey towards enlightenment, strength-building, and tranquility! I provide support with a clinical and holistic lens, as well as wellness coach. My goal is to forge a therapeutic alliance with you, understand your challenges, and establish appropriate treatment goals individualized to your specific needs. I strive to assure that diversity and cultural norms are considered throughout my treatment efforts. Let us focus on managing the symptoms, not the labels. I also provide Clinical Supervision.
Jenny is clinically trained in Trauma-informed Care and Personality Disorders, utilizing numerous evidence-based therapeutic approaches as appropriate to the individual's needs: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
As a Board Certified Telemental Health Clinician, I am excited to meet you and honored to join with you on your experiential journey towards enlightenment, strength-building, and tranquility! I provide support with a clinical and holistic lens, as well as wellness coach. My goal is to forge a therapeutic alliance with you, understand your challenges, and establish appropriate treatment goals individualized to your specific needs. I strive to assure that diversity and cultural norms are considered throughout my treatment efforts. Let us focus on managing the symptoms, not the labels. I also provide Clinical Supervision.
(845) 391-0541 View (845) 391-0541
Photo of Connie Carr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Connie Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, NY 12401  (Online Only)
Taking the step to seek out therapy can be scary and overwhelming but I believe in creating an environment that is free from judgment and focus on the goals that you want to achieve. I use a mixture of evidence based approaches including Cognitive Behaviors Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Moral Reconation Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Taking the step to seek out therapy can be scary and overwhelming but I believe in creating an environment that is free from judgment and focus on the goals that you want to achieve. I use a mixture of evidence based approaches including Cognitive Behaviors Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Moral Reconation Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(845) 443-4078 View (845) 443-4078
Photo of Christopher Boydston, Mental Health Counselor in Delhi, NY
Christopher Boydston
Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Glenville, NY 12302  (Online Only)
Chris has over a decade of experience working with a diverse population. Through his experience as a therapist, he is well equipped to work with a wide array of clients. His experience as a first responder uniquely positions him to work with police, firefighters, emergency medical providers and military. Chris is also trained in motivational interviewing and CBT which positions him well to work with clients navigating life transitions, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders.
Chris has over a decade of experience working with a diverse population. Through his experience as a therapist, he is well equipped to work with a wide array of clients. His experience as a first responder uniquely positions him to work with police, firefighters, emergency medical providers and military. Chris is also trained in motivational interviewing and CBT which positions him well to work with clients navigating life transitions, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders.
(518) 808-3890 View (518) 808-3890
Photo of Amanda N Karam, Counselor in Delhi, NY
Amanda N Karam
Counselor, LMHC, FNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warwick, NY 10990
My approach includes an eclectic variety of CBT techniques, DBT Skills, Mindfulness Coping Strategies and general motivational interviewing.
I believe that ultimate wellness encompasses 8 different aspects of life. Wellness is more than just health. The model I use in therapy includes physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual, environmental, occupational, and intellectual wellness. This brings a holistic approach to evidence-based theories which helps create a supportive environment conducive to growth. It is often difficult to identify where we struggle and how to blend these 8 branches to find homeostasis and balance. My goal as a therapist is to help bridge the gap and provide a safe environment for individuals to explore this therapeutic journey.
My approach includes an eclectic variety of CBT techniques, DBT Skills, Mindfulness Coping Strategies and general motivational interviewing.
I believe that ultimate wellness encompasses 8 different aspects of life. Wellness is more than just health. The model I use in therapy includes physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual, environmental, occupational, and intellectual wellness. This brings a holistic approach to evidence-based theories which helps create a supportive environment conducive to growth. It is often difficult to identify where we struggle and how to blend these 8 branches to find homeostasis and balance. My goal as a therapist is to help bridge the gap and provide a safe environment for individuals to explore this therapeutic journey.
(845) 203-8531 View (845) 203-8531
Photo of Donnie Joseph, Counselor in Delhi, NY
Donnie Joseph
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
Donnie embraces an eclectic therapeutic approach in therapy using trauma-informed care, Socratic dialogue, motivational interviewing, bibliotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to the circumstances and needs of his clients.
Donnie Joseph has 27 years of experience working in social service and counseling spaces. During that time he has worked to counsel and support people during challenging times in their lives- whether in a psychiatric unit, emergency department, an outpatient substance abuse program, a long-term residential adolescent program, or a stabilization unit, Donnie considers it an honor and a privilege to stand alongside people and be a source of support during these vulnerable times.
Donnie embraces an eclectic therapeutic approach in therapy using trauma-informed care, Socratic dialogue, motivational interviewing, bibliotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to the circumstances and needs of his clients.
Donnie Joseph has 27 years of experience working in social service and counseling spaces. During that time he has worked to counsel and support people during challenging times in their lives- whether in a psychiatric unit, emergency department, an outpatient substance abuse program, a long-term residential adolescent program, or a stabilization unit, Donnie considers it an honor and a privilege to stand alongside people and be a source of support during these vulnerable times.
(845) 539-1372 View (845) 539-1372
Photo of Anna Pavia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Anna Pavia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
East Syracuse, NY 13057
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive experience working with a variety of psychological issues, including, depression, anxiety, adjustment/relationship issues, loss/grief, medical/chronic illness, trauma-related distress, low self esteem, anger management and disordered eating. I believe that an integrative approach is crucial when working with my clients and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing along with being certified as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive experience working with a variety of psychological issues, including, depression, anxiety, adjustment/relationship issues, loss/grief, medical/chronic illness, trauma-related distress, low self esteem, anger management and disordered eating. I believe that an integrative approach is crucial when working with my clients and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing along with being certified as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider.
(315) 658-6275 View (315) 658-6275
Photo of Christopher Michael Dennehy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Christopher Michael Dennehy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, M-CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561
I'm specifically trained in Individual, Couples and Family Gestalt Psychotherapy, accentuated by cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing strategies, Family Systems theory, rational emotive theory, client centered and solution focused strategies.
If you are seeking to regain who you once were, uncover who you know you could be, become who you want to be, build on who you already are, or all the above, we can do that together. Life is something that just is; we are what happens in it. I work with you to reclaim what may seem out of your control, to step back into the driver's seat of your own life. We all struggle at times and it is not about how strong or weak we are, but how much support we have.
I'm specifically trained in Individual, Couples and Family Gestalt Psychotherapy, accentuated by cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing strategies, Family Systems theory, rational emotive theory, client centered and solution focused strategies.
If you are seeking to regain who you once were, uncover who you know you could be, become who you want to be, build on who you already are, or all the above, we can do that together. Life is something that just is; we are what happens in it. I work with you to reclaim what may seem out of your control, to step back into the driver's seat of your own life. We all struggle at times and it is not about how strong or weak we are, but how much support we have.
(845) 535-4310 View (845) 535-4310
Photo of Eliza Vilteor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delhi, NY
Eliza Vilteor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nanuet, NY 10954  (Online Only)
I draw from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I do not believe one size fits all approach. Whether you are struggling with a specific issue such as anxiety, depression, work related issues, career challenges, familial dynamics, PTSD, DV survivor, romantic relationship, friendships, women related issues, or just need someone to talk to, I am here to listen and support you every step of the way. I am also here to help you identify maladaptive patterns, overcome barriers, and challenges that impact reaching your goals.
I draw from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I do not believe one size fits all approach. Whether you are struggling with a specific issue such as anxiety, depression, work related issues, career challenges, familial dynamics, PTSD, DV survivor, romantic relationship, friendships, women related issues, or just need someone to talk to, I am here to listen and support you every step of the way. I am also here to help you identify maladaptive patterns, overcome barriers, and challenges that impact reaching your goals.
(845) 576-6106 View (845) 576-6106
Photo of Briana Kreamer, Counselor in Delhi, NY
Briana Kreamer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Troy, NY 12180
Hi, I am Briana Kreamer, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 4 years of clinical experience. I am comfortable meeting with all types of clients, focusing on depression, anxiety, life stressors, life transitions, and interpersonal concerns. I have worked with various clients with diagnoses, most frequently depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance misuse. I pull from different types of therapy that include Cognitive Behavioral, SFBT, Narrative, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based. I believe in approaching each client openly and with empathy to help find the best way to help the client meet their goals.
Hi, I am Briana Kreamer, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 4 years of clinical experience. I am comfortable meeting with all types of clients, focusing on depression, anxiety, life stressors, life transitions, and interpersonal concerns. I have worked with various clients with diagnoses, most frequently depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance misuse. I pull from different types of therapy that include Cognitive Behavioral, SFBT, Narrative, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based. I believe in approaching each client openly and with empathy to help find the best way to help the client meet their goals.
(518) 990-7789 View (518) 990-7789

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Motivational Interviewing Therapists

How does motivational interviewing work?

Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathizes, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.

Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?

Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviors in children.

How long does motivational interviewing last?

Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.

What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?

In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behavior.