Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Savanna Stanton-Ameisen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Savanna Stanton-Ameisen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My ideal client would be someone motivated to engage in motivational interviewing and change work.
My ideal client would be someone motivated to engage in motivational interviewing and change work.
(412) 538-6393 View (412) 538-6393
Photo of Joanne R Bissell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Joanne R Bissell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCM, CMIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I utilize evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stage of life issues.
I utilize evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stage of life issues.
(412) 214-7114 View (412) 214-7114
Photo of Lauryn Kalka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Lauryn Kalka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I utilize many techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing in session to develop goals.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
I utilize many techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing in session to develop goals.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
(412) 612-2355 View (412) 612-2355
Photo of Theresa Lupcho, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Theresa Lupcho
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
Theresa implements both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and motivational interviewing interventions in her practice.
Theresa Lupcho is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a passion for providing the utmost quality of services to individuals, couples, and families struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, abuse, ADHD, stress, family conflict, life transitions, grief, and more. Theresa received her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Geneva College, where she focused her studies on Marriage and Families.
Theresa implements both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and motivational interviewing interventions in her practice.
Theresa Lupcho is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a passion for providing the utmost quality of services to individuals, couples, and families struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, abuse, ADHD, stress, family conflict, life transitions, grief, and more. Theresa received her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Geneva College, where she focused her studies on Marriage and Families.
(855) 924-4351 View (855) 924-4351
Photo of Noah Potvin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Noah Potvin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
As a licensed professional counselor and a board-certified music therapist, I've worked with adults across the age spectrum for 15 years on chronic and progressive illnesses, death and dying, pre-bereavement, and grief. When facing such significant life transitions, it is important that all involved individuals have a compassionate space for processing their experiences and to plan for the future. Using a combination of motivational interviewing, humanism, and Gestalt therapy, we will explore avenues for moving forward in ways helping you feel empowered and emboldened, ready to face the coming journey and the meaning it may bring.
As a licensed professional counselor and a board-certified music therapist, I've worked with adults across the age spectrum for 15 years on chronic and progressive illnesses, death and dying, pre-bereavement, and grief. When facing such significant life transitions, it is important that all involved individuals have a compassionate space for processing their experiences and to plan for the future. Using a combination of motivational interviewing, humanism, and Gestalt therapy, we will explore avenues for moving forward in ways helping you feel empowered and emboldened, ready to face the coming journey and the meaning it may bring.
(412) 612-2588 View (412) 612-2588
Photo of Rebecca Zipay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Rebecca Zipay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
I often draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapies.
Have you been yearning to make positive changes in your life? Don’t know where to start? Struggling with depression, anxiety or relationship challenges? I am an experienced, creative and knowledgeable counselor dedicated to working with you to meet your goals.
I often draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapies.
Have you been yearning to make positive changes in your life? Don’t know where to start? Struggling with depression, anxiety or relationship challenges? I am an experienced, creative and knowledgeable counselor dedicated to working with you to meet your goals.
(878) 444-2963 View (878) 444-2963
Photo of Christine Cremonni, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Christine Cremonni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I utilize CBT techniques and motivational interviewing primarily to create structure for the client to develop a healthier sense of self and develop tools to manage their stressors.
My ideal candidate is struggling with intrusive thoughts and anxiety; they need both a safe space to share their thoughts and emotions, as well as guidance; their goals are to develop a healthier relationship with themself, as well as develop coping skills and tools to manage their mental health concerns better.
I utilize CBT techniques and motivational interviewing primarily to create structure for the client to develop a healthier sense of self and develop tools to manage their stressors.
My ideal candidate is struggling with intrusive thoughts and anxiety; they need both a safe space to share their thoughts and emotions, as well as guidance; their goals are to develop a healthier relationship with themself, as well as develop coping skills and tools to manage their mental health concerns better.
(412) 912-4040 View (412) 912-4040
Photo of Best Life Wellness Center - Michele Becker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Best Life Wellness Center - Michele Becker, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Treatment techniques include: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavior Therapy and motivational interviewing (MI).
NOW Accepting NEW Clients! Hello and welcome! I practice with the belief that YOU are the expert of your own life and the person who knows what is best for you. That said, sometimes we all get a little stuck along the way. Since you're here, you (or a loved one) are likely contemplating making some positive changes and could benefit from some help and guidance. Whether you are challenged with anxiety, depression, PTSD, past trauma, or something else, I believe we can work together to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. My sessions are goal oriented and future focused, guided by you, working at a comfortable pace.
Treatment techniques include: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavior Therapy and motivational interviewing (MI).
NOW Accepting NEW Clients! Hello and welcome! I practice with the belief that YOU are the expert of your own life and the person who knows what is best for you. That said, sometimes we all get a little stuck along the way. Since you're here, you (or a loved one) are likely contemplating making some positive changes and could benefit from some help and guidance. Whether you are challenged with anxiety, depression, PTSD, past trauma, or something else, I believe we can work together to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. My sessions are goal oriented and future focused, guided by you, working at a comfortable pace.
(412) 754-7379 View (412) 754-7379
Photo of Monica Waitkus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Monica Waitkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Depending on your personalized needs, I may incorporate the following treatment modalities into the therapeutic process: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Focused treatment.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
Depending on your personalized needs, I may incorporate the following treatment modalities into the therapeutic process: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Focused treatment.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
(412) 528-6365 View (412) 528-6365
Photo of Michael Leone in Pittsburgh, PA
Michael Leone
MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
My treatment approaches include motivational interviewing and behavioral activation initially while working from an embodied trauma-informed psychoanalytic perspective, which fosters deep and lasting change.
As a Psychotherapist and Physician Assistant with nearly a decade of mental health experience in inpatient, outpatient, and addiction treatment settings, I’m particularly grounded in the diversity of people’s suffering and what helps provide relief. Whether you struggle with the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, intense inner criticism, or ongoing shame, my first priority is always to create a space where meaningful therapeutic work can take hold. Holding space for caring, honest self-examination while I remain actively and supportively involved are essential ingredients for personal growth and progress.
My treatment approaches include motivational interviewing and behavioral activation initially while working from an embodied trauma-informed psychoanalytic perspective, which fosters deep and lasting change.
As a Psychotherapist and Physician Assistant with nearly a decade of mental health experience in inpatient, outpatient, and addiction treatment settings, I’m particularly grounded in the diversity of people’s suffering and what helps provide relief. Whether you struggle with the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, intense inner criticism, or ongoing shame, my first priority is always to create a space where meaningful therapeutic work can take hold. Holding space for caring, honest self-examination while I remain actively and supportively involved are essential ingredients for personal growth and progress.
(412) 776-6407 View (412) 776-6407
Photo of Molly Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Molly Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from a combination of Gestalt Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal, and Cognitive Behavior theories.
Most people seek therapy when they are in a vulnerable state. In a warm and supportive atmosphere offering personal safety, I'll work with you in a highly personalized approach tailored to your specific needs. The goal is to support you in attaining personal growth that taps the best in you. I utilize both a Positive Psychology and Gestalt Therapy approach. Gestalt Therapy is an expressive, action-based approach to growth, which supports an individual's ability to notice self in the moment and understand one's meaning-making process. This is a collaborative process between therapist and client.
I draw from a combination of Gestalt Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal, and Cognitive Behavior theories.
Most people seek therapy when they are in a vulnerable state. In a warm and supportive atmosphere offering personal safety, I'll work with you in a highly personalized approach tailored to your specific needs. The goal is to support you in attaining personal growth that taps the best in you. I utilize both a Positive Psychology and Gestalt Therapy approach. Gestalt Therapy is an expressive, action-based approach to growth, which supports an individual's ability to notice self in the moment and understand one's meaning-making process. This is a collaborative process between therapist and client.
(412) 888-0467 View (412) 888-0467
Photo of Lindsay Brain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Lindsay Brain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I use a variety of treatment modalities that are client centered, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused, and structural family therapy to treat multiple mental health and behavioral issues.
I am dedicated and hard working with over 23 years of experience in the mental health field serving children, young adults, and families. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, and depression and have an extensive background in helping children with behavioral issues and their families. By developing a strong therapeutic alliance, I am able to offer skill development and confidence building to support clients in processing events and decision making. Ideal clients will be open and honest in a supportive, non-judgmental setting to learn skills and increase happiness and hopefulness.
I use a variety of treatment modalities that are client centered, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused, and structural family therapy to treat multiple mental health and behavioral issues.
I am dedicated and hard working with over 23 years of experience in the mental health field serving children, young adults, and families. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, and depression and have an extensive background in helping children with behavioral issues and their families. By developing a strong therapeutic alliance, I am able to offer skill development and confidence building to support clients in processing events and decision making. Ideal clients will be open and honest in a supportive, non-judgmental setting to learn skills and increase happiness and hopefulness.
(412) 453-4523 View (412) 453-4523
Photo of Sandra Maria Pattinato, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Sandra Maria Pattinato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I draw from CBT, DBT and Motivational Interviewing techniques to help my clients develop healthy coping strategies to make positive changes in their lives.
I have 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in a number of different settings and with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. My priority is to meet the client where he or she is and help him or her by providing support, aid and guidance, so the client can work through processing the past, identifying present patterns and taking steps toward long lasting changes while addressing the client’s fears, challenges and worries along the way.
I draw from CBT, DBT and Motivational Interviewing techniques to help my clients develop healthy coping strategies to make positive changes in their lives.
I have 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in a number of different settings and with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. My priority is to meet the client where he or she is and help him or her by providing support, aid and guidance, so the client can work through processing the past, identifying present patterns and taking steps toward long lasting changes while addressing the client’s fears, challenges and worries along the way.
(412) 547-5734 View (412) 547-5734
Photo of Barbara Lynn Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Barbara Lynn Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAADC, CCDPD, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Barbara utilizes treatment modalities such as: Cognitive Therapy, Existential Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy and Developmental Psychology.
Barbara is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in Mental Health Counseling. Barbara received her Master's Degree from Slippery Rock University in Psychology. Her counseling approach is eclectic in nature and adjusted to meet the existing needs of the client in relationship to their own individual developmental needs.
Barbara utilizes treatment modalities such as: Cognitive Therapy, Existential Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy and Developmental Psychology.
Barbara is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in Mental Health Counseling. Barbara received her Master's Degree from Slippery Rock University in Psychology. Her counseling approach is eclectic in nature and adjusted to meet the existing needs of the client in relationship to their own individual developmental needs.
(412) 685-3190 View (412) 685-3190
Photo of Jodi Lynn Buzzell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Jodi Lynn Buzzell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma, Motivational Interviewing and effective Parenting Techniques.
Life has its challenges can be overwhelming and stressful. Individuals, families and couples can be effected by these issues . If you are feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from emotional or substance uses issues, experiencing family or relationship conflicts, let my 12 years of experience working with children, adults, families and couples, assist. My approach for families and couples, is exploring patterns in relationship dynamics, providing insight and improving communication . I have worked with adults and children to develop coping skills to manage emotional issues. Therapy is client centered, strength based and the goal is to empower and reach full potential.
I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma, Motivational Interviewing and effective Parenting Techniques.
Life has its challenges can be overwhelming and stressful. Individuals, families and couples can be effected by these issues . If you are feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from emotional or substance uses issues, experiencing family or relationship conflicts, let my 12 years of experience working with children, adults, families and couples, assist. My approach for families and couples, is exploring patterns in relationship dynamics, providing insight and improving communication . I have worked with adults and children to develop coping skills to manage emotional issues. Therapy is client centered, strength based and the goal is to empower and reach full potential.
(724) 216-6773 View (724) 216-6773
Photo of Sarah Heitzenrater, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Sarah Heitzenrater
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
As part of the therapeutic journey, I implement various techniques from CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing.
As a National Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor I aim to create a safe, inclusive and affirming space for every one of my clients. I prioritize the therapeutic relationships that I build with each client and acknowledge the importance of having a trusting and supportive environment. I have a special interest in diverse LGBTQ+ issues, as well as, experience working with anxiety, various mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and addiction.
As part of the therapeutic journey, I implement various techniques from CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing.
As a National Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor I aim to create a safe, inclusive and affirming space for every one of my clients. I prioritize the therapeutic relationships that I build with each client and acknowledge the importance of having a trusting and supportive environment. I have a special interest in diverse LGBTQ+ issues, as well as, experience working with anxiety, various mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and addiction.
(412) 275-5556 View (412) 275-5556
Photo of Peace of Mind Therapy and Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Peace of Mind Therapy and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15218  (Online Only)
Kionna has several counseling styles to fit her client’s specific needs: cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, and structural family therapy for families.
Kionna’s passion is to help her clients reach their full potential by decreasing stress and increasing peace. Her firm belief is that the client is the expert of their own life and feels it is important to integrate their own wants and needs in their mental health therapy. She understands what it is like to not see the light at the end of the tunnel and is passionate about being a support to help motivate and uplift her clients. Kionna’s goal is to provide her clients with the tools and techniques to reach their full potential—empowering them to ultimately take full ownership of their mental health journey.
Kionna has several counseling styles to fit her client’s specific needs: cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, and structural family therapy for families.
Kionna’s passion is to help her clients reach their full potential by decreasing stress and increasing peace. Her firm belief is that the client is the expert of their own life and feels it is important to integrate their own wants and needs in their mental health therapy. She understands what it is like to not see the light at the end of the tunnel and is passionate about being a support to help motivate and uplift her clients. Kionna’s goal is to provide her clients with the tools and techniques to reach their full potential—empowering them to ultimately take full ownership of their mental health journey.
(412) 561-9449 View (412) 561-9449
Photo of Elise Klavon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Elise Klavon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I have been interested in helping people achieve peace and tranquility all my life. My great passion as a therapist is to bring healing through different therapeutic techniques. I most often utilize modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing in treatment. I received a Master’s in Science from Carlow University and am currently working towards my licensure in pursuit of achieving the title of a Licensed Professional Counselor. It has been a lifelong goal of mine to help people gain insight into challenging aspects of their life.
I have been interested in helping people achieve peace and tranquility all my life. My great passion as a therapist is to bring healing through different therapeutic techniques. I most often utilize modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing in treatment. I received a Master’s in Science from Carlow University and am currently working towards my licensure in pursuit of achieving the title of a Licensed Professional Counselor. It has been a lifelong goal of mine to help people gain insight into challenging aspects of their life.
(412) 850-2375 x005 View (412) 850-2375 x005
Photo of Megan Lindeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Megan Lindeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness approaches are used as well.
I believe that people genuinely do the best they can and that we always have an opportunity to learn and improve. We all experience joys and sorrows that can impact our daily functioning. Sometimes these experiences can make us feel “stuck.” Together we can build a tool box with strategies to empower you in everyday life. A growth-promoting and caring atmosphere will be provided to help you build self-awareness, find inner peace, discover your strengths, and help you to find balance in your life.
ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness approaches are used as well.
I believe that people genuinely do the best they can and that we always have an opportunity to learn and improve. We all experience joys and sorrows that can impact our daily functioning. Sometimes these experiences can make us feel “stuck.” Together we can build a tool box with strategies to empower you in everyday life. A growth-promoting and caring atmosphere will be provided to help you build self-awareness, find inner peace, discover your strengths, and help you to find balance in your life.
(412) 540-4141 View (412) 540-4141
Photo of Daneya Lynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Daneya Lynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I pull from an array of evidence -based therapeutic modalities, including but not limited to psychodynamics, systems theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
My ideal client is introspective, honest, and engaged in doing the work necessary for personal growth. I am passionate about helping others heal from trauma, especially attachment trauma from childhood, and I believe that looking into your past can help you explore how you became the person you are today and grow into the person you want to be.
I pull from an array of evidence -based therapeutic modalities, including but not limited to psychodynamics, systems theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
My ideal client is introspective, honest, and engaged in doing the work necessary for personal growth. I am passionate about helping others heal from trauma, especially attachment trauma from childhood, and I believe that looking into your past can help you explore how you became the person you are today and grow into the person you want to be.
(412) 312-3091 View (412) 312-3091
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.