Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Scotch Plains, NJ

Photo of LeighAnn Lively, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LeighAnn Lively
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
LeighAnn can help you learn to control anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, peer/relationship problems, and adjustment/life transitions. She takes a motivational interviewing approach and utilizes techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy. LeighAnn will listen and help identify your goals and values as well as your thought patterns surrounding an issue. Her goal is to help individuals grow in alignment with a version of themselves that they are confident in.
LeighAnn can help you learn to control anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, peer/relationship problems, and adjustment/life transitions. She takes a motivational interviewing approach and utilizes techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy. LeighAnn will listen and help identify your goals and values as well as your thought patterns surrounding an issue. Her goal is to help individuals grow in alignment with a version of themselves that they are confident in.
(908) 460-7267 View (908) 460-7267
Photo of Angela Campbell-Osbourne, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Campbell-Osbourne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I am trained in and utilized several approaches including, but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, ARC-Grow, Nurtured Heart, Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of New Jersey who is a compassionate advocate for the emancipation of individuals' minds. I have worked twenty-one (21) years in the mental health service field, impacting the lives of individuals with emotional and mental issues, including anxiety, depression, addiction, developmental & learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and mental health illnesses. I offer counseling services to youth, adults, couples, and families. I am a Christian who strives to honor and practice Christ's Commandments of loving the Lord and my fellow human being by showing warmth.
I am trained in and utilized several approaches including, but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, ARC-Grow, Nurtured Heart, Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of New Jersey who is a compassionate advocate for the emancipation of individuals' minds. I have worked twenty-one (21) years in the mental health service field, impacting the lives of individuals with emotional and mental issues, including anxiety, depression, addiction, developmental & learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and mental health illnesses. I offer counseling services to youth, adults, couples, and families. I am a Christian who strives to honor and practice Christ's Commandments of loving the Lord and my fellow human being by showing warmth.
(908) 498-7857 View (908) 498-7857
Photo of Blake Kirschner, PsyD, Psychologist
Blake Kirschner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I have trained in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
If you are struggling with something, no matter how big or small, I invite you to join me in working towards the changes you deserve. My practice is science-informed and client-centered, meaning I tailor my approach to the specific needs of each individual person. Every one of my clients is treated with professionalism and extra doses of empathy and compassion. We are all human, after all! Even in difficult circumstances, I have been amazed and humbled by my client's ability to learn and grow.
I have trained in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
If you are struggling with something, no matter how big or small, I invite you to join me in working towards the changes you deserve. My practice is science-informed and client-centered, meaning I tailor my approach to the specific needs of each individual person. Every one of my clients is treated with professionalism and extra doses of empathy and compassion. We are all human, after all! Even in difficult circumstances, I have been amazed and humbled by my client's ability to learn and grow.
(973) 718-2292 View (973) 718-2292
Photo of Kayla Kearney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Kearney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
In using a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Strength-based approaches, you can feel comfortable and supported working towards becoming your best self.
Has life thrown you a curve ball and knocked you off your game? Do you feel confused about how to reign in the emotions that feel out of control? Does the current state of the world have you on edge? You're not alone. I have the knowledge and tools to help you break through the obstacles in your way. Reach out. I am a phone call away.
In using a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Strength-based approaches, you can feel comfortable and supported working towards becoming your best self.
Has life thrown you a curve ball and knocked you off your game? Do you feel confused about how to reign in the emotions that feel out of control? Does the current state of the world have you on edge? You're not alone. I have the knowledge and tools to help you break through the obstacles in your way. Reach out. I am a phone call away.
(908) 624-3710 View (908) 624-3710
Photo of Alex Lesaski, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Lesaski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Alex utilizes approaches from Motivational Interviewing, Existential, Solution Focused, and Person-Centered therapies.
Alex has clinical experience with people seeking therapy for substance abuse issues, co-occurring mental health issues, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, and personal/professional growth and development. He has experience working with adults of all ages in individual and group therapy. Alex believes it is important for the client to feel supported, heard, and understood but also challenged to figure out their own path through the therapeutic process. He believes addressing issues in therapy can help people make real changes in their lives and gain more insight and awareness in who they are.
Alex utilizes approaches from Motivational Interviewing, Existential, Solution Focused, and Person-Centered therapies.
Alex has clinical experience with people seeking therapy for substance abuse issues, co-occurring mental health issues, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, and personal/professional growth and development. He has experience working with adults of all ages in individual and group therapy. Alex believes it is important for the client to feel supported, heard, and understood but also challenged to figure out their own path through the therapeutic process. He believes addressing issues in therapy can help people make real changes in their lives and gain more insight and awareness in who they are.
(908) 663-5816 View (908) 663-5816
Photo of Hilary Fineman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hilary Fineman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Hilary utilizes a client-centered, holistic approach applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychoeducation to help clients focus on their strengths and previous experiences in order to modify behaviors that impact their lives.
Hilary is experienced working with child survivors of child abuse and maltreatment who have been diagnosed with PTSD, Adjustment Disorders, Attachment Disorder, and behavioral issues. She also has experience providing individual and group therapy to clients on a variety of topics and areas of concern, including, but not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anger Management, Gender Identity, and coping with medical diagnoses. Most recently, Hilary completed postgraduate training on Perinatal Mood Disorders to assist women, men, and couples cope with infertility, pregnancy loss, postpartum depression and trauma.
Hilary utilizes a client-centered, holistic approach applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychoeducation to help clients focus on their strengths and previous experiences in order to modify behaviors that impact their lives.
Hilary is experienced working with child survivors of child abuse and maltreatment who have been diagnosed with PTSD, Adjustment Disorders, Attachment Disorder, and behavioral issues. She also has experience providing individual and group therapy to clients on a variety of topics and areas of concern, including, but not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anger Management, Gender Identity, and coping with medical diagnoses. Most recently, Hilary completed postgraduate training on Perinatal Mood Disorders to assist women, men, and couples cope with infertility, pregnancy loss, postpartum depression and trauma.
(908) 322-9623 View (908) 322-9623
Photo of Donna Lam, JD, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Lam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076  (Online Only)
Building a connection with you by actively listening, reflecting and expressing empathy for your needs is the starting point of our time together. I focus on developing a compassionate environment where I can assist you with exploring issues you are interested in changing. My approach includes cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing and mindfulness strategies that can help with identifying behaviors that have become roadblocks in your life. I encourage and positively reinforce your practice of healthy coping to increase resiliency and promote change.
Building a connection with you by actively listening, reflecting and expressing empathy for your needs is the starting point of our time together. I focus on developing a compassionate environment where I can assist you with exploring issues you are interested in changing. My approach includes cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing and mindfulness strategies that can help with identifying behaviors that have become roadblocks in your life. I encourage and positively reinforce your practice of healthy coping to increase resiliency and promote change.
(973) 671-5695 View (973) 671-5695
Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
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) 460-8325 View (908) 460-8325
Photo of Marisa Lutz, LAMFT, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAMFT, LSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
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.
(908) 873-3440 View (908) 873-3440
Photo of Asanta McKenzie, MA, LAC, Counselor
Asanta McKenzie
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I can help this client by implementing CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
My ideal client would be someone who shows up to their session eager to work towards a better version of themselves. This person may be dealing with some anxiety, dissociation, and or depression. This person may need social support, encouragement, and new hobbies. This person's goals may include implementing positive self-talk, planning activities for building self-esteem, and incorporating mindfulness practices to assist with their anxiety. This person wants more peace and balance in their life and relationships to help them feel more connected with themselves and others as well as decrease feelings of anxiety and depression.
I can help this client by implementing CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
My ideal client would be someone who shows up to their session eager to work towards a better version of themselves. This person may be dealing with some anxiety, dissociation, and or depression. This person may need social support, encouragement, and new hobbies. This person's goals may include implementing positive self-talk, planning activities for building self-esteem, and incorporating mindfulness practices to assist with their anxiety. This person wants more peace and balance in their life and relationships to help them feel more connected with themselves and others as well as decrease feelings of anxiety and depression.
(908) 739-6499 View (908) 739-6499
Photo of Samantha Powell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
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.
(908) 503-3621 View (908) 503-3621
Photo of Janelle Joseph, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Janelle Joseph
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Janelle utilizes several evidence-based practices within her approach including person-centered therapy (PCT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing.
Janelle Joseph is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of New Jersey. She is passionate about working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, low self-esteem, behavioral issues, school issues, and family conflicts. Janelle completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University and her master's degree in mental health counseling at St. Elizabeth University.
Janelle utilizes several evidence-based practices within her approach including person-centered therapy (PCT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing.
Janelle Joseph is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of New Jersey. She is passionate about working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, low self-esteem, behavioral issues, school issues, and family conflicts. Janelle completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University and her master's degree in mental health counseling at St. Elizabeth University.
(848) 777-4104 View (848) 777-4104
Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
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.
(732) 387-6668 View (732) 387-6668
Photo of Jolene Winsor, MA, LAC, NCC, MAT, Counselor
Jolene Winsor
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC, MAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I utilize a client-centered, integrative approach to counseling, incorporating evidenced-based practices as EMDR and IFS, which can help resolve feelings associated with traumatic events, along with Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), which can assist in adjusting our thought processes to improve our mental wellbeing.
Do you find yourself feeling isolated in your feelings or struggles, like no one quite understands? Have you suffered a loss or experienced a life change that has resulted in grief? Do you feel as if you should have “moved on” by now or are “stuck” in the past? Do your struggles prevent you from feeling as if you can be fully present and enjoy your life as you would like to? Would you like to develop skills to assist you in living the life you desire? If so, I can help
I utilize a client-centered, integrative approach to counseling, incorporating evidenced-based practices as EMDR and IFS, which can help resolve feelings associated with traumatic events, along with Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), which can assist in adjusting our thought processes to improve our mental wellbeing.
Do you find yourself feeling isolated in your feelings or struggles, like no one quite understands? Have you suffered a loss or experienced a life change that has resulted in grief? Do you feel as if you should have “moved on” by now or are “stuck” in the past? Do your struggles prevent you from feeling as if you can be fully present and enjoy your life as you would like to? Would you like to develop skills to assist you in living the life you desire? If so, I can help
(908) 923-3895 View (908) 923-3895
Photo of Dina P. Brue, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dina P. Brue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
"What good is psychotherapy if you're up to your a** in alligators?" A phrase that was used by my favorite professor in graduate school. My goal as a licensed clinical social worker is to meet individuals where they are in life presently, whether they need to process ongoing psychological challenges, or current anxiety and stress related to everyday concerns. With my patients, I want to help process through feelings, thoughts, and behaviors and help facilitate a better understanding of any underlying issues. Ultimately, helping individuals to be able to live a more healthy and productive life.
"What good is psychotherapy if you're up to your a** in alligators?" A phrase that was used by my favorite professor in graduate school. My goal as a licensed clinical social worker is to meet individuals where they are in life presently, whether they need to process ongoing psychological challenges, or current anxiety and stress related to everyday concerns. With my patients, I want to help process through feelings, thoughts, and behaviors and help facilitate a better understanding of any underlying issues. Ultimately, helping individuals to be able to live a more healthy and productive life.
(646) 699-3923 View (646) 699-3923
Photo of Rebecca Levy-Cruz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Levy-Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I'm glad you are here! Its the first step in improving your life. If you are feeling weighed down by anxious thoughts or sad feelings or just having difficulty dealing with life's stressors then you are in the right place. "The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another." -William James.
I'm glad you are here! Its the first step in improving your life. If you are feeling weighed down by anxious thoughts or sad feelings or just having difficulty dealing with life's stressors then you are in the right place. "The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another." -William James.
(862) 254-8765 View (862) 254-8765
Photo of Marie A. Di Iorio, MSW, LCSW
Marie A. Di Iorio
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Hello! Thank you for visiting my page. I provide psychotherapy to clients who are looking for some extra support—someone in their corner to help them navigate and cope with life’s challenges. My therapy practice focuses on teens and adults (of all ages).
Hello! Thank you for visiting my page. I provide psychotherapy to clients who are looking for some extra support—someone in their corner to help them navigate and cope with life’s challenges. My therapy practice focuses on teens and adults (of all ages).
(908) 650-1566 View (908) 650-1566
Photo of Marie Moise Fevrier, EdD, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marie Moise Fevrier
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Healing is a mind, body and soul interaction that results in wholeness. Mental illness or stress of any kind takes a toll on the mind and one's overall wellbeing, causing great dissatisfaction and living in a state of existence instead of living fully. I can help with navigating through these issues and walking with you through your path of healing. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over fifteen years of experience. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy and have been in private practice for the past twelve years. I look forward to beginning a healing journey with you.
Healing is a mind, body and soul interaction that results in wholeness. Mental illness or stress of any kind takes a toll on the mind and one's overall wellbeing, causing great dissatisfaction and living in a state of existence instead of living fully. I can help with navigating through these issues and walking with you through your path of healing. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over fifteen years of experience. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy and have been in private practice for the past twelve years. I look forward to beginning a healing journey with you.
(201) 632-3989 View (201) 632-3989
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, PhD, NCC, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(908) 827-6748 View (908) 827-6748
Photo of Lidia Abrams - Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc, PhD
Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
(908) 365-1160 x110 View (908) 365-1160 x110

See more therapy options for Scotch Plains

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.