Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Columbus, OH

I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Trauma-Informed Care, among others.
As a Licensed Social Worker, I am dedicated to helping clients become their best selves. My work as a therapist is rooted in social justice, equity and approaching our work together from a holistic lens. I work collaboratively with my clients and I understand that you are the expert of your own experiences. I believe that mental health is not isolated and the connection between mind, body and spirit contributes to our overall wellbeing.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Trauma-Informed Care, among others.
As a Licensed Social Worker, I am dedicated to helping clients become their best selves. My work as a therapist is rooted in social justice, equity and approaching our work together from a holistic lens. I work collaboratively with my clients and I understand that you are the expert of your own experiences. I believe that mental health is not isolated and the connection between mind, body and spirit contributes to our overall wellbeing.

Victory Mental Health Services of Columbus, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, MEd
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
I am a certified Trauma Focused clinician (TF-CBT) and have completed training in Grief Counseling and Motivational Interviewing.
How many times in life do you put off doing what you want or need? Sometimes your own fears might get in the way. Other times, you might fear what your friends, family or community will think or say. When it comes to your health, you are what matters. If you are experiencing mood changes, feelings of sadness, isolation, fear or anger and want to find the source of these emotions, schedule an appointment today. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not a weakness. Confidential services are available for children and adults.
I am a certified Trauma Focused clinician (TF-CBT) and have completed training in Grief Counseling and Motivational Interviewing.
How many times in life do you put off doing what you want or need? Sometimes your own fears might get in the way. Other times, you might fear what your friends, family or community will think or say. When it comes to your health, you are what matters. If you are experiencing mood changes, feelings of sadness, isolation, fear or anger and want to find the source of these emotions, schedule an appointment today. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not a weakness. Confidential services are available for children and adults.

Deborah’s client-centered perspective utilizes tools of motivational interviewing, systems theory, developmental theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy.
My approach is tailored to the needs of clients. I do have a client-centered perspective. I work with youth, families, individuals, and groups with mental health disorders and addiction disorders. My hope and goal is to help you move forward in a meaningful and healthy way. I enjoy working with all ages across the lifespan.
Deborah’s client-centered perspective utilizes tools of motivational interviewing, systems theory, developmental theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy.
My approach is tailored to the needs of clients. I do have a client-centered perspective. I work with youth, families, individuals, and groups with mental health disorders and addiction disorders. My hope and goal is to help you move forward in a meaningful and healthy way. I enjoy working with all ages across the lifespan.

I help adults struggling with major mental illness and or substance abuse to manage their thoughts and understand the dynamics of feelings thoughts and behaviors through evidence based practices likE CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am Walter williams a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling degree from Illinois Institute of Technology. I have over 20 years experience in rehabilitation psychology in a variety of settings. I have done crisis intervention in both inpatient and penal institutions. I have worked as a team leader for Assertive Community Treatment teams servicing chronically mentally ill people in the community. I have performed intake assessment, crisis intervention, suicide assessments, and brief grief counseling in multiple settings.
I help adults struggling with major mental illness and or substance abuse to manage their thoughts and understand the dynamics of feelings thoughts and behaviors through evidence based practices likE CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am Walter williams a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling degree from Illinois Institute of Technology. I have over 20 years experience in rehabilitation psychology in a variety of settings. I have done crisis intervention in both inpatient and penal institutions. I have worked as a team leader for Assertive Community Treatment teams servicing chronically mentally ill people in the community. I have performed intake assessment, crisis intervention, suicide assessments, and brief grief counseling in multiple settings.

Therapeutic techniques can be integrated from Solution-Focused, Strengths-Based, Culturally Sensitive, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Psychodynamic, Eye Movement Desensitization and Restructuring (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults coping with challenges related to stress management, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, depression, conflict, PTSD, self-esteem, self-harming as well as many others. I have specialized training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) and utilizing EMDR with complex trauma and dissociation.
Therapeutic techniques can be integrated from Solution-Focused, Strengths-Based, Culturally Sensitive, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Psychodynamic, Eye Movement Desensitization and Restructuring (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults coping with challenges related to stress management, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, depression, conflict, PTSD, self-esteem, self-harming as well as many others. I have specialized training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) and utilizing EMDR with complex trauma and dissociation.

I incorporate aspects of mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy into my strength-based, person-centered approach.
My ideal client is motivated to work collaboratively to develop personalized, achievable goals. We would build from wherever the client is starting from, whether that is defining what is happening for them, learning coping skills, or delving into the past and making connections to the present. I would hope to work with people who are willing to look within themselves, grow, and be able to tolerate temporary discomfort to become the best version of themselves.
I incorporate aspects of mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy into my strength-based, person-centered approach.
My ideal client is motivated to work collaboratively to develop personalized, achievable goals. We would build from wherever the client is starting from, whether that is defining what is happening for them, learning coping skills, or delving into the past and making connections to the present. I would hope to work with people who are willing to look within themselves, grow, and be able to tolerate temporary discomfort to become the best version of themselves.

Incorporating motivational interviewing & ACT, I help clients work with identifying strengths to help achieve therapeutic goals, as well as applying a tangible practice to mindfulness.
Hello! My name is Jashala, I specialize in addictions counseling, anxiety & life transitions. I have experience with adolescents & adults. I believe in the courage & strength that it takes for an individual to reach out for extra support & appreciate the amount of vulnerability that a person shows in therapy.
Incorporating motivational interviewing & ACT, I help clients work with identifying strengths to help achieve therapeutic goals, as well as applying a tangible practice to mindfulness.
Hello! My name is Jashala, I specialize in addictions counseling, anxiety & life transitions. I have experience with adolescents & adults. I believe in the courage & strength that it takes for an individual to reach out for extra support & appreciate the amount of vulnerability that a person shows in therapy.

I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop self-awareness, build coping skills, and make meaningful changes in their lives.
I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe, heard, and valued. My sessions are collaborative and client-centered, offering a balance of empathy, encouragement, and practical tools to foster self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful growth. Working with me feels like having a compassionate guide who helps you
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop self-awareness, build coping skills, and make meaningful changes in their lives.
I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe, heard, and valued. My sessions are collaborative and client-centered, offering a balance of empathy, encouragement, and practical tools to foster self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful growth. Working with me feels like having a compassionate guide who helps you

CBT, SFT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness are all strategies with helping you cope with these issues, and find serenity.
Are you grappling with depression? Are you noticing life is difficult to cope with because of family issues? Dealing with marital issues or divorce? Is running around trying to fix things, prevent things, or cover for things driving you insane? Are you preparing to make a major life change or one happened to you unexpectedly? Are you struggling with your racial identity along with soul searching? Are things spiraling out of control in your life? Have you been ostracized by family/religious groups?
CBT, SFT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness are all strategies with helping you cope with these issues, and find serenity.
Are you grappling with depression? Are you noticing life is difficult to cope with because of family issues? Dealing with marital issues or divorce? Is running around trying to fix things, prevent things, or cover for things driving you insane? Are you preparing to make a major life change or one happened to you unexpectedly? Are you struggling with your racial identity along with soul searching? Are things spiraling out of control in your life? Have you been ostracized by family/religious groups?

Persona - Client-centered, Motivational interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I try to best understand how folks want their future to be different from their past or their present, and how they want it to be the same. Growth goals and maintenance goals are then established.
Persona - Client-centered, Motivational interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I try to best understand how folks want their future to be different from their past or their present, and how they want it to be the same. Growth goals and maintenance goals are then established.

I have received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through the Beck Institute and incorporate CBT techniques along with other evidence based practices such as mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment styles, DBT and ACT.
Are you feeling more overwhelmed, on edge, or more irritable than usual? Are you feeling overwhelmed by household chores and responsibilities? Are you struggling to adjust to a transition, or feeling unfulfilled or unappreciated and looking to make a change? I am here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space and to provide support. Taking the leap to start therapy for the first time, or finding a new provider, can be such a difficult and anxiety inducing process and I strive to make it as comfortable and stress free as possible.
I have received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through the Beck Institute and incorporate CBT techniques along with other evidence based practices such as mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment styles, DBT and ACT.
Are you feeling more overwhelmed, on edge, or more irritable than usual? Are you feeling overwhelmed by household chores and responsibilities? Are you struggling to adjust to a transition, or feeling unfulfilled or unappreciated and looking to make a change? I am here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space and to provide support. Taking the leap to start therapy for the first time, or finding a new provider, can be such a difficult and anxiety inducing process and I strive to make it as comfortable and stress free as possible.

I utilize a blend of treatment approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing (MI), psychodynamic therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with five years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults find healing, improve their mental well-being, and navigate challenges in life. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, life transitions, self-exploration, ADHD, and self-injury. I am also trained to use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for treating trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and self-injury. I completed my Master of Arts in Counseling at Huntington University.
I utilize a blend of treatment approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing (MI), psychodynamic therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with five years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults find healing, improve their mental well-being, and navigate challenges in life. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, life transitions, self-exploration, ADHD, and self-injury. I am also trained to use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for treating trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and self-injury. I completed my Master of Arts in Counseling at Huntington University.

My professional orientation is eclectic and I draw heavily from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential orientations for both conceptualizing client concerns as well as for effective interventions.
I have over 12 years of experience providing mental health therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in both private and public settings with all forms of payment and insurance. My lived experiences with mental illness and addiction allows me to connect with my clients on a deeper level and for that I am grateful.
My professional orientation is eclectic and I draw heavily from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential orientations for both conceptualizing client concerns as well as for effective interventions.
I have over 12 years of experience providing mental health therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in both private and public settings with all forms of payment and insurance. My lived experiences with mental illness and addiction allows me to connect with my clients on a deeper level and for that I am grateful.

I use a combination of classical talk therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, meditation, sensory activities, and motivational interviewing to help reveal your strengths and uncover helpful and unhelpful patterns in your thinking.
There are times in your life when you may feel helpless, depressed, anxious, or even be experiencing conflict with the people you love. You may also see a family member, child, or friend struggling and wonder what you can do to help them work through their negative feelings. When we are in dark places, it can be difficult to understand that healing and hope are possible. As a counselor, I have worked with adults, couples, families, and children. I can help you or your loved ones go from a place of frustration and sadness to healing and growth.
I use a combination of classical talk therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, meditation, sensory activities, and motivational interviewing to help reveal your strengths and uncover helpful and unhelpful patterns in your thinking.
There are times in your life when you may feel helpless, depressed, anxious, or even be experiencing conflict with the people you love. You may also see a family member, child, or friend struggling and wonder what you can do to help them work through their negative feelings. When we are in dark places, it can be difficult to understand that healing and hope are possible. As a counselor, I have worked with adults, couples, families, and children. I can help you or your loved ones go from a place of frustration and sadness to healing and growth.

I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Perinatal Mental Health, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Modification and Motivational Interviewing.
As a mom of three, I am passionate about helping other parents navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy and parenthood as well. Instead of being stuck in the trenches, I want to provide support during this journey. My goal is to provide as many tools as possible to help you feel better and equipped to manage all of your current symptoms.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Perinatal Mental Health, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Modification and Motivational Interviewing.
As a mom of three, I am passionate about helping other parents navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy and parenthood as well. Instead of being stuck in the trenches, I want to provide support during this journey. My goal is to provide as many tools as possible to help you feel better and equipped to manage all of your current symptoms.

In my practice, I utilize a blend of humanistic, strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, family systems, diversity-conscious, and motivational interviewing techniques to help individuals achieve their personal treatment goals.
I recognize that in today’s rapidly changing world, it is more important than ever to prioritize personal wellness and build resilience against life’s stressors. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Ohio, I have over six years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults seeking support for various mental health and behavioral concerns. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Bowling Green State University, graduating summa cum laude, and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University.
In my practice, I utilize a blend of humanistic, strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, family systems, diversity-conscious, and motivational interviewing techniques to help individuals achieve their personal treatment goals.
I recognize that in today’s rapidly changing world, it is more important than ever to prioritize personal wellness and build resilience against life’s stressors. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Ohio, I have over six years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults seeking support for various mental health and behavioral concerns. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Bowling Green State University, graduating summa cum laude, and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University.

I use a mix of EMDR therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy to provide insight and healing to a variety of needs, such as trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and perinatal and maternal mental health.
Do you wish more people understood the difference between PTSD and CPTSD?
Does your nervous system (fight or flight) need a reset?
Does it take trust for you to open up to people?
Have people told you that you "overthink things?"
Then I may be the right fit for you.
I use a mix of EMDR therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy to provide insight and healing to a variety of needs, such as trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and perinatal and maternal mental health.
Do you wish more people understood the difference between PTSD and CPTSD?
Does your nervous system (fight or flight) need a reset?
Does it take trust for you to open up to people?
Have people told you that you "overthink things?"
Then I may be the right fit for you.

My approaches to therapy are rooted in spirituality and evidenced-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Family Therapy, Gottman Methodology, strengths-based therapy, motivational interviewing, somatic experiencing, and meditation.
Our sessions will be a thoughtful and collaborative experience. Together, we will gradually establish trust in a safe, non-judgmental environment, where we can develop the skills necessary for you to progress in your life beyond the therapy room. I have personal and professional experience with individuals, couples, teenagers, and families seeking help with low self-esteem, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, personality disorders, PTSD, divorce and parenting issues.
My approaches to therapy are rooted in spirituality and evidenced-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Family Therapy, Gottman Methodology, strengths-based therapy, motivational interviewing, somatic experiencing, and meditation.
Our sessions will be a thoughtful and collaborative experience. Together, we will gradually establish trust in a safe, non-judgmental environment, where we can develop the skills necessary for you to progress in your life beyond the therapy room. I have personal and professional experience with individuals, couples, teenagers, and families seeking help with low self-esteem, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, personality disorders, PTSD, divorce and parenting issues.

Diarra Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Columbus, OH 43221
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational interviewing, Solutions Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Strength Based, and Trauma Informed Care.
Hey! My name is Diarra, like a princess' Tiara (but with a D). I enjoy working with older teens, college students, and young adults going through different transitions in life. I use both my education and Christian faith to help clients navigate and understand their life experiences. I aim to create a safe and encouraging environment where you feel heard, respected, and not judged. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, grief and loss, and trauma. As your therapist, I will do what it takes to best serve and guide you in the direction you want go.
My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational interviewing, Solutions Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Strength Based, and Trauma Informed Care.
Hey! My name is Diarra, like a princess' Tiara (but with a D). I enjoy working with older teens, college students, and young adults going through different transitions in life. I use both my education and Christian faith to help clients navigate and understand their life experiences. I aim to create a safe and encouraging environment where you feel heard, respected, and not judged. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, grief and loss, and trauma. As your therapist, I will do what it takes to best serve and guide you in the direction you want go.

I utilize many different therapeutic styles including narrative therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Welcome–I’m glad you’re here. My goal is to create an accepting and validating environment where you can explore your strengths and values to help navigate life’s challenges. I approach each session with curiosity and openness, striving to understand your unique experiences and priorities for counseling. My practice focuses on working with individuals grieving the loss of a loved one, particularly those impacted by suicide loss. I also enjoy working with young adults, those experiencing and anticipating life transitions, individuals who are neurodivergent, and people with disabilities and their families.
I utilize many different therapeutic styles including narrative therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Welcome–I’m glad you’re here. My goal is to create an accepting and validating environment where you can explore your strengths and values to help navigate life’s challenges. I approach each session with curiosity and openness, striving to understand your unique experiences and priorities for counseling. My practice focuses on working with individuals grieving the loss of a loved one, particularly those impacted by suicide loss. I also enjoy working with young adults, those experiencing and anticipating life transitions, individuals who are neurodivergent, and people with disabilities and their families.
See more therapy options for Columbus
Nearby Motivational Interviewing Therapists Searches for Columbus
- Bexley
- Blacklick
- Dublin
- Gahanna
- Grandview
- Grove City
- Hilliard
- New Albany
- Reynoldsburg
- Upper Arlington
- Westerville
- Worthington
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.