Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Anne Barbabella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in several modalities: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Motivational Interviewing and Harm Reduction.
For over 20 years, I have worked in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with all disorders from mild to severe and specialize in working with the dual diagnosed (mental health and addiction) population; especially those suffering with mood disorders, anxiety and trauma related issues. I am able to offer support to not only the client who is suffering but their family and support system as well. I believe that all people are capable of improving their life with hard work, openness and a desire for change.
I am trained in several modalities: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Motivational Interviewing and Harm Reduction.
For over 20 years, I have worked in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with all disorders from mild to severe and specialize in working with the dual diagnosed (mental health and addiction) population; especially those suffering with mood disorders, anxiety and trauma related issues. I am able to offer support to not only the client who is suffering but their family and support system as well. I believe that all people are capable of improving their life with hard work, openness and a desire for change.

I have been trained in Trauma Focused CBT as well as ACT and motivational interviewing.
Life can be exhausting, and sometimes it might feel like you just can’t manage everything. From school and work to relationships with friends and family, there is always a lot to juggle, and stress can build up quickly! When you’re overwhelmed because of a transition period or a traumatic event, your behavior, mood, and relationships are all impacted, and it can feel like you're spiraling or that things will never get better.
I have been trained in Trauma Focused CBT as well as ACT and motivational interviewing.
Life can be exhausting, and sometimes it might feel like you just can’t manage everything. From school and work to relationships with friends and family, there is always a lot to juggle, and stress can build up quickly! When you’re overwhelmed because of a transition period or a traumatic event, your behavior, mood, and relationships are all impacted, and it can feel like you're spiraling or that things will never get better.

I utilize my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindful-based therapy to meet clients where they are and help them get to where they want to be.
Are you grieving and dealing with change? Do you need help navigating anxiety around loss or life changes, even if they're positive ones? The ideal client is anyone who acknowledges they are open to change. As Yogi Berra famously said, "Ninety percent of this game is half mental, the other half is physical." Openness to thinking in new ways and then backing that up with new behaviors is crucial to successful change.
I utilize my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindful-based therapy to meet clients where they are and help them get to where they want to be.
Are you grieving and dealing with change? Do you need help navigating anxiety around loss or life changes, even if they're positive ones? The ideal client is anyone who acknowledges they are open to change. As Yogi Berra famously said, "Ninety percent of this game is half mental, the other half is physical." Openness to thinking in new ways and then backing that up with new behaviors is crucial to successful change.

I utilize many techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing in session to develop goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 15 + 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 Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 15 + 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 use an eclectic approach with a blend of techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Taking the first step to engage in counseling is the hardest part. My hope is that after you have taken that step that I can help you reach your full potential and manage the challenges that brought you to counseling through my client-centered, trauma-informed, and holistic approach.
I use an eclectic approach with a blend of techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Taking the first step to engage in counseling is the hardest part. My hope is that after you have taken that step that I can help you reach your full potential and manage the challenges that brought you to counseling through my client-centered, trauma-informed, and holistic approach.

Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.

I rely on evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while using a strength-based Solution Focused approach and incorporating the Stages of Change.
I have over two decades of experience working within various community mental health settings helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate emotional, behavioral, social, and mental health needs. I create a goal-oriented treatment for those experiencing, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intrapersonal conflict, relationship and communication issues, childhood trauma, stressful events, life transitions, and parenting needs.
I rely on evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while using a strength-based Solution Focused approach and incorporating the Stages of Change.
I have over two decades of experience working within various community mental health settings helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate emotional, behavioral, social, and mental health needs. I create a goal-oriented treatment for those experiencing, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intrapersonal conflict, relationship and communication issues, childhood trauma, stressful events, life transitions, and parenting needs.

I utilize EMDR regularly in sessions and also incorporate a variety of other therapeutic approaches including attachment-based therapies, parts work, polyvagal theory, motivational interviewing, and DBT/CBT.
My approach is rooted in the understanding that each person has a unique path to healing, and I strive to create a supportive space where growth and transformation can unfold. I specialize in working with adults navigating and healing from eating disorders, substance use, trauma, and complex trauma. I am fully trained in EMDR and am working towards certification. Additionally, I have pursued advanced training in treating eating disorders and substance use. I hold the Inclusive Eating Disorder Specialist credential (IEDS) and am a Certified Allied Addiction Practitioner (CAAP) through the PA Certification Board.
I utilize EMDR regularly in sessions and also incorporate a variety of other therapeutic approaches including attachment-based therapies, parts work, polyvagal theory, motivational interviewing, and DBT/CBT.
My approach is rooted in the understanding that each person has a unique path to healing, and I strive to create a supportive space where growth and transformation can unfold. I specialize in working with adults navigating and healing from eating disorders, substance use, trauma, and complex trauma. I am fully trained in EMDR and am working towards certification. Additionally, I have pursued advanced training in treating eating disorders and substance use. I hold the Inclusive Eating Disorder Specialist credential (IEDS) and am a Certified Allied Addiction Practitioner (CAAP) through the PA Certification Board.

Along with the typical (and very useful) therapy types such as CBT and DBT, I really enjoy weaving Motivational Interviewing and Strength-Based methods into my treatment.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am passionate about creating a safe space for clients to feel at ease with me. I see importance in helping others by being open and approachable, and valuing the importance of humor. I completed my undergraduate degree from Penn State, and went on to obtain my Master’s in Counseling from Chatham University. I enjoy working with teens to adults. I have experience working with suicidality, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, divorce, relationship issues, loss of identity, and more. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality.
Along with the typical (and very useful) therapy types such as CBT and DBT, I really enjoy weaving Motivational Interviewing and Strength-Based methods into my treatment.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am passionate about creating a safe space for clients to feel at ease with me. I see importance in helping others by being open and approachable, and valuing the importance of humor. I completed my undergraduate degree from Penn State, and went on to obtain my Master’s in Counseling from Chatham University. I enjoy working with teens to adults. I have experience working with suicidality, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, divorce, relationship issues, loss of identity, and more. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality.

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.

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, 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, discover your strengths, and help you to find balance in your life.

Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I offer CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential Therapy among other therapeutic modalities.
Please note the location change! In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
I offer CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential Therapy among other therapeutic modalities.
Please note the location change! In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.

Typically, I find that clients benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Motivational Interviewing to solve current issues, and can utilize Psychodynamic and culturally competent approaches to delve into more deep rooted issues.
In my counseling career, I have worked with various populations with diverse backgrounds and experiences. I've worked to tackle many issues with my clients. Some of the areas that I have worked closely with are depression, anger, trauma, grief and loss, addiction and recovery, anxiety, ADHD, and life adjustments and transitions.
Typically, I find that clients benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Motivational Interviewing to solve current issues, and can utilize Psychodynamic and culturally competent approaches to delve into more deep rooted issues.
In my counseling career, I have worked with various populations with diverse backgrounds and experiences. I've worked to tackle many issues with my clients. Some of the areas that I have worked closely with are depression, anger, trauma, grief and loss, addiction and recovery, anxiety, ADHD, and life adjustments and transitions.

I am also able to draw on techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help clients manage emotions, control behaviors, and goal plan.
I am currently accepting new clients with limited availability.
My goal as a therapist is to create an environment in which my clients can safely work though the complexities of their thoughts, feelings, and personal experience. While our modern lives are increasingly complex and daunting, we often struggle with the basic self-acceptance and interpersonal relating needed to open ourselves up to the potential both within ourselves and for satisfaction in our lives. The aim of the therapeutic process is to allow for insight and understanding through open, honest communication.
I am also able to draw on techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help clients manage emotions, control behaviors, and goal plan.
I am currently accepting new clients with limited availability.
My goal as a therapist is to create an environment in which my clients can safely work though the complexities of their thoughts, feelings, and personal experience. While our modern lives are increasingly complex and daunting, we often struggle with the basic self-acceptance and interpersonal relating needed to open ourselves up to the potential both within ourselves and for satisfaction in our lives. The aim of the therapeutic process is to allow for insight and understanding through open, honest communication.

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.

I support clients in developing changes in their thinking, emotions, and behaviors through evidence-based therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure with Response Prevention (ERP), and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi there. I'm Zach, and I'm glad you're here. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor whose passion is in helping adults feel more empowered, build self-esteem, and navigate life's challenges with clarity and confidence. Whether you're navigating a major life transition, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, struggling with substance use or OCD, or simply looking to understand yourself more deeply, I'm here to support you on your journey. Together, we'll build on your existing strengths, develop new coping skills, and work toward the goals that matter most to you. Located in Pittsburgh, I also offer virtual therapy across PA.
I support clients in developing changes in their thinking, emotions, and behaviors through evidence-based therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure with Response Prevention (ERP), and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi there. I'm Zach, and I'm glad you're here. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor whose passion is in helping adults feel more empowered, build self-esteem, and navigate life's challenges with clarity and confidence. Whether you're navigating a major life transition, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, struggling with substance use or OCD, or simply looking to understand yourself more deeply, I'm here to support you on your journey. Together, we'll build on your existing strengths, develop new coping skills, and work toward the goals that matter most to you. Located in Pittsburgh, I also offer virtual therapy across PA.

I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TFCBT and EMDR, Motivational Interviewing and effective Parenting Techniques.
Life 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 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, TFCBT and EMDR, Motivational Interviewing and effective Parenting Techniques.
Life 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 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.

My approach is trauma-informed and heart-centered, weaving together blends of strengths-based therapy, shadow work, inner child healing, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
Hi, I'm Amy. With over 20 years of counseling experience, I support courageous women navigating trauma, betrayal, and life transitions. Many of my clients are healing from narcissistic abuse, painful breakups or custody battles, and deep emotional wounds. They long for peace, clarity, and to feel whole again. My gentle, trauma-informed approach honors your pace and helps you reconnect to your sacred worth-with compassion, faith, and self-love guiding the way. Together, we'll unlearn patterns of codependency, release perfectionism, and begin to shine like the bright, authentic stars we truly are.
My approach is trauma-informed and heart-centered, weaving together blends of strengths-based therapy, shadow work, inner child healing, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
Hi, I'm Amy. With over 20 years of counseling experience, I support courageous women navigating trauma, betrayal, and life transitions. Many of my clients are healing from narcissistic abuse, painful breakups or custody battles, and deep emotional wounds. They long for peace, clarity, and to feel whole again. My gentle, trauma-informed approach honors your pace and helps you reconnect to your sacred worth-with compassion, faith, and self-love guiding the way. Together, we'll unlearn patterns of codependency, release perfectionism, and begin to shine like the bright, authentic stars we truly are.

I am experienced in multiple counseling modalities including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy.
You didn’t ask for this—whether it’s a major life change, a new mental health diagnosis, or that frustrating sense of being stuck in the same loop over and over. You may be navigating something unfamiliar: a shift in your identity, a change in your relationships, or a diagnosis that’s left you overwhelmed, confused, or doubting yourself. Maybe you’ve noticed patterns that no longer serve you but haven’t been able to break free from them. You want to feel in control again—or maybe for the first time. And while you might hate what you’re feeling right now, some part of you is ready to figure it out. That’s where I come in.
I am experienced in multiple counseling modalities including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy.
You didn’t ask for this—whether it’s a major life change, a new mental health diagnosis, or that frustrating sense of being stuck in the same loop over and over. You may be navigating something unfamiliar: a shift in your identity, a change in your relationships, or a diagnosis that’s left you overwhelmed, confused, or doubting yourself. Maybe you’ve noticed patterns that no longer serve you but haven’t been able to break free from them. You want to feel in control again—or maybe for the first time. And while you might hate what you’re feeling right now, some part of you is ready to figure it out. That’s where I come in.

I utilize cognitive behavior therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and other approaches based on individual needs and goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in both inpatient and outpatient substance use treatment, as well as outpatient mental health treatment for adolescents and adults. I help clients address substance use problems, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, ADHD symptoms, grief/loss, relationship problems, communication/conflict resolution, legal involvement, and day-to-day life stressors.
I utilize cognitive behavior therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and other approaches based on individual needs and goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in both inpatient and outpatient substance use treatment, as well as outpatient mental health treatment for adolescents and adults. I help clients address substance use problems, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, ADHD symptoms, grief/loss, relationship problems, communication/conflict resolution, legal involvement, and day-to-day life stressors.
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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.