Motivational Interviewing Therapists in Ashburn, VA

Photo of Lisa Tomala (Ellie Mental Health-Ashburn), MS, NCC
Lisa Tomala (Ellie Mental Health-Ashburn)
Resident in Counseling, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, and other treatment modalities to help to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, chronic illness, and life transitions. I also specialize in Grief Counseling (adaptation to loss). As someone who has struggled with personal loss, I understand the pain and devastation associated with losing parents and our furry friends.
I use Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, and other treatment modalities to help to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, chronic illness, and life transitions. I also specialize in Grief Counseling (adaptation to loss). As someone who has struggled with personal loss, I understand the pain and devastation associated with losing parents and our furry friends.
(757) 571-8469 x4 View (757) 571-8469 x4
Photo of Daryl Flink, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daryl Flink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
In my practice, I always start with genuine empathy to create a safe, nonjudgmental space. My therapeutic approach is action-oriented and primarily present-focused. What are you doing right now that is contributing to your desired outcome? My eclectic treatment interventions pull from behavioral, cognitive, motivational interviewing, and superhero therapy perspectives. I work together with my clients to find a strategy that specifically addresses their needs. Through helping develop coping skills, healthy boundaries and positive self-talk mantras, I empower my clients to face and overcome the obstacles in their path.
In my practice, I always start with genuine empathy to create a safe, nonjudgmental space. My therapeutic approach is action-oriented and primarily present-focused. What are you doing right now that is contributing to your desired outcome? My eclectic treatment interventions pull from behavioral, cognitive, motivational interviewing, and superhero therapy perspectives. I work together with my clients to find a strategy that specifically addresses their needs. Through helping develop coping skills, healthy boundaries and positive self-talk mantras, I empower my clients to face and overcome the obstacles in their path.
(703) 215-3543 View (703) 215-3543
Photo of Vanessa Cheshier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Cheshier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
That's why I tailor my techniques to each individual using an approach that integrates elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Invitation to Change, and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you struggling to change your patterns of alcohol or marijuana use, or do you have a loved one who is? I use a harm reduction approach to help clients explore their relationship with substances. We will work together to develop new skills and cultivate motivation to make difficult changes – whether that is practicing moderation, making safer choices, or eliminating substances from your life entirely. I prioritize creating a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment as feeling supported is essential in productive therapy.
That's why I tailor my techniques to each individual using an approach that integrates elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Invitation to Change, and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you struggling to change your patterns of alcohol or marijuana use, or do you have a loved one who is? I use a harm reduction approach to help clients explore their relationship with substances. We will work together to develop new skills and cultivate motivation to make difficult changes – whether that is practicing moderation, making safer choices, or eliminating substances from your life entirely. I prioritize creating a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment as feeling supported is essential in productive therapy.
(571) 324-2658 View (571) 324-2658
Photo of Susan Bender, Pre-Licensed Professional
Susan Bender
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet the client’s needs, including, but not limited to, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
I currently provide individual psychotherapy to children (ages 5 and over), adolescents, and young adults. I use a holistic approach in working with individuals who may struggle with anxiety, depression, social skills, relationships, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, ADHD, executive functioning difficulties, life transitions, and related issues. I also specialize in administering psychological evaluations.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet the client’s needs, including, but not limited to, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
I currently provide individual psychotherapy to children (ages 5 and over), adolescents, and young adults. I use a holistic approach in working with individuals who may struggle with anxiety, depression, social skills, relationships, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, ADHD, executive functioning difficulties, life transitions, and related issues. I also specialize in administering psychological evaluations.
(571) 568-7726 View (571) 568-7726
Photo of Derek Henderson, MA, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Derek Henderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCSP
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
At Think Happy Live Healthy, I provide individual psychotherapy to children (age 6 and over), adolescents, and young adults. My approach is primarily solution focused and incorporates positive psychology practices and principles. I also incorporate other approaches such as CBT (Cognitive Behavorial Therapy), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. When working with clients, I focus on skill development compared to viewing behavior as a deficit or weakness. I believe strongly in working collaboratively with parents to help reinforce skills and in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship.
At Think Happy Live Healthy, I provide individual psychotherapy to children (age 6 and over), adolescents, and young adults. My approach is primarily solution focused and incorporates positive psychology practices and principles. I also incorporate other approaches such as CBT (Cognitive Behavorial Therapy), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. When working with clients, I focus on skill development compared to viewing behavior as a deficit or weakness. I believe strongly in working collaboratively with parents to help reinforce skills and in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship.
(571) 556-3187 View (571) 556-3187
Photo of Mary Jouett Rodman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jouett Rodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Are you overwhelmed by challenges? Have you struggled with anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating? With special training in body image issues, Mary can help you on the path to recovery. Treatment will be holistic and eclectic, tailored to your needs, using the tools that work best for you, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness. You can expect practical tools that you can apply in your everyday life to fell and function better. In all cases, you are at the center of the therapy and your needs will drive the therapy process forward. If you are ready to move forward, reach out for help.
Are you overwhelmed by challenges? Have you struggled with anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating? With special training in body image issues, Mary can help you on the path to recovery. Treatment will be holistic and eclectic, tailored to your needs, using the tools that work best for you, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness. You can expect practical tools that you can apply in your everyday life to fell and function better. In all cases, you are at the center of the therapy and your needs will drive the therapy process forward. If you are ready to move forward, reach out for help.
(703) 947-0647 View (703) 947-0647
Photo of Alima S Mustapha-Palmer, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alima S Mustapha-Palmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
We will draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems Theory, Person Centered Therapy, Narrative/Talk therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Are you experiencing difficulty managing stress and anxiety related to a chronic illness? Do you find it difficult to get past traumatic episodes from your past? Do you have intrusive thoughts, difficulty sleeping, problems forming healthy relationships? Are you struggling with drinking too much or other substance abuse challenges, or BPD? If you, your child, or your family needs help, you can expect effective therapy focused on your needs. I have over twenty years of experience and success. You can achieve more while building a successful, and satisfying life. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
We will draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems Theory, Person Centered Therapy, Narrative/Talk therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Are you experiencing difficulty managing stress and anxiety related to a chronic illness? Do you find it difficult to get past traumatic episodes from your past? Do you have intrusive thoughts, difficulty sleeping, problems forming healthy relationships? Are you struggling with drinking too much or other substance abuse challenges, or BPD? If you, your child, or your family needs help, you can expect effective therapy focused on your needs. I have over twenty years of experience and success. You can achieve more while building a successful, and satisfying life. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
(571) 470-5393 View (571) 470-5393
Photo of Helen Yang, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Helen Yang
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20149  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. I am here to offer you a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your inner world, gain insight into your thoughts and emotions, and develop the tools you need to thrive. My approach is rooted in respect, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard for each individual I work with. I use proven therapeutic tools such as CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Parts Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and a strength's based approach.
Accepting New Clients. I am here to offer you a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your inner world, gain insight into your thoughts and emotions, and develop the tools you need to thrive. My approach is rooted in respect, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard for each individual I work with. I use proven therapeutic tools such as CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Parts Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and a strength's based approach.
(703) 372-9449 View (703) 372-9449
Photo of Izabela Osiniecka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Izabela Osiniecka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Izabela utilized Person-Centered, Strength Based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing approaches to help create a strong therapeutic relationship that allows clients to reach their therapy goals.
Izabela Osiniecka is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. She received both her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Community Action and Social Change and her Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan. She has experience working with adults with acute and chronic psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Izabela has worked in short-term and long-term inpatient hospitals as well as college settings.
Izabela utilized Person-Centered, Strength Based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing approaches to help create a strong therapeutic relationship that allows clients to reach their therapy goals.
Izabela Osiniecka is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. She received both her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Community Action and Social Change and her Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan. She has experience working with adults with acute and chronic psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Izabela has worked in short-term and long-term inpatient hospitals as well as college settings.
(571) 517-2840 View (571) 517-2840
Photo of Khaliah J (Cousar) Tate, MS, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Khaliah J (Cousar) Tate
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mixed in with some Motivational Interviewing, humor when appropriate, compassion and encouragement with accountability are typically the ways I help my clients.
Hi There! Sometimes life can be difficult. Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent/child issues, trauma-LIFE can sneak up on you. You can walk in healing from these issues and more. Sometimes you need the space and the right person to help you get unstuck and move forward in success. I have worked for over 18 years with children, adolescents, adults and families in overcoming their obstacles in mental health and addiction to walk in healing.
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mixed in with some Motivational Interviewing, humor when appropriate, compassion and encouragement with accountability are typically the ways I help my clients.
Hi There! Sometimes life can be difficult. Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent/child issues, trauma-LIFE can sneak up on you. You can walk in healing from these issues and more. Sometimes you need the space and the right person to help you get unstuck and move forward in success. I have worked for over 18 years with children, adolescents, adults and families in overcoming their obstacles in mental health and addiction to walk in healing.
(540) 416-0413 View (540) 416-0413
Photo of Lindsay Bowling, LPC, CSAC, CCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Bowling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
We will work collaboratively to identify and change unhelpful thought and behavioral patterns using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness techniques.
Are you feeling stuck and unsure how to move past the roadblocks in your path? Are you ready to make positive changes in your life and move forward? Whether you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship conflicts, perfectionism, test anxiety, ADHD, school/ work avoidance, mild substance abuse, chronic illness, or having difficulty adjusting to a new situation, you are not alone. Although things are difficult now, it does not have to be this way forever. My goal is to help you be your best self to reach your full potential.
We will work collaboratively to identify and change unhelpful thought and behavioral patterns using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness techniques.
Are you feeling stuck and unsure how to move past the roadblocks in your path? Are you ready to make positive changes in your life and move forward? Whether you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship conflicts, perfectionism, test anxiety, ADHD, school/ work avoidance, mild substance abuse, chronic illness, or having difficulty adjusting to a new situation, you are not alone. Although things are difficult now, it does not have to be this way forever. My goal is to help you be your best self to reach your full potential.
(571) 616-9792 View (571) 616-9792
Photo of Christina Vanzella, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Vanzella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
Christina uses a combination of approaches to help empower her clients to achieve their goals and improve the quality of their lives; including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Relational Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Christina is licensed in VA, DC, and NJ and can see clients in all three states through telehealth. She is also a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional (PMH-C). She currently works with clients ages 17 and over. She specializes in women’s issues including perinatal mental health. She has vast experience working with client’s struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress and relational issues. As a military spouse, Christina has a soft spot for other military spouses and families, understanding how difficult life transitions and uncertainty can be. She considers her approach eclectic and holistic.
Christina uses a combination of approaches to help empower her clients to achieve their goals and improve the quality of their lives; including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Relational Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Christina is licensed in VA, DC, and NJ and can see clients in all three states through telehealth. She is also a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional (PMH-C). She currently works with clients ages 17 and over. She specializes in women’s issues including perinatal mental health. She has vast experience working with client’s struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress and relational issues. As a military spouse, Christina has a soft spot for other military spouses and families, understanding how difficult life transitions and uncertainty can be. She considers her approach eclectic and holistic.
(571) 701-1188 View (571) 701-1188
Photo of Lindsey Berjansky - Mind Body Connect 360, PsyD
Mind Body Connect 360
PsyD
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Mind Body Connect 360 is an innovative integrative practice located in Loudoun County, Virginia that offers comprehensive psychological services for children, adolescents, and adults. Our integrative practice provides mental health counseling and psychotherapy, EMDR, and biofeedback therapy to facilitate overall health, well-being and enhanced peak performance.
Mind Body Connect 360 is an innovative integrative practice located in Loudoun County, Virginia that offers comprehensive psychological services for children, adolescents, and adults. Our integrative practice provides mental health counseling and psychotherapy, EMDR, and biofeedback therapy to facilitate overall health, well-being and enhanced peak performance.
(571) 999-7136 View (571) 999-7136
Photo of Dr. Linda Levine Silverman, PsyD, MA, CSAC, CCH, CELC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dr. Linda Levine Silverman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PsyD, MA, CSAC, CCH, CELC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
As a holistically-oriented emotional wellness practitioner, I enjoy working with individuals who are highly motivated for total wellness: physically, emotionally and spiritually. My ideal client is one who is self-motivated, who is willing to go to any lengths to become empowered. My practice focuses on working with individuals who would like to learn strategies for effective coping with chronic and acute illness, pain and disability, stress and anxiety, depression, and addictions. I utilize positive psychology coaching, hypnosis, addiction education and relapse prevention.
As a holistically-oriented emotional wellness practitioner, I enjoy working with individuals who are highly motivated for total wellness: physically, emotionally and spiritually. My ideal client is one who is self-motivated, who is willing to go to any lengths to become empowered. My practice focuses on working with individuals who would like to learn strategies for effective coping with chronic and acute illness, pain and disability, stress and anxiety, depression, and addictions. I utilize positive psychology coaching, hypnosis, addiction education and relapse prevention.
(540) 709-8470 View (540) 709-8470
Photo of Sarah E Wires, LCSW-S, CSAC-S, RPSS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah E Wires
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW-S, CSAC-S, RPSS
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
I work with clients to uncover areas that are hindering their growth, discover their strengths and how to utilize them and collaboratively discard thoughts, ideas and behaviors which don't serve them. I am in supervision for my Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and in clinical social work license.
I work with clients to uncover areas that are hindering their growth, discover their strengths and how to utilize them and collaboratively discard thoughts, ideas and behaviors which don't serve them. I am in supervision for my Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and in clinical social work license.
(540) 590-5879 x78 View (540) 590-5879 x78
Photo of Abigail Heit, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Heit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20148  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a background in serving pregnant and parenting youth that have experienced trauma. I am well versed in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and I have advanced training in this area. Throughout my career, I have guided countless individuals in processing traumatic birth experiences, navigating the complexities of newborn feeding, adjusting to the transformative role of parenthood, and overcoming relationship obstacles after welcoming a baby. I built upon my passion for helping new moms by securing my PMH-C (Perinatal Mental Health Certified) credential in 2024.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a background in serving pregnant and parenting youth that have experienced trauma. I am well versed in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and I have advanced training in this area. Throughout my career, I have guided countless individuals in processing traumatic birth experiences, navigating the complexities of newborn feeding, adjusting to the transformative role of parenthood, and overcoming relationship obstacles after welcoming a baby. I built upon my passion for helping new moms by securing my PMH-C (Perinatal Mental Health Certified) credential in 2024.
(703) 782-5584 View (703) 782-5584
Photo of Robyn Resh Davinic, PhD, Psychologist
Robyn Resh Davinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20148  (Online Only)
If you are seeking to make some positive changes in your life or what to better understand how to cope with your current and past stressors, therapy can assist you. I work hard to get to know my clients and assist them in feeling heard and accepted. I encourage clients to tell me why they want to participate in therapy and what expectations they have for our time together. In sessions, I work to assist clients in identifying or naming their emotions to determine what life experiences have caused them stress or trauma and to understand what negative thoughts are contributing to their distress.
If you are seeking to make some positive changes in your life or what to better understand how to cope with your current and past stressors, therapy can assist you. I work hard to get to know my clients and assist them in feeling heard and accepted. I encourage clients to tell me why they want to participate in therapy and what expectations they have for our time together. In sessions, I work to assist clients in identifying or naming their emotions to determine what life experiences have caused them stress or trauma and to understand what negative thoughts are contributing to their distress.
(703) 570-1357 View (703) 570-1357
Photo of Cynthia Turner - Insight Recovery Centers, LCSW, LSATP, MAC
Insight Recovery Centers
LCSW, LSATP, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Are you or a loved one struggling with alcohol or drug use? Tried other treatments that didn't work? Not find 12-step meetings useful? Insight Recovery Centers is a licensed adult Intensive Outpatient Program. We are right for people who may be stepping down from a residential or detox program or need more than once a week therapy. Your program may include a combination of group, individual counseling, case management, and drug/alcohol testing. There is a step down Continuing Care group. If you are not ready to quit drinking, the Alcohol Moderation Program may be for you.
Are you or a loved one struggling with alcohol or drug use? Tried other treatments that didn't work? Not find 12-step meetings useful? Insight Recovery Centers is a licensed adult Intensive Outpatient Program. We are right for people who may be stepping down from a residential or detox program or need more than once a week therapy. Your program may include a combination of group, individual counseling, case management, and drug/alcohol testing. There is a step down Continuing Care group. If you are not ready to quit drinking, the Alcohol Moderation Program may be for you.
(571) 200-3109 View (571) 200-3109
Photo of Cammie Terry, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cammie Terry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Are you seeking a laid-back, compassionate, and supportive space where you can heal, grow, and thrive? I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in supporting teens and young adults who are passionately committed to their personal growth and healing journeys. I go beyond traditional talk therapy to help people who are struggling with anxiety/depression/ADHD to feel empowered to live as their true, authentic selves.
Are you seeking a laid-back, compassionate, and supportive space where you can heal, grow, and thrive? I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in supporting teens and young adults who are passionately committed to their personal growth and healing journeys. I go beyond traditional talk therapy to help people who are struggling with anxiety/depression/ADHD to feel empowered to live as their true, authentic selves.
(571) 200-9928 View (571) 200-9928
Photo of Lauren Dodd, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Dodd
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you experiencing increased stress due to a challenging work environment, relationship issues, chronic illness, ADHD, or grief from the loss of a loved one? If so, I want you to know that you do not have to navigate this challenge alone. My name is Lauren and it is my privilege to support you and help you navigate this challenging time. I take a collaborative and person-centered approach to providing individually tailored therapy that fits with your needs and preferences to help you achieve your goals and gain control over anxiety and depression.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you experiencing increased stress due to a challenging work environment, relationship issues, chronic illness, ADHD, or grief from the loss of a loved one? If so, I want you to know that you do not have to navigate this challenge alone. My name is Lauren and it is my privilege to support you and help you navigate this challenging time. I take a collaborative and person-centered approach to providing individually tailored therapy that fits with your needs and preferences to help you achieve your goals and gain control over anxiety and depression.
(571) 603-7770 View (571) 603-7770
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.