Motivational Interviewing

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a goal-focused, client-centered counseling approach developed, in part, by clinical psychologists William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick. The goal of MI is to help people resolve ambivalent feelings and insecurities and find the motivation they need to change their behavior. Although motivational interviewing was first used for problem drinking and others with substance abuse issues, it has been proven effective for many people struggling with making healthier choices. This therapeutic technique works especially well with those who start off resistive, unmotivated or unprepared for change (and less well on those who are already prepared and motivated to change). Think this approach might be right for you? Reach out to one of TherapyDen’s motivational interviewing specialists today.

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Meet the specialists

 

I have attended over 100 hours of training in Motivational Interviewing and led training for other staff on techniques for 2 1/2 years.

— Colleen Steppa, Therapist in Phoenix, AZ

One of my therapy approaches is motivational interviewing (MI), which is an effective and client-centered method that can help my clients achieve their goals. MI is grounded in the principle that people have the intrinsic motivation and ability to change, but they may encounter barriers or conflicts that hinder them from doing so. MI helps my clients articulate and clarify their reasons for change, and enhance their confidence and commitment to change.

— AJ Huynh, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Cypress, TX
 

With a background working in outpatient addiction treatment, I have extensive experience in working with your reasons for wanting to make changes in your life, and enhancing your motivation towards that change.

— Matt McCullough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR

Sometimes we want to make changes, but, there's something holding us back. It's easy to sit on the fence and talk ourselves out of meaningful action. Motivational Interviewing can help us clarify our goals and get unstuck.

— Danielle Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Littleton, CO
 

I utilize motivational interviewing skills to resolve ambivalence and move towards change.

— Samantha Tenner, Therapist in Denver, CO

I utilize a motivational approach when I see a client is experiencing self-doubt, low confidence, or depression. By implementing this approach, client's have overcome their low self-worth by reflecting on their positive attributes, pondering their accomplishments, and thinking about their future goals. I also work with my client's in creating a lsit of positive affirmations that they can refer to on a daily basis to improve their own view of themself.

— Brittany Bergersen, Mental Health Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
 

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a method of therapy that works to engage the motivation of clients to change their behavior. Clients are encouraged to explore and confront their ambivalence. Therapists attempt to influence their clients to consider making changes, rather than non-directively explore themselves. Motivational Interviewing is frequently used in cases of problem drinking or mild addictions.

— Dr. Sonia Dhaliwal, Psychologist in Las Vegas, NV

I have over a decade of experience using motivational interviewing effectively. MI recognizes that you, the client, are the expert on yourself and your lived experience. My role is to partner with you to explore your reasons to change, as well as your reasons to not change, to respect where you are in the process, and to elicit motivation to make those changes that will transform your life for the better.

— Suzanne Rapisardo, Therapist in Denver, CO
 

Motivational interviewing is a powerful tool to help you make decisions, identify goals, and make lasting changes in your life. This technique empowers you to understand and then take steps towards what you want.

— Megan McDavid, Sex Therapist in , OR

I came to this way of working later in my career I had been doing much of this but now it had a name. The elements are 1. autonomy of the individual 2. collaboration with the individual 3. Evocation of motivation meaning to talk to the part of the person looking for sustainable change. When I work in this orientation, I point out discrepancies of their actions to their goals. I have empathic responses. I roll with the resistances. I also empower the individual in their change.

— Alicia Walker, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Montclair, NJ
 

Enrolled in first ever MI academic class at UT School of Social Work in 2007 with Dr. Mary Marden Velasquez providing certification in MI. Additional extensive MI trainings since 2005 include 1-3 day trainings.

— Shawna Williams, Psychotherapist in Austin, TX

Trained to provide MI and typically always incorporate into sessions.

— Ashley Hilkey, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Bloomington, IN
 

Many people with chronic health conditions have been put into the “sick role”, where they are expected to and rewarded when they passively take in the treatments their all-knowing doctors prescribe. I’m not like that! I want to know what your motivations and goals are for treatment, and I will collaborate with you on your goals, not mine.

— Peter Addy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR

Personal growth is so... personal. How could I know more than you of what you want and need at any given time? MI is a respectful system that helps you determine your own goals. I will not be telling you what to do or think; I will be there beside you listening carefully so that you can hear yourself. This way we can get you further down the road to knowing yourself and living your values.

— christine loeb, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Encino, CA
 

Identifying our motivations can help us succeed in finding our own success and contentment.

— Katlyn Nolan, Social Worker in Ocala, FL

Wrestling with a big decision? Feeling pulled in opposite directions as one part wants to make a change while the other doesn't? Thinking of leaving your job, changing careers, or starting a company? Contemplating whether to smoke less weed or cigarettes? Through Motivational Interviewing, we'll work through ambivalence so you're no longer stuck or conflicted. We'll explore your reasons for change, problem solve barriers, and set you up for success.

— Lisa Andresen, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in San Francisco, CA
 

While using Motivation Interviewing, I focus on exploring and resolving ambivalence towards change. Through a collaborative process, I help individuals identify their own reasons for change and work towards their goals. Whether dealing with addiction, mental health or other life challenges, Motivation Interviewing can be a powerful tool to promote lasting change and personal growth.

— Scotty Gilmore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX