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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With Motivational Interviewing (MI), I help you explore and resolve ambivalence toward change in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. This approach focuses on your strengths and intrinsic motivations, guiding you through open-ended questions to uncover your values and goals. Whether you're dealing with behavior change, addiction, or life transitions, MI empowers you to find your own motivation and build confidence to take positive, lasting steps toward the changes you desire.

— Lawrence Rodgers, Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Candidate in Southfield, MI

I am certified in Motivational Interviewing, proven to be effective in treating addictions.

— Jennifer Driscoll, Counselor in Mamaroneck, NY
 

This intervention helps people become motivated to change the behaviors that are preventing them from making healthier choices. Research has shown that this intervention works well with individuals who start off unmotivated or unprepared for change. Motivational interviewing is also appropriate for people who are may not be ready to commit to change, but motivational interviewing can help them move through the emotional stages of change necessary to find their motivation.

— Mary Ellen Kundrat, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Everyone needs a little encouragement, especially when we are working toward our goals. I love implementing MI into treatment because it feels good to build my clients up and recognize their strengths. Sometimes we can get overwhelmed, lost in a lack of confidence, or become intimidated by what we face but this is a way I can help with that.

— Lacie Tomson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Lafayette, IN
 

Motivational Interviewing is exactly what it sounds like - it's a way of asking questions that increases your likelihood for positive change. MI uses a core assumption from restorative practices: you already have everything needed for positive change. The idea is that this method of questioning elicits reasons for change that you've already been considering and simply gets you thinking about them and talking about them more, creating a plan, and then problem-solving identified obstacles .

— Max Casero, Clinical Social Worker in Austin, TX

I am skilled in Motivational Interviewing (MI) because of my training and experience as a psychologist. This means I know how to help people talk through their feelings and make positive changes in their lives. I use MI techniques regularly to support my clients in overcoming doubts and taking steps toward their goals.

— Dr. Lindsay Howard, Clinical Psychologist in Parkland, FL
 

Ambivalence, avoidance and doubt often interferes in maximizing human potential. When an individual becomes aware of their ambivalence and how their actions are not in alignment with their goals, new insight develops and committed action follows. Increasing hope, making decisions and taking committed action are the core principles of motivational interviewing. Confidence building in implementing your action plan is the key to behavior change.

— Anna Amour Ross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in SAN DIEGO, CA

Feeling stuck, confused, or unsure "what's next?" after a major personal or professional milestone? Or has a recent setback got you wondering where to go from here? One or two sessions of motivational interviewing (MI) can be an affirming, nonjudgmental way to explore your options and gain some clarity. We'll talk about how your values and choices fit together and figure out what's holding you back from change. MI works either as a standalone treatment or to help clarify your therapy goals.

— Benjamin Pfeifer, Clinical Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
 

Motivational interviewing is best used for clients who are ambivalent about making change. This non judgemental approach can be useful in treating people who want to stop a behavior (such as an addiction) but are unsure how to begin and have reservations about making the change.

— Annie Barr, Licensed Master of Social Work

Trained with MI expert DeeDee Stout for 5+ years and still meet monthly.

— Laurie Smith, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Belleville, MI
 

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

I was an Integrated Behavioral Health Fellow where I was trained in CBT and Motivational Interviewing

— Sumara Baig, Therapist in Chicago, IL

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

The "Roadmaps" in MI can be thought of as personalized, strategic plans that guide individuals through their journey of coping with anxiety and depression, identifying specific steps and strategies tailored to their unique experiences and goals. This method fosters a sense of autonomy and control in clients, essential factors in managing and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.

— janet Yager, Mental Health Practitioner in Troy, NY
 

We are enthusiastic practitioners of this proven effective approach to change. Motivational Interviewing is a client-centered approach that meets people where they're at to increase their intrinsic motivation to change. Using this approach over the last decade has shown us how to tap into the potential each client has for change.

— California Center for Change, Addictions Counselor in San Francisco, CA