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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Working together with my clients to become more decisive and confident in their decision making skills is key to my practice.

— Alisa Zachery, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in ,

This approach is best suited towards those looking to make changes. I help the individual own the arguments for change, address mixed feelings and look at pros and cons to making changes. Generally, this method is geared towards those I help with substance use issues. However, the concept can be applied to many areas of life that we want to improve.

— Scott Bragg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Paoli, PA
 

I support people in finding their purpose and motivation and tapping into it to reach their goals for treatment as well as their full potential.

— Yoojin Nam, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Buena Park, CA

MI helps facilitate change. It is a crucial tool in an addiction's counselor's toolbox, though it has plenty of applications for mental health as well. Change is hard, but with the right guide, you'll be able to achieve that which you never thought possible.

— Randy Withers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Conover, NC
 

I help individuals set and reach SMART goals for both their professional and personal lives. I believe that clients are the experts on their own lives and I work to help clients recognize their own strengths and utilize those strengths to achieve their goals.

— Julie Dominicak, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate

Sometimes what you think you're supposed to want is not what you really want and you can't seem to make definite choices, leading to stress/anxiety. Sometimes entering a healthy dialogue with ourselves to overcome ambivalence is easier to do with a therapist using motivational interviewing techniques. Problem-solving and decision-making become clearer with an exploration of all sides of an issue, with more perspectives, and with some supportive coaching.

— Gillian Gillette, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda, CA
 

Trained in motivational interviewing and motivational interviewing intermediate courses and continued supervision in a skill straining group every week. Motivational interviewing seeks to help you find motivation using reflection skills and skills to help you find your purpose.

— Aaron Mussat, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

The power to change is instrumental and exists within each of us led by one step. Motivational interviewing provides an instrument that can facilitate that change. I have utilized motivational interviewing with clients with expressed ambivalence toward change and reframing negative self talk.

— Patrice Hutson, Mental Health Counselor
 

There are many benefits of using motivational interviewing in therapy and this approach has been proven successful for many of my clients. Some benefits are allowing patients to talk through their problems, envisioning change, & building confidence.

— Ashley Gentil, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Brooklyn, NY

Motivational Interviewing is a form of therapy used most commonly when something is blocking you from reaching your goals. In this technique, we will explore in depth what is holding you back from you living your best life and find ways to move towards those goals.

— Corey Nielsen, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Fort Collins, CO
 

I am a licensed addictions counselor this is a large part of our training and modalities used to determine readiness to change.

— Denae Arnold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wheatridge, CO

I have been using motivational interviewing for many years. Doing so enables me to approach people "where they are" as the contemplate behavior change. Depending on a person's stage of change I can help them accordingly.

— Tim Lineaweaver, Addictions Counselor
 

Motivational Interviewing (MI) can empower and motivate one to change. It is goal oriented and designed to increase your motivation. We work collaboratively to discover barriers and explore your reasons to change in a safe and accepting environment. William R Miller founded Motivational Interviewing and I suggest you go to williamrmiller.net to learn more.

— SHEILA HOLT, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Renton, WA

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

— Samantha Tenner, Therapist in Denver, CO
 

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

I can help by providing you with the specific tools needed to overcome your pain. Asking for help can be hard, and at the same time it is the first step toward regaining control of your life.

— Steve Helsel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Commerce Charter Township, MI