Motivational Interviewing

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, get married, or have kids? 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.

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.

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.

Motivational Interviewing is especially useful when clients are interested in change, but are having difficulty moving forward. This is a way of exploring our hesitance and stumbling blocks to make lasting change more likely.

I have completed two 21 hour training courses on integrating the approach of motivational interviewing in counseling approach. Motivational Interviewing is a counseling approach that is client-centered (you are the expert), counselor directed (I make observations and help increase awareness) focused on resolving inner conflict regarding change. This approach focuses on empowering clients to find their own meaning for, desire to, and capacity for change.

Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative, goal-oriented method of communication with particular attention to the language of change. It is designed to strengthen an individual’s motivation for and movement toward a specific goal by eliciting and exploring the person’s own arguments for change. Motivational Interviewing allows for collaborative conversation to strengthen a person’s own motivation for and commitment to change.

This therapeutic style focuses on exploring ambivalence with goals and personal values. We'll work on taking ownership of decisions, such as health behaviors or lifestyle adjustments, while respecting autonomy and life experiences. This is a collaborative, non judgmental approach that addresses self-efficacy and supports meaningful, sustainable change.

I earned my certification from the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work in 2015. I have completed refresher courses annually and practice this evidence-based practice frequently with clients over the years. Since 2021, I have taught MSW and BASW level interns to incorporate elements of motivational interviewing as part of their practicum.

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.

Most people have the answers that they need already within themselves. Using motivational interviewing we can get to those answers and get you in a place where you don't feel stuck.

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.

I focus on facilitating behavioral change related to health practices such as smoking cessation, weight management, and adherence to medical advice. With extensive training in MI techniques, I create a supportive environment that empowers patients to explore their motivations and ambivalence concerning health behaviors. By using evidence-based strategies tailored to individual needs, I effectively guide patients through the change process, promoting sustainable health improvements.

I have been trained in multiple settings in this area, of which is very important in the treatment of eating disorders. I help my clients resolve their ambivalence about treatment and healing, uncovering their inner motivations for recovery.

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.

Sometimes people can have a difficult time finding their strengths and goals with motivational interviewing we find and enhance your strengths to start accomplishing your goals and aspirations.