Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing is a technique in which the counselor becomes a helper in the change process and expresses acceptance of the individual. This style of counseling can help resolve ambivalence which prevents individuals from realizing personal goals. Motivational interviewing builds on Carl Rogers' optimistic and humanistic theories about people's capabilities to exercise free choice and grow through the process of self-actualization.

Motivational interviewing has been a big tool in my toolkit for many years. As a Veterans Health Administration hospital social worker I utilized MI every day with clients attempting to live a healthier lifestyle and stay out of the hospital. I have studied MI in graduate school and continue to stay up to date with courses offered as a practicing professional.

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.

I use open-ended questions, affirmations, and reflective statements to elicit and enhance the client's own insights. By fostering a supportive and empowering environment, Motivational Interviewing encourages autonomy, self-efficacy, and a sense of ownership over the change process.

I’ve been working with people from all walks of life dealing with substance use and addiction challenges for the last 10 years. I have extensive training and experience in Motivational Interviewing, the current leading evidence-based practice to help people explore their relationship to drugs and alcohol. I have also provided trainings on substances and Motivational Interviewing to groups and treatment providers in the Bay Area and Los Angeles.

Change is hard! And why shouldn't it be? As much as we may want to change things, it's also scary and frustrating. Let's talk about it.

Using motivational interviewing techniques can help you determine areas of your life where you are most ready to take action.

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

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.

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.

Motivational interviewing is a tool that we all can use in our daily lives. The primary principles of this technique is to use open ended questions in order to deepen the understanding of motivation (stages of change), build rapport, be empathetic to meeting client's needs, and empower self efficacy.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a technique for increasing an individual's motivation to change. This approach has proven to be particularly effective with people that may be unwilling or unable to change. Healing through person-centered conversation and insight provoking questions are used in my treatment style.

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.

Extensive MI training

Motivational Interviewing can be helpful in having my clients understand how their chosen actions are influencing quality of life. 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.

Navigating the complexities of healthcare for a decade has honed my expertise, where motivational interviewing is a cornerstone of my client interactions. I utilize this approach to enhance communication and empower individuals towards positive change.