Motivational Interviewing

The Soho Center for Mental Health Counseling

Psychotherapists located in New York City, NY & New York, NY

Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based therapeutic technique that helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about change. At The Soho Center For Mental Health Counseling, located in Greenwich Village of New York City, Anthony Freire, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, Kelley Hershman, LMHC, and Kate Engstrom, LCSW, lead a team of compassionate therapists that offers MI to help improve your mental health and bring your values and actions into greater alignment. To learn more about MI, call the office or request an appointment online today.

Motivational Interviewing Q&A

What is motivational interviewing?

Motivational interviewing is a therapeutic approach designed to help people strengthen their motivation and commitment to change. It involves a collaborative conversation between client and therapist, where the therapist uses open-ended questions, affirmations, reflective listening, and summarizing to explore the client’s goals, values, and reasons for change.

MI is built on four key principles: expressing empathy, developing discrepancy, rolling with resistance, and supporting self-efficacy. This structured yet flexible technique is widely used in mental health, addiction treatment, and medical settings.

What is motivational interviewing like?

Motivational interviewing sessions feel more like guided conversations than traditional talk therapy. During a session, the therapist creates a nonjudgmental and supportive environment that encourages honest discussion. Clients are encouraged to reflect on their thoughts, behaviors, and feelings related to change. Rather than being told what to do, individuals are gently guided to explore their own motivations and challenges.

Your therapist may help highlight any discrepancies between your current behaviors and your broader goals or values. This approach promotes insight, builds self-awareness, and increases the client’s confidence in making positive changes.

How can motivational interviewing help to improve my mental health?

Motivational interviewing can be highly effective in helping individuals overcome ambivalence and move forward with mental health treatment or personal change. It is especially helpful for people who feel stuck, resistant, or unsure about the next steps in their healing journey. By focusing on internal motivation rather than external pressure, MI helps build long-term commitment to change.

Individuals often report improved self-esteem, clearer direction, and reduced emotional distress after working with an MI-trained therapist. Whether addressing substance use, anxiety, mood disorders, or lifestyle changes, motivational interviewing can play a powerful role in fostering healthier habits and emotional resilience.

At The Soho Center For Mental Health Counseling, motivational interviewing is available as a standalone therapy or as part of a comprehensive mental health treatment plan. If you are interested in MI, call The Soho Center For Mental Health Counseling or request an appointment online at any time.