Motivational Interviewing Therapists in 94123

Photo of Kim Kokoska, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94123, CA
Kim Kokoska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
Your peace and healing are the focus of my practice. Seeing into people's hearts and watching them grow and strengthen is my greatest joy. Some of the therapeutic tools I use to support you on your journey towards emotional well being include cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, Gestalt and Post-modern therapies, motivational interviewing and somatic experiencing.
Your peace and healing are the focus of my practice. Seeing into people's hearts and watching them grow and strengthen is my greatest joy. Some of the therapeutic tools I use to support you on your journey towards emotional well being include cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, Gestalt and Post-modern therapies, motivational interviewing and somatic experiencing.
(415) 801-3490 View (415) 801-3490
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94123, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 840-3997 View (415) 840-3997
Photo of Ali Nazir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94123, CA
Ali Nazir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
These include: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Emigrated from England in 2010, I have over 13 years of clinical experience in the Bay Area. During this time, I have honed skills, therapeutic tools, developed a unique style of engagement to facilitate positive change. I adopt humor, present authentically, and challenge those seeking support appropriately. I offer a therapeutic relationship built on collaboration, respect, accountability, and a safe environment conducive to personal growth. You will be supported to identify the root causes of challenges faced and helped to find effective pathways to achieve individualized goals.
These include: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Emigrated from England in 2010, I have over 13 years of clinical experience in the Bay Area. During this time, I have honed skills, therapeutic tools, developed a unique style of engagement to facilitate positive change. I adopt humor, present authentically, and challenge those seeking support appropriately. I offer a therapeutic relationship built on collaboration, respect, accountability, and a safe environment conducive to personal growth. You will be supported to identify the root causes of challenges faced and helped to find effective pathways to achieve individualized goals.
(650) 910-2131 View (650) 910-2131
Photo of Andy Truong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94123, CA
Andy Truong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I specialize in client-centered practices, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused approaches.
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or feeling stuck, I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through life struggles at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, so I honor you for your bravery and effort to reach out. You have the inherit strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace, positivity, and self-awareness.
I specialize in client-centered practices, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused approaches.
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or feeling stuck, I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through life struggles at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, so I honor you for your bravery and effort to reach out. You have the inherit strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace, positivity, and self-awareness.
(626) 436-3084 View (626) 436-3084
Photo of Sonia Kakkar, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 94123, CA
Sonia Kakkar
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I utilize an integrative approach in my practice, which includes CBT, DBT, strengths based, motivational interviewing and talk therapy.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I have an extensive background working with individuals who are navigating symptoms of complex trauma, anxiety and depression. I have experience with supporting individuals around managing suicidal ideation and healing from ruptures in attachments. I utilize evidenced based practices to help you explore your thoughts, behaviors and gain valuable insights into patterns to impact positive change. My approach is client centered and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families.
I utilize an integrative approach in my practice, which includes CBT, DBT, strengths based, motivational interviewing and talk therapy.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I have an extensive background working with individuals who are navigating symptoms of complex trauma, anxiety and depression. I have experience with supporting individuals around managing suicidal ideation and healing from ruptures in attachments. I utilize evidenced based practices to help you explore your thoughts, behaviors and gain valuable insights into patterns to impact positive change. My approach is client centered and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families.
(925) 275-5836 View (925) 275-5836
Photo of Laura M Jasen, Licensed Professional Counselor in 94123, CA
Laura M Jasen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
Life's hurdles can challenge even the strongest of us. With therapeutic support and compassionate guidance, we can overcome your struggles to help you improve your mental health, regain control and start your healing so you can live the life you've always envisioned. With the proper help, you can improve your anxiety, strengthen your relationships, push yourself to take on new challenges, and find the right tools to help you manage the difficulties you face and find your well-being. Areas of specialty include: Life Transitions, Anxiety, Feelings of Unease, Healing Trauma, Relationship Issues, Grief and Loss.
Life's hurdles can challenge even the strongest of us. With therapeutic support and compassionate guidance, we can overcome your struggles to help you improve your mental health, regain control and start your healing so you can live the life you've always envisioned. With the proper help, you can improve your anxiety, strengthen your relationships, push yourself to take on new challenges, and find the right tools to help you manage the difficulties you face and find your well-being. Areas of specialty include: Life Transitions, Anxiety, Feelings of Unease, Healing Trauma, Relationship Issues, Grief and Loss.
(415) 226-4854 View (415) 226-4854
Photo of Austin Heafey, Psychologist in 94123, CA
Austin Heafey
Psychologist, MFT, Psy D
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Everyone deserves support– life can be overwhelming. Our sessions provide a safe, encouraging space for you to slow down and focus on what’s important. As an advocate for you, your family, or your child, we create solutions that help you find healing.
Everyone deserves support– life can be overwhelming. Our sessions provide a safe, encouraging space for you to slow down and focus on what’s important. As an advocate for you, your family, or your child, we create solutions that help you find healing.
(415) 594-4159 View (415) 594-4159
Photo of Shantha Gowda, Psychologist in 94123, CA
Shantha Gowda
Psychologist, PsyD, DBSM
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping people improve their sleep. I am a licensed clinical health psychologist board certified in behavioral sleep medicine. I trained as a clinical fellow at the Stanford Sleep Medicine Center and built the first Sleep and Circadian Health Program for the Marine Corps Special Operations Command. I take a holistic approach to treating sleep problems by taking into account all relevant factors such as cultural background, personal history, family and friends, living arrangements, preferences, and other health and mental health conditions.
I am passionate about helping people improve their sleep. I am a licensed clinical health psychologist board certified in behavioral sleep medicine. I trained as a clinical fellow at the Stanford Sleep Medicine Center and built the first Sleep and Circadian Health Program for the Marine Corps Special Operations Command. I take a holistic approach to treating sleep problems by taking into account all relevant factors such as cultural background, personal history, family and friends, living arrangements, preferences, and other health and mental health conditions.
(415) 619-6497 View (415) 619-6497
Photo of Robert J. Buonfiglio, Psychologist in 94123, CA
Robert J. Buonfiglio
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in California and New York in private practice, a Berkeley-certified executive coach, the 2020 CPA convention chair, the past president of the California Psychological Association, past president of the San Francisco Psychological Association, and the chairperson of the clinical advisory board at I V Y Labs. I have written two chapters for a men's health book on living with vitality and work-life balance. I aspire to draw from all my experiences to help you live passionately and move beyond obstacles holding you back.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in California and New York in private practice, a Berkeley-certified executive coach, the 2020 CPA convention chair, the past president of the California Psychological Association, past president of the San Francisco Psychological Association, and the chairperson of the clinical advisory board at I V Y Labs. I have written two chapters for a men's health book on living with vitality and work-life balance. I aspire to draw from all my experiences to help you live passionately and move beyond obstacles holding you back.
(415) 423-2980 View (415) 423-2980
Photo of Abigail M Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94123, CA
Abigail M Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Something just feels "off". You are exhausted from looping in thoughts and patterns that are no longer serving you. You are overwhelmed by the state of things....the anxiety just won't go away, the grief is too much, the challenge is too big, the relationship is too far gone.... you secretly fear that you don't have what it takes to make the change you desire. Together we will uncover pain, fears and unmet desires that drive the spiral. We will rediscover and utilize your strengths to create a life that reflects your values.
Something just feels "off". You are exhausted from looping in thoughts and patterns that are no longer serving you. You are overwhelmed by the state of things....the anxiety just won't go away, the grief is too much, the challenge is too big, the relationship is too far gone.... you secretly fear that you don't have what it takes to make the change you desire. Together we will uncover pain, fears and unmet desires that drive the spiral. We will rediscover and utilize your strengths to create a life that reflects your values.
(415) 991-4021 View (415) 991-4021
Photo of Trudy McMahon, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94123, CA
Trudy McMahon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I Work with individuals/ couples. My background is in substance misuse counseling. I work with trauma, anxiety, depression, body image/ disordered eating. I work in a relational way, that invites the client into the therapeutic process, setting goals, assigning homework if appropriate, coming up with ways to better resource in times of stress/ emotional overwhelm. I enjoy working with people who view themselves as sensitive beings, intuitive /empaths. I am somatically trained, which means I invite the body into the therapy, offering interventions such as mindfulness. I offer EMDR and somatic touch work: Relational Somatic Healing.
I Work with individuals/ couples. My background is in substance misuse counseling. I work with trauma, anxiety, depression, body image/ disordered eating. I work in a relational way, that invites the client into the therapeutic process, setting goals, assigning homework if appropriate, coming up with ways to better resource in times of stress/ emotional overwhelm. I enjoy working with people who view themselves as sensitive beings, intuitive /empaths. I am somatically trained, which means I invite the body into the therapy, offering interventions such as mindfulness. I offer EMDR and somatic touch work: Relational Somatic Healing.
(415) 594-4409 View (415) 594-4409
Photo of Ellen B Klyce, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94123, CA
Ellen B Klyce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I mostly treat couples who are navigating parenting and communication. But I work with individual clients too, Bay area residents who have multiple responsibilities and many demands placed on them daily. I help clients ease their doubt in social situations, calm down the inner critic. In my sessions we explore new ways to connect in many different circumstances. If you have fallen into negative thinking patterns, this constant worry may wear you down. I am there to be your collaborator, to find the best solution for you.
I mostly treat couples who are navigating parenting and communication. But I work with individual clients too, Bay area residents who have multiple responsibilities and many demands placed on them daily. I help clients ease their doubt in social situations, calm down the inner critic. In my sessions we explore new ways to connect in many different circumstances. If you have fallen into negative thinking patterns, this constant worry may wear you down. I am there to be your collaborator, to find the best solution for you.
(510) 768-7175 View (510) 768-7175
Photo of Saara Muscat, Psychologist in 94123, CA
Saara Muscat
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
When I ask my clients what brings them to therapy, I am often told it is because they are feeling “stuck.” Many of my clients struggle with questions related to values and life purpose. Others may require support navigating difficult transitions, setting boundaries, or overcoming burnout in their professional lives and relationships. I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, depression and ADHD using evidence-based approaches. Additionally, I provide preparation/integration for therapeutic ketamine sessions, helping you to make sense of and assimilate the insights you gained during these experiences into your daily life.
When I ask my clients what brings them to therapy, I am often told it is because they are feeling “stuck.” Many of my clients struggle with questions related to values and life purpose. Others may require support navigating difficult transitions, setting boundaries, or overcoming burnout in their professional lives and relationships. I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, depression and ADHD using evidence-based approaches. Additionally, I provide preparation/integration for therapeutic ketamine sessions, helping you to make sense of and assimilate the insights you gained during these experiences into your daily life.
(628) 288-7982 View (628) 288-7982
Photo of Kari Floberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94123, CA
Kari Floberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Therapy can help you locate your internal compass in order to navigate the challenges that life brings. If you are seeking therapy, perhaps some area of your life is out of balance. You may feel conflicted, that you are not finding the connection you want in relationships or not living up to your fullest potential. I can help you make sense of these feelings, cultivate your innate gifts and respectfully let go of old habits so you can live more freely.
Therapy can help you locate your internal compass in order to navigate the challenges that life brings. If you are seeking therapy, perhaps some area of your life is out of balance. You may feel conflicted, that you are not finding the connection you want in relationships or not living up to your fullest potential. I can help you make sense of these feelings, cultivate your innate gifts and respectfully let go of old habits so you can live more freely.
(415) 634-4098 View (415) 634-4098
Photo of Megan Cutaran, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94123, CA
Megan Cutaran
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
If you are looking to create positive changes in your life, but do not know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Megan has experience working with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, work and life stress. She works from an approach that offers comfort and understanding, while also challenging you to become the best version of yourself. She believes that the therapeutic space is a place to grow and evolve into the best version of yourself, and she truly cares about helping you get there.
If you are looking to create positive changes in your life, but do not know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Megan has experience working with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, work and life stress. She works from an approach that offers comfort and understanding, while also challenging you to become the best version of yourself. She believes that the therapeutic space is a place to grow and evolve into the best version of yourself, and she truly cares about helping you get there.
(415) 687-4936 View (415) 687-4936
Photo of Emily Wolf McMane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94123, CA
Emily Wolf McMane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with women, young adults, trauma survivors, and individuals grappling with identity issues, finding purpose in life, and experiencing major life changes. You are not broken, and I am not here to heal you, fix you, rescue you, or make you better. I am here to support you on your journey to discovering your authentic self and releasing old stories and patterns of behaviors that no longer serve you so that you may live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with women, young adults, trauma survivors, and individuals grappling with identity issues, finding purpose in life, and experiencing major life changes. You are not broken, and I am not here to heal you, fix you, rescue you, or make you better. I am here to support you on your journey to discovering your authentic self and releasing old stories and patterns of behaviors that no longer serve you so that you may live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
(707) 615-0653 View (707) 615-0653
Photo of Tessa Gordon - Eating Disorder Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94123, CA
Tessa Gordon - Eating Disorder Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
Eating disorders can feel hopeless, but they aren’t. Whether this is your first time seeking help or your umpteenth time, I believe everyone can recover.  Just as there are many reasons why an eating disorder manifests in your life, the way you recover will be just as unique. If there was a one-size-fits-all solution, that would perhaps be as deceptive as the problem itself. Whether it’s perfectionism, judgment, loneliness, self-improvement, health, fear, family issues…Together we will discover what invites these problems into your life and begin to find what recovery means for you.
Eating disorders can feel hopeless, but they aren’t. Whether this is your first time seeking help or your umpteenth time, I believe everyone can recover.  Just as there are many reasons why an eating disorder manifests in your life, the way you recover will be just as unique. If there was a one-size-fits-all solution, that would perhaps be as deceptive as the problem itself. Whether it’s perfectionism, judgment, loneliness, self-improvement, health, fear, family issues…Together we will discover what invites these problems into your life and begin to find what recovery means for you.
(415) 300-4582 View (415) 300-4582
Photo of Unfold Psychology Men's Group, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94123, CA
Unfold Psychology Men's Group
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Our men's group provides a supportive space where we gather to understand the unique challenges men face, discussing men's issues openly and constructively.
Our men's group provides a supportive space where we gather to understand the unique challenges men face, discussing men's issues openly and constructively.
(650) 993-9321 View (650) 993-9321
Photo of Dr. Sophie Whynacht, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94123, CA
Dr. Sophie Whynacht
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Are you struggling with your relationship to alcohol, food, or other substances? Is your communication with your partner or family member(s) filled with tension or conflict? Do you often feel worried or on edge? Do you ever experience stigma or discrimination from others due to having an identity that is marginalized or misunderstood? I have over 9 years of experience working with people who are dealing with these issues.
Are you struggling with your relationship to alcohol, food, or other substances? Is your communication with your partner or family member(s) filled with tension or conflict? Do you often feel worried or on edge? Do you ever experience stigma or discrimination from others due to having an identity that is marginalized or misunderstood? I have over 9 years of experience working with people who are dealing with these issues.
(415) 853-9005 View (415) 853-9005
Photo of Ashley Paul, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94123, CA
Ashley Paul
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for self-exploration and personal development, especially regarding balancing the emotional and intellectual sides. Trust, authenticity, and validation are my most-used tools throughout my therapeutic process.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for self-exploration and personal development, especially regarding balancing the emotional and intellectual sides. Trust, authenticity, and validation are my most-used tools throughout my therapeutic process.
(415) 801-3848 View (415) 801-3848
Motivational Interviewing Therapists

How does motivational interviewing work?

Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathizes, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.

Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?

Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviors in children.

How long does motivational interviewing last?

Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.

What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?

In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behavior.