Find Your Why with Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing (MI) helps clients explore ambivalence, clarify values, and strengthen intrinsic motivation for change. This client-centered, collaborative method supports decision-making and behavioral shifts without pressure, confrontation, or judgment.
What Is Motivational Interviewing and How Does It Help?
Motivational Interviewing is a structured, collaborative method that helps people resolve internal conflict and move toward meaningful change. Rather than pushing solutions, MI supports your own process of deciding, acting, and growing—guided by your values and autonomy.
Key Benefits
Resolves Ambivalence
Helps you explore both sides of change—why you want it and what’s holding you back.
Supports Self-Efficacy
Reinforces your capacity to make choices and take action that aligns with your values.
Increases Readiness for Change
Strengthens internal motivation rather than applying external pressure.
Improves Decision-Making
Clarifies goals, beliefs, and barriers through guided, judgment-free conversation.
Treatment Goals
Enhance Motivation for Change
Identify and amplify your personal reasons for wanting to grow.
Strengthen Self-Reflection
Understand your behavior in the context of your values and long-term goals.
Build Confidence and Autonomy
Reinforce belief in your own ability to take steps toward change.
Reduce Resistance and Reactance
Replace pressure with partnership in making difficult choices.
Motivational Interviewing for Value-Driven Change and Personal Growth
Motivational Interviewing helps clients explore ambivalence, connect with personal values, and strengthen motivation to make lasting change. This collaborative method supports your autonomy while guiding you toward decisions that align with your goals and inner truth.
The Process
The Process
The Process
1
1
Engagement Through Empathy
Build trust through affirming, nonjudgmental dialogue focused on your story.
2
2
Exploring Ambivalence
Use open-ended questions to draw out conflicting thoughts, fears, and desires around change.
3
3
Eliciting Change Talk
Highlight language that reflects your desire, ability, reasons, and need for change.
4
4
Clarifying Values and Goals
Identify what matters most to you and how current behaviors align—or don’t.
5
5
Planning for Change
When ready, develop a self-directed, concrete plan for action and support.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
Historical Development
Techniques Used
OARS (Open-Ended Questions, Affirmation, Reflective Listening, Summarizing)
Core MI communication tools used to explore, affirm, and support change.
Decisional Balance
Weigh pros and cons of changing versus staying the same.
Change Talk Amplification
Reinforce client’s own statements expressing desire, ability, reason, or need for change.
Confidence Rulers
Rate readiness, importance, and confidence numerically to open discussion.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
Historical Development
Techniques Used
OARS (Open-Ended Questions, Affirmation, Reflective Listening, Summarizing)
Core MI communication tools used to explore, affirm, and support change.
Decisional Balance
Weigh pros and cons of changing versus staying the same.
Change Talk Amplification
Reinforce client’s own statements expressing desire, ability, reason, or need for change.
Confidence Rulers
Rate readiness, importance, and confidence numerically to open discussion.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
History
Techniques Used
OARS (Open-Ended Questions, Affirmation, Reflective Listening, Summarizing)
Core MI communication tools used to explore, affirm, and support change.
Decisional Balance
Weigh pros and cons of changing versus staying the same.
Change Talk Amplification
Reinforce client’s own statements expressing desire, ability, reason, or need for change.
Confidence Rulers
Rate readiness, importance, and confidence numerically to open discussion.
Typical Exercises
Typical Exercises
Decisional Balance Worksheet
Compare short- and long-term effects of change versus staying the same.
Values Clarification Tool
Identify and rank your core values to guide decision-making.
Confidence Scaling
Rate belief in your ability to make change from 1–10 and explore what would move the number.
Change Talk Journal
Write down daily statements or thoughts that reflect your internal drive to change.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call
at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?
What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?
What types of therapy services do you offer?
How flexible are your scheduling options?
Can I get online therapy in California from FamilyTime Centers?
How do I start therapy in Valley Village, Los Angeles
Does FamilyTime Centers accept insurance in Los Angeles?
What therapy is offered for anxiety in Los Angeles?
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?
What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?
What types of therapy services do you offer?
How flexible are your scheduling options?
Can I get online therapy in California from FamilyTime Centers?
How do I start therapy in Valley Village, Los Angeles
Does FamilyTime Centers accept insurance in Los Angeles?
What therapy is offered for anxiety in Los Angeles?
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
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12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
✉️ Email | 📞 Call Now | 📍 View on Google Maps
© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.
Join FamilyTime's newsletter
Receive expert advice, coping strategies, and mental wellness resources from our licensed California therapists - delivered weekly.
By submitting your email, you are consenting to receive emails from FamilyTime Center and accepting the terms.
Find care
By conditon
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12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
✉️ Email | 📞 Call Now | 📍 View on Google Maps
© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.
Join FamilyTime's newsletter
Receive expert advice, coping strategies, and mental wellness resources from our licensed California therapists - delivered weekly.
By submitting your email, you are consenting to receive emails from FamilyTime Center and accepting the terms.
Find care
By conditon
Types of care
Our approaches
By region
Legal pages
12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
✉️ Email | 📞 Call Now | 📍 View on Google Maps
© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.