Change is hard — especially when part of you wants things to be different and another part isn't sure. Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative, evidence-based therapy approach that helps individuals find their own motivation for change rather than being told what to do. At Evans Counseling Group, our therapists use MI to help clients navigate a wide range of mental health challenges, substance use, behavior change, and more.
What is Motivational Interviewing?
Motivational Interviewing — commonly known as MI — is a person-centered counseling style that helps people explore ambivalence about change and strengthen their own motivation to move forward. Rather than pushing or persuading, an MI therapist walks alongside you — drawing out your own reasons for change and helping you build confidence in your ability to make it happen.
MI is effective for:
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Mental health treatment engagement
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Anxiety and avoidance behaviors
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Substance use and addiction recovery
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Alcohol use and reduction
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Unhealthy eating or lifestyle patterns
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Medication adherence
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Chronic illness management
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Anyone feeling stuck or ambivalent about making changes
How Our Therapists Use Motivational Interviewing
MI at Evans Counseling Group is always integrated into a personalized treatment plan — used alongside other evidence-based approaches to support your specific goals. Our therapists are trained in the core MI skills:​
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Open-Ended Questions Encouraging you to explore your own thoughts and feelings about change rather than giving yes/no answers — creating space for deeper reflection.
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Affirmations Recognizing and building on your existing strengths and past successes to build confidence in your ability to change.
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Reflective Listening Deeply understanding what you're saying and reflecting it back — helping you feel genuinely heard and helping you hear yourself more clearly.
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Summarizing Pulling together what you've shared to highlight your own motivations for change and clarify next steps.
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Evoking Change Talk Gently drawing out your own reasons, desire, and commitment to change — because change that comes from within is far more lasting than change imposed from outside.
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Your MI therapist will work with you to identify which skills are most relevant to your situation and build a personalized treatment plan around your goals.
Motivational Interviewing Therapy in Denver
Evans Counseling Group offers motivational interviewing therapy at our Cherry Creek and Highlands locations in Denver, as well as via telehealth across Colorado. We work with adults, teens, and families, and we accept most major insurance plans including Medicaid.
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If you're feeling stuck or not sure you're ready to change, that's exactly where MI starts.
Common Questions About Motivational Interviewing
What is motivational interviewing used for?
MI is most commonly used for substance use and addiction, but it's also effective for anyone feeling ambivalent about change — whether that's related to mental health, lifestyle, relationships, or behavior patterns.
How long does motivational interviewing therapy take?
MI can be effective in as few as 1-4 sessions for some issues, or integrated into longer-term therapy depending on what you're working through. Your therapist will discuss a plan with you from the start.
Is motivational interviewing the same as regular therapy?
MI is a counseling style rather than a standalone therapy — it's often integrated with other approaches like CBT or trauma-focused therapy. It's particularly useful early in treatment to build engagement and motivation for change.
Does insurance cover motivational interviewing therapy in Denver?
Yes. Evans Counseling Group accepts most major insurance plans including Medicaid. Contact us to verify your specific coverage.
Do you offer motivational interviewing near me via telehealth?
Yes. We offer telehealth sessions for clients across Colorado. Online motivational interviewing therapy is just as effective as in-person and accessible from anywhere in the state.
Ready to take the first step? Contact Evans Counseling Group today to get matched with a therapist who's the right fit for you.
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