Supportive, Strengths-Based Therapy to Help You Create Lasting Change

Embarking on a path of change can feel overwhelming, especially when motivation is low or self-doubt stands in the way. At Wholesome Psychology, serving Edmonton and St. Albert, we believe that every person holds the power for growth within themselves. Our motivational interviewing services are tailored to help individuals unlock their potential, resolve ambivalence, and move forward with greater purpose and confidence.
For more about our unique approach, visit our unique approach page.

What Is Motivational Interviewing?

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a client-centered, evidence-based counseling approach that nurtures intrinsic motivation to change. Developed by psychologists William Miller and Stephen Rollnick, this method is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and respect for individual autonomy. It is especially effective for those experiencing mixed feelings about changing behaviors—such as addressing unhealthy habits, coping with addiction, or navigating major life transitions.

Our therapists use motivational interviewing to help you clarify your values and goals, resolve ambivalence, and strengthen your commitment to meaningful change. Rooted in the principles of partnership, compassion, acceptance, and evocation, MI empowers you to become an active participant in your own healing journey.

Curious about fees or how to get started? See our fees or learn about getting started.

Who Can Benefit from Motivational Interviewing?

Motivational interviewing is a versatile therapy that benefits individuals facing:

• Substance use challenges or addiction recovery
• Health behavior change, such as smoking cessation, nutrition, or exercise (quit smoking counseling)
• Managing anxiety, depression, or low mood
• Workplace or academic performance issues (workplace stress)
• Relationship difficulties and communication concerns
• Overcoming procrastination or self-sabotage
• Life transitions, such as starting university, a new job, or major family events (life transitions)

If you find yourself stuck between wanting to make a change and feeling unready or uncertain, MI can provide you with compassionate, skilled support. Explore how our services can help.

The Core Principles of Motivational Interviewing

Our Edmonton and St. Albert therapists are trained in the founding tenets of MI. These core principles include:

• Expressing empathy: Our therapists offer a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you are listened to and validated. This helps build trust and rapport—laying the groundwork for honest conversations about change.
• Developing discrepancy: We gently explore the gap between your current behaviors and your deeper values. Recognizing this discrepancy can spark motivation and highlight why change is meaningful to you.
• Rolling with resistance: Rather than confronting or arguing, our therapists honor your perspective and invite you to reflect on your ambivalence. We respect your choices and timeline for change.
• Supporting self-efficacy: You are the expert in your own life. We help you discover and build confidence in your ability to choose and sustain positive change.

Looking for therapy near you? Check out our North Edmonton and St. Albert Campbell Park locations.

What to Expect During Motivational Interviewing Sessions

At Wholesome Psychology, your MI sessions are personalized and collaborative. Here’s what you might experience when you work with one of our local therapists:

• A warm, welcoming environment—available in-person at our Edmonton or St. Albert locations, or securely online (virtual therapy)
• Open-ended questions and reflective listening to deepen self-awareness
• Guided exploration of your hopes, goals, and values
• A focus on your strengths, resilience, and readiness for change
• Gentle guidance in creating an actionable, realistic plan tailored to your current situation
• Consistent encouragement as you practice new strategies and celebrate progress—no matter how small

We honor your lived experience and recognize each step forward as valuable, no matter how big or small. For more insight, see what to expect from therapy.

Why Choose Wholesome Psychology for Motivational Interviewing?

We are rooted in the Edmonton and St. Albert communities, and our practice is guided by values of inclusivity, authenticity, and respect. Our therapists blend evidence-based approaches with a naturally warm, open, and understanding manner. We believe in caring for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Whether you are facing significant life changes or striving to break free from old patterns, our approach is always strengths-based and collaborative—you decide the pace and direction.

Our counselors also collaborate with other specialists when needed and offer referrals to complementary services. Meet our therapists to find the right fit for your unique needs, or discover our full range of services.

How Is Motivational Interviewing Used with Other Therapies?

Motivational interviewing often complements other counseling modalities. For example, it may be used alongside cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or person-centered therapy to increase your readiness for change and strengthen outcomes. Many clients discover that starting with MI unlocks deeper work in areas such as trauma healing, managing anxiety, or addressing depression.

We honor your unique background and tailor our integrative approach to maximize your success. Explore all our counseling services.

Motivational Interviewing in Edmonton & St. Albert: Local, Compassionate Specialists

We proudly serve individuals across Edmonton and St. Albert—including university students, working professionals, parents, and anyone ready to reclaim their sense of agency. No matter where you start, our local team will walk alongside you with respect, patience, and encouragement.

Are you ready to explore change on your terms? Book a session with one of our motivational interviewing therapists today. For further information about counseling services, please explore our resources on anxiety and depression, quit smoking, or trauma therapy.

Begin Your Journey with Wholesome Psychology

Positive change is possible for everyone. If you or a loved one are seeking to address ambivalence and rediscover your motivation, we are here to support you every step of the way. Our approach combines deep respect for your story with practical, evidence-informed strategies proven to work.

Contact Wholesome Psychology today to take your first step. With locations in Edmonton and St. Albert, we are proud to be your local partner in growth, healing, and compassionate change.

Book with a local therapist in Edmonton or St. Albert or contact us to discuss your counseling needs. Together, let’s unlock your potential and create the life you want to live.