Motivational Interviewing Therapy in Victoria, BC

Sometimes you know something needs to change, but moving forward feels harder than it should. Motivational Interviewing therapy at Steady Heart Counselling offers a calm, collaborative space to work through ambivalence, reconnect with what matters most to you, and build confidence in the changes you want to make.

Warm, calm counselling room

Motivational Interviewing Therapy

Motivational Interviewing is a conversational, strength-based approach that helps you clarify what you want, resolve mixed feelings about change, and move forward with greater confidence.

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Motivational Interviewing Therapy

Motivational Interviewing is a conversational, strength-based approach that helps you clarify what you want, resolve mixed feelings about change, and move forward with greater confidence.

A Collaborative Approach to Change

Motivational Interviewing is built on collaboration, respect, and curiosity. Rather than telling you what to do, this approach helps you uncover your own reasons for change. Together, we explore what matters most to you, what may be getting in the way, and what might help you move forward with greater confidence and clarity.

This is not a directive approach. There is no pressure to commit to anything before you are ready. Instead, Motivational Interviewing (MI) works with your values, your goals, and your pace – supporting lasting change that feels authentic and self-directed.

How Motivational Interviewing Can Support You

Motivational Interviewing therapy provides a supportive space to explore your thoughts and feelings while building clarity, confidence, and motivation for change. This approach may be helpful if you are:

Feeling stuck between wanting change and staying where you are
Feeling ambivalent about a major decision or life transition
Concerns related to alcohol, substance use, or other habits
Anxiety, depression, or stress that leaves you feeling stuck
Patterns or behaviours that no longer serve you
Difficulty finding motivation, following through, or getting started
Making changes to your health, sleep, exercise, eating habits, or daily routines
Relationship challenges or recurring conflict
Career uncertainty or a lack of direction
young woman in cozy sweater sitting on couch during therapy session with male counselor holding clipboard in warm, modern counseling office

Motivational Interviewing Therapy Sessions

Motivational Interviewing therapy sessions are conversational and centred around your goals. Using guided questions and reflective listening, we explore ambivalence without judgment, helping you identify what matters most and what may be getting in the way. As your understanding deepens, clarity often emerges naturally, and meaningful change becomes easier to pursue when you’re genuinely ready.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) integrates well with other therapeutic approaches. Depending on your needs, sessions may also draw on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, or trauma-informed care.

Sessions are 50 minutes long. While many clients find Motivational Interviewing effective over a focused number of sessions, the pace and frequency are always guided by your goals, your needs, and your readiness for change.

How to Start Motivational Interviewing Therapy in Victoria

Number 1

Book an Appointment

Request a Motivational Interviewing therapy session online with Steady Heart Counselling

Number 2

Attend Your First Session

Your first session focuses on understanding your current challenges and exploring what change might look like for you.

Number 3

Continue at Your Pace

Ongoing individual sessions are scheduled based on your goals, readiness, and the level of support that feels helpful.

Therapy Options Available

In-Person Sessions in Victoria

In-person counselling sessions take place in a private, safe space in Victoria, BC.

Online Therapy Across British Columbia

Virtual therapy sessions are available for individuals who prefer flexibility or are located outside Victoria.

Registered Clinical Counsellor in Victoria, BC

Paul Cellarius (RCC, CCC, MA)

As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I use Motivational Interviewing to support clients who feel uncertain about change or conflicted about next steps. I’m especially drawn to working with people who feel capable in many areas of life but experience hesitation or shutdown when facing important change.

My background in counselling psychology, along with training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, depth psychology, and trauma-informed care, informs a steady, collaborative practice centred on growth, clarity, and well-being.

Who Is Motivational Interviewing For?

Motivational Interviewing is well suited for people who feel uncertain about change or want support making decisions that align with their values. Rather than being told what to do, you’ll be encouraged to explore your own thoughts, strengthen your motivation, and move forward in a way that feels authentic and sustainable. This approach may be especially helpful if you:

Although Motivational Interviewing is widely known for supporting substance use and habit change, it is equally effective for anxiety, depression, life transitions, low motivation, relationship challenges, career decisions, and other situations where change feels difficult or uncertain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motivational Interviewing Therapy

What is Motivational Interviewing therapy?

Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative counselling approach that helps individuals explore uncertainty about change and strengthen internal motivation.

Is Motivational Interviewing only for addiction?

No. While it is often used in substance use treatment, Motivational Interviewing is also effective for behavioural issues, workplace stress, life transitions, relationship concerns, and mental health challenges.

How is Motivational Interviewing different from other therapies?

Unlike directive approaches, Motivational Interviewing focuses on guiding rather than advising. The therapist helps you draw out your own reasons for change instead of telling you what to do.

Can Motivational Interviewing be combined with other therapies?

Yes. Motivational Interviewing is often integrated with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and other evidence-based approaches.

How many sessions does Motivational Interviewing take?

Many people find Motivational Interviewing effective in a relatively short number of sessions – sometimes as few as 3 to 6 – depending on their goals and readiness for change. Others choose to continue longer if they wish to explore additional concerns or integrate this approach with other forms of therapy. Sessions always move at a pace that feels comfortable and meaningful to you.

Is Motivational Interviewing available online in BC?

Yes. Online sessions are available for individuals across British Columbia through a secure video platform. In-person sessions are also available at the Victoria office.

Is Motivational Interviewing therapy covered by extended health insurance?

Many extended health plans cover sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). Coverage varies by plan and provider. I recommend checking directly with your insurer before booking. For more information, visit the rates and insurance.

If you're feeling stuck, ambivalent, or uncertain about your next steps, Motivational Interviewing therapy in Victoria, BC offers a calm, non-judgmental space to explore what's getting in the way and move toward meaningful change at your own pace. Reach out to book a free 15–20 minute consultation or ask whether this approach might be the right fit for you.

Finding Clarity When You Feel Stuck

Sometimes you know something needs to change, but taking the next step feels harder than expected. Motivational Interviewing helps you work through uncertainty and reconnect with what matters most to you.

Together, we focus on building clarity and confidence so change feels more natural and sustainable. You’re welcome to meet with me in Victoria or connect through online counselling across British Columbia.