Motivational Interviewing (MI) in Frankfort, IL
Empower Change. Build Confidence. Find Your Direction.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a collaborative, client-centered therapy that helps individuals strengthen their motivation and commitment to change. Rather than pushing for immediate transformation, MI meets clients where they are—helping them explore ambivalence, clarify goals, and reconnect with their own values. At Full Circle Counseling and Wellness, our therapists use MI to guide clients toward lasting growth, self-awareness, and positive life choices. This gentle, empowering approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and belief in each person’s capacity for change.
How Motivational Interviewing Works
Motivational Interviewing helps clients move through resistance and uncertainty by focusing on collaboration rather than confrontation. The therapist and client work together to uncover inner motivations and identify barriers to progress in a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment.
Core principles of MI include:
Expressing Empathy: Building a safe, understanding relationship through reflective listening and validation.
Developing Discrepancy: Helping clients recognize the gap between current behaviors and desired goals or values.
Rolling with Resistance: Avoiding argument or pressure—gently guiding clients to explore their own readiness for change.
Supporting Self-Efficacy: Reinforcing confidence and belief in the client’s ability to make positive, lasting changes.
Through thoughtful conversation and affirmation, clients learn to recognize their own strengths and create momentum toward meaningful change.
Who Can Benefit from Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing is helpful for anyone feeling stuck or uncertain about making changes in their life. It’s particularly effective for:
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Addiction recovery or substance use challenges
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Health and lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, chronic illness management)
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Anxiety, depression, or stress-related avoidance
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Enhancing motivation for therapy or personal goals
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Relationship or career transitions
By nurturing self-awareness and intrinsic motivation, MI helps clients reconnect with their personal strengths and move toward the life they want.
Your Motivational Interviewing Specialists at Full Circle
Recommended Therapist: Elizabeth Mabbott, LPC
Liz’s warm, collaborative approach and background in mindfulness-based therapies align naturally with Motivational Interviewing. She helps clients explore what’s holding them back while empowering them to make intentional, values-driven choices.
“Liz believes change begins when clients feel truly heard, respected, and trusted to lead their own transformation.”
Other Supporting Therapists:
AnneMarie Nawrocki, LSW – Uses MI techniques to help clients living with chronic illness and disability rediscover confidence and adaptability.
Alyson LoVerde, LSW – Applies MI to help survivors of domestic violence and trauma regain control and self-empowerment in decision-making.
What to Expect During Motivational Interviewing Sessions
During your MI sessions, your therapist will help you explore your goals, ambivalence, and readiness for change. Conversations are guided by curiosity, compassion, and respect—never judgment. You’ll gain clarity on your own motivations and develop an actionable plan for progress. Many clients describe MI as a refreshing and empowering experience that strengthens both confidence and commitment to lasting change.
Begin Motivational Interviewing in Frankfort, IL
If you’re feeling uncertain about your next steps or struggling to make lasting change, Motivational Interviewing can help. At Full Circle Counseling and Wellness, our therapists create a supportive environment where your goals, values, and strengths guide the process.
You have the power to create change—let us help you find it.
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