Motivational Interviewing Treatment Centers
Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative counseling approach that helps individuals find their own motivation to change addictive behaviors.
Found 60 treatment centers offering motivational interviewing across Massachusetts.
Last reviewed: March 27, 2026
Want us to find the perfect facility for you?
Call now - it's completely free!
Showing 20 of 60 motivational interviewing treatment centers

CleanSlate Centers, located in New Bedford, MA, provides outpatient treatment programs designed for individuals dealing with substance use disorders. The center specializes in the administration of methadone or buprenorphine, as well as naltrexone treatment. To facilitate recovery, the team utilizes motivational interviewing techniques, relapse prevention strategies, and counseling specifically tailored to address substance use challenges. Focusing on personalized care, CleanSlate Centers serves both adults and young adults of all genders. The facility is designed to foster a safe and supportive atmosphere for those in need of assistance with addiction, offering quality care and customized treatment plans that support individuals along their path to sobriety.

Situated in Boston, MA, Healthcare Resource Centers provides extensive services for individuals dealing with substance use issues, specifically targeting adults and young adults. The facility offers outpatient treatment options, including methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, alongside regular outpatient services. It also features tailored programs designed for adult men, adult women, and those who have experienced trauma, ensuring a well-rounded approach to recovery. The center emphasizes various therapeutic techniques such as anger management, contingency management, motivational incentives, and motivational interviewing, allowing for a personalized treatment experience. By focusing on individualized care, Healthcare Resource Centers aims to support clients throughout their recovery journey.

Advocates Community Counseling, located in Harvard, MA, specializes in outpatient treatment for substance use and serves both adults facing co-occurring mental health challenges and children experiencing significant emotional disturbances. The facility implements regular outpatient sessions that incorporate techniques such as anger management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. With an emphasis on personalized care, this center is dedicated to supporting adult and senior clients across all genders. Advocates Community Counseling distinguishes itself through its individualized approach to treatment, ensuring that each person receives the necessary care and support tailored to their specific needs. For those in search of effective addiction treatment within an inviting setting, this facility provides evidence-based therapies aimed at fostering recovery.

Spectrum Health Systems Inc, situated in Southbridge, MA, provides a range of substance use treatment options for both adults and young adults. The facility specializes in outpatient care and offers targeted support for individuals facing both substance use issues and significant mental health challenges. Employing evidence-based methodologies like cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, the program also incorporates contingency management techniques to aid in the recovery process. Spectrum Health Systems Inc serves various populations, including active duty military members, as well as adult men and women, with a commitment to delivering personalized care for each individual. The center emphasizes the importance of quality and customized treatment plans, aiming to assist patients in achieving sustainable recovery.

Middlesex Recovery PC, located in Gloucester, MA, provides a range of outpatient services designed to assist individuals in their recovery from substance use. The center specializes in treatments such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, applying evidence-based methodologies including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention. This comprehensive approach emphasizes individualized care, allowing the center to meet the specific needs of adults and young adults of all genders. By focusing on tailored programming, Middlesex Recovery PC strives to create a supportive and effective environment for those who are seeking assistance with addiction recovery.

MiraVista Behavioral Health Center, situated in Holyoke, MA, offers tailored substance use treatment programs designed for both adults and young adults. The facility provides a variety of outpatient services, which include intensive outpatient treatment as well as outpatient programs featuring methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. Employing evidence-based methods such as 12-step facilitation, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, MiraVista is committed to delivering personalized care to meet the unique needs of each individual. The center also includes specialized programs for clients living with HIV or AIDS and for pregnant or postpartum women, ensuring that these populations receive thoughtful and knowledgeable attention. By serving both male and female clients, MiraVista focuses on offering quality care and support for those who are pursuing recovery from substance use disorders.

Spectrum Health Systems Inc., located in Weymouth, MA, provides a range of services focused on treating substance use disorders. Their offerings include outpatient treatment, as well as outpatient programs specifically using methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. The facility implements evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management with motivational incentives, and motivational interviewing. This comprehensive approach supports both adult men and women, including individuals who have faced intimate partner violence or domestic violence. Spectrum Health Systems Inc. is committed to delivering personalized care to adults and young adults of all genders, fostering a nurturing environment aimed at promoting sustainable recovery.

Youth Opportunities Upheld Inc, based in Worcester, MA, provides outpatient treatment for individuals dealing with substance use issues, as well as those facing serious mental health challenges that often occur alongside these conditions. The facility employs a range of evidence-based treatment methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, to deliver regular outpatient services. Designed to accommodate both adults and children or adolescents, the center also features specialized programs aimed at supporting clients who have experienced intimate partner violence, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. With a commitment to serving male and female clients alike, the organization focuses on offering comprehensive care and personalized interventions to assist individuals on their recovery journey.

Healthcare Resource Centers, situated in Westfield, MA, provides outpatient treatment for substance use disorders through evidence-based methods. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and contingency management. The facility has tailored programs specifically designed for active duty military personnel as well as for adult men and women. Catering primarily to adults and young adults regardless of gender, the center offers outpatient services that encompass the administration of methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. Healthcare Resource Centers aims to deliver personalized care and treatment to assist individuals on their journey toward recovery from addiction.

CleanSlate Centers, located in Leominster, MA, provides outpatient treatment for substance use disorders. The facility offers a range of services, including outpatient options involving methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone therapy. Emphasizing techniques such as motivational interviewing and relapse prevention, CleanSlate Centers develops personalized treatment programs aimed at both adults and young adults. The center accommodates clients of all genders, ensuring that each person receives care that meets their specific needs. With a focus on creating a supportive environment, the experienced staff at CleanSlate Centers is dedicated to delivering quality treatment to facilitate lasting recovery. If you're looking for specialized addiction treatment, CleanSlate Centers serves as a significant resource during your recovery process.

Located in Fall River, MA, the Family Healthcare Center at SSTAR provides an array of specialized treatment programs addressing substance use issues alongside co-occurring mental health disorders. Utilizing evidence-based methodologies, their outpatient and intensive outpatient services incorporate strategies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and contingency management. The center has developed programs specifically designed for active duty military personnel, adolescents, and adult men, ensuring that individuals receive personalized care tailored to their unique needs. Catering to adults and seniors of all genders, the center emphasizes a commitment to quality care through its diverse array of treatment options, making it a significant resource for those pursuing comprehensive rehabilitation services in the Fall River community.

Situated in Tewksbury, MA, Lahey Health Behavioral Services delivers a range of detoxification programs designed for both adults and young adults. The facility emphasizes motivational interviewing, relapse prevention strategies, and counseling specifically for substance use disorders. It offers dedicated treatment options for adult men and women, as well as individuals who have encountered trauma. Clients benefit from hospital inpatient detoxification services and around-the-clock care in a supportive environment. Lahey Health Behavioral Services is committed to addressing the individual needs of each person, fostering a safe space for recovery while aiming to support clients in their journey toward sustained sobriety and overall well-being.

Middlesex Recovery PC, located in Stoughton, MA, provides specialized outpatient treatment programs aimed at addressing substance use concerns for both adults and young adults. The center employs a variety of evidence-based treatments, which include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and counseling for substance use disorders. Prioritizing individualized care, Middlesex Recovery PC ensures that each client receives focused and personal attention tailored to their unique situation. Additionally, they offer outpatient options involving methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone to meet the varying needs of their clients. The facility is open to both men and women who are in search of effective and understanding support for their addiction recovery journeys. Middlesex Recovery PC is noteworthy for its dedication to delivering quality care and a comprehensive support system designed to assist individuals as they work toward recovery.

Old Colony Comprehensive Counseling, located in Brockton, MA, provides outpatient services for substance use treatment, as well as specialized support for those facing both substance use challenges and serious mental health issues or emotional disturbances. The facility employs evidence-based methodologies, including anger management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, to create personalized treatment plans that cater to the unique needs of each individual. Serving a diverse population of adults and seniors across all genders, Old Colony Comprehensive Counseling is recognized for its extensive and empathetic care approach. The center prioritizes quality and individualized attention, making it a reliable choice for individuals in the Brockton area who are in search of effective rehabilitation services.

The Institute for Health and Recovery Inc, situated in Watertown, MA, provides outpatient treatment for substance use, catering to both adults and children who are experiencing co-occurring serious mental health disorders. The facility emphasizes brief intervention, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, offering regular outpatient programs designed to address the unique needs of each individual. In particular, the center focuses on providing support for adolescents, pregnant and postpartum women, as well as young adults, ensuring that both males and females receive appropriate gender-specific care. The commitment to delivering quality services and a comprehensive treatment approach makes this facility a notable option for those in need of compassionate addiction support.

Situated in Fall River, MA, the Mental Health Clinic provides targeted outpatient services for both substance use and co-occurring disorders affecting adults and children. The clinic utilizes a range of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and strategies for relapse prevention. Emphasizing trauma-informed care, the facility serves adults and seniors across all genders, tailoring its programs to address the specific challenges faced by clients struggling with addiction and mental health concerns. The Mental Health Clinic is committed to delivering evidence-based care, supporting individuals as they navigate their path to recovery.

Arbour Counseling Services, located in Jamaica Plain, MA, provides a variety of evidence-based treatment options aimed at addressing substance use issues and co-occurring mental health disorders for both adults and children. The facility offers several program formats, including intensive outpatient, outpatient, and day treatment, ensuring flexibility to meet patients' needs. Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing are utilized to create a personalized care experience for each individual. The center also features specialized programs designed for adult men, trauma survivors, and individuals facing co-occurring conditions. Emphasizing quality care, Arbour Counseling Services supports adults and young adults of all genders in their journey toward comprehensive rehabilitation.

Behavioral Health Network (BHN), situated in Westfield, MA, provides outpatient treatment for substance use aimed at both adults and children experiencing significant mental health challenges. The center employs therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and anger management to create individualized care plans tailored for its male and female clients. BHN places particular emphasis on co-occurring disorders, servicing adults and seniors who are in search of well-rounded treatment options within a standard outpatient environment. By focusing on personalized programs, the facility addresses the unique needs of each individual, striving to deliver quality care and support throughout their recovery process.

High Point OTP New Bedford, located in New Bedford, MA, delivers a wide range of substance use treatment options for both adults and children dealing with co-occurring serious mental health challenges. The center specializes in intensive outpatient programs and outpatient services, alongside targeted treatments featuring methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. Emphasizing therapeutic approaches such as anger management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, the facility serves individuals who have faced various forms of trauma, including intimate partner violence, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. With services available for all genders, High Point OTP New Bedford is committed to offering personalized care aimed at supporting clients on their paths to recovery through evidence-based practices.

Situated in Salem, Massachusetts, the JRI Behavioral Health Center specializes in outpatient treatment for both substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders affecting adults and children. The center employs evidence-based methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, which are tailored to meet the unique needs of clients who have faced trauma. Its programs encompass a wide spectrum of populations, focusing specifically on adolescents, individuals with co-occurring disorders, and seniors, ensuring that a variety of needs are addressed. Both male and female clients can anticipate receiving compassionate and professional care, establishing the center as a reliable option for those in search of thorough rehabilitation services.
About Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based counseling approach developed by psychologists William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick in the early 1980s. MI was specifically designed to help individuals who are ambivalent about change — a common experience for people struggling with addiction. Rather than confronting or persuading, MI works by drawing out a person's own motivations for change, making it one of the most widely used and effective approaches in addiction treatment worldwide.
What Is Motivational Interviewing?
MI is a collaborative, person-centered counseling style that strengthens an individual's own motivation and commitment to change. It recognizes that most people considering recovery have mixed feelings — they may want to stop using but also fear life without substances, doubt their ability to change, or feel overwhelmed by the process.
Instead of telling someone what to do, MI helps them explore their own reasons for change. Research consistently shows that people are more likely to follow through on decisions they make themselves than on advice given by others — even well-meaning professionals.
The Spirit of MI
MI is defined by four core elements that form its "spirit":
- Partnership: The therapist and client are equal partners in the process. The therapist is not the expert telling the client what to do — rather, they create a collaborative atmosphere of mutual respect and trust.
- Acceptance: Four components — absolute worth (unconditional positive regard), accurate empathy, autonomy support (respecting the client's right to make their own choices), and affirmation (recognizing strengths and efforts).
- Compassion: The therapist actively promotes the client's welfare and prioritizes their needs. This is not just being "nice" but genuinely working in the client's best interest.
- Evocation: The therapist draws out the client's own ideas, values, and motivations rather than imposing external ones. The assumption is that the client already has what they need — the therapist helps them find it.
How MI Works in Treatment
MI uses specific conversational techniques to guide individuals toward positive change:
Core MI Techniques (OARS)
- Open-ended questions: Questions that invite reflection rather than yes/no answers. "What concerns do you have about your drinking?" vs. "Do you think you drink too much?"
- Affirmations: Genuine statements recognizing the client's strengths, efforts, and values. "It took real courage to come here today."
- Reflective listening: The therapist mirrors back what the client says, deepening understanding and helping the client hear their own words. This is MI's most critical skill.
- Summarizing: Pulling together key themes from the conversation, particularly statements favoring change ("change talk").
Working with Ambivalence
Ambivalence — simultaneously wanting and not wanting to change — is normal, not a sign of denial or resistance. MI helps resolve ambivalence by:
- Exploring the discrepancy between current behavior and deeply held values or goals
- Eliciting "change talk" — statements where the client expresses desire, ability, reasons, or need for change
- Rolling with resistance rather than arguing against it — when a therapist pushes, the client naturally pushes back
- Supporting self-efficacy — strengthening the client's belief that change is possible
MI in Addiction Treatment Settings
MI is used across the treatment continuum in Massachusetts:
- Pre-treatment engagement: Helping individuals who are not yet ready for treatment move toward accepting help
- Assessment and intake: MI-informed intake processes increase treatment engagement and retention
- Integrated with other therapies: MI is frequently combined with CBT (MI-CBT) to first build motivation, then teach skills
- Medication compliance: Supporting adherence to MAT and psychiatric medications
- Relapse recovery: Rebuilding motivation after setbacks without shame or judgment
- Brief interventions: MI can be effective in as few as 1-4 sessions, making it valuable in emergency departments and primary care
Effectiveness Research
MI has one of the most robust evidence bases of any counseling approach:
- Over 1,500 clinical trials have studied MI across diverse populations and settings
- Meta-analyses show MI significantly improves treatment engagement, retention, and outcomes for alcohol, opioid, stimulant, and marijuana use disorders
- Even brief MI interventions (1-2 sessions) produce measurable effects that can last 12 months or more
- MI is effective regardless of client readiness — it benefits both those who are ambivalent and those already motivated
- MI combined with CBT produces stronger outcomes than either approach alone
Frequently Asked Questions
How is MI different from regular counseling?
Traditional counseling often involves the therapist giving advice, education, and direction. MI deliberately avoids this approach because research shows that unsolicited advice often triggers resistance. Instead, MI draws out the client's own reasons for change, which produces stronger and more lasting motivation.
What if I'm not ready to change?
MI is specifically designed for people who aren't sure they want or are ready to change. There is no pressure or judgment. MI meets you where you are and helps you explore your own feelings about your situation. Many people discover their own motivation for change through the MI process.
How many MI sessions will I need?
MI can be effective in as few as 1-4 sessions. It is often used as an initial phase of treatment (2-4 sessions) before transitioning to other therapies like CBT. Some therapists integrate MI principles throughout longer-term treatment.
Can MI work for co-occurring mental health conditions?
Yes. MI has been successfully applied to depression, anxiety, eating disorders, gambling, medication adherence, and health behavior change. For dual diagnosis, MI can address motivation for treating both conditions.
Does insurance cover MI?
Yes. MI is covered as part of substance use disorder and mental health treatment under MassHealth and most commercial insurance plans in Massachusetts.
For more information about motivational interviewing:
- Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT)
- NIDA — Evidence-Based Behavioral Therapies
- SAMHSA National Helpline — 1-800-662-4357
Find treatment centers using MI in Massachusetts through our directory, or call the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline at 1-800-327-5050.