Motivational Interviewing (MI) Therapist in Venice
Find Your Why. Strengthen Your Will. Create Change That Sticks.
In our Motivational Interviewing (MI) sessions, we work on:
• Exploring ambivalence without pressure or shame
• Clarifying your goals, desires, and reasons for change
• Identifying what’s worked (and what hasn’t) in the past
• Strengthening intrinsic motivation and self-efficacy
• Recognizing and addressing resistance in a supportive way
• Building confidence and readiness for action
• Creating personalized strategies for behavior change
• Cultivating ownership, choice, and empowerment
Change is hard—even when we want to change. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, health goals, habits, or ambivalence about your next steps, Motivational Interviewing (MI) offers a nonjudgmental, collaborative approach to help you explore your inner motivation and move toward meaningful, lasting transformation.
As a licensed psychotherapist trained in MI, I don’t tell you what to do—I help you uncover what you want to do, what’s been getting in the way, and how you can take empowered action that feels aligned with your values and vision.
You don’t have to be 100% ready to begin. You just have to be curious—and willing to explore what’s possible. Let’s help you move from stuck to motivated—from knowing what you “should” do to doing what you truly want.
I provide therapy in Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Venice, Marina Del Rey, Culver City, Mar Vista, Playa Del Rey, West Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades, Palms, and Santa Monica.
If you’re feeling stuck, unsure of your next steps, or struggling to make lasting changes in your life, working with a Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapist could be the turning point. This evidence-based approach is ideal for people who want to shift harmful behaviors, reduce ambivalence, or find clarity in their goals. With guidance from a professionally trained MI, you can explore what’s holding you back and develop real motivation to move forward.
Steven Kilmann, LMFT, offers expert Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapy in Venice Beach, helping clients reconnect with their values, overcome resistance, and commit to change on their own terms. Whether you're addressing addiction, unhealthy habits, or mental health struggles, MI empowers you to make decisions from a place of confidence and purpose.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
What MI therapy is and how it works
Who can benefit most from it?
What sessions with an MI therapist look like
Why clients in Venice Beach choose Steven Kilmann, LMFT
How MI integrates with other therapies, including Mindfulness-Based Therapy in Venice
Let’s dive in and help you decide if MI therapy is the right step for you.
What Is Motivational Interviewing (MI) Therapy?
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a collaborative talk therapy method that focuses on helping individuals strengthen their own motivation and commitment to change. Unlike traditional therapy, which may direct or advise, MI centers the client as the expert in their life.
Key features of MI therapy include:
A non-judgmental, supportive environment
Open-ended questions to explore your values
Reflections that clarify your thoughts
Affirmations that build confidence
MI is particularly effective when someone is unsure about change or feels resistant, yet wants a different outcome in life.
Who Can Benefit from Working with a Motivational Interviewing (MI) Therapist?
People often seek Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapy when they are:
Battling substance use or addictive behaviors
Struggling with lifestyle changes like dieting or quitting smoking
Facing ambivalence in relationships or major decisions
Experiencing burnout or a lack of motivation
Steven Kilmann, LMFT, works with clients at many different crossroads. His MI therapy in Venice Beach often supports those who feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or disconnected from what matters most to them.
How Does a Motivational Interviewing Session Work?
In each session, the goal isn’t to fix you—it’s to explore your goals and help you find your own reasons for change. Sessions are structured but flexible, adapting to where you are mentally and emotionally.
During a typical session, expect:
Empathetic listening without pressure
Guided discussion about your values and goals
Exploration of what’s preventing change
Encouragement of your autonomy in decision-making
This person-centered approach helps you reduce internal conflict, take ownership of change, and build a realistic plan at your own pace.
Why Choose Steven Kilmann, LMFT, for MI Therapy in Venice Beach?
Steven Kilmann, LMFT, brings a grounded and compassionate presence to every session. His clients appreciate his ability to stay present without judgment, helping them explore deeply personal challenges with clarity and confidence.
What sets Steven apart:
Extensive training in Motivational Interviewing (MI) Therapy
Experience treating individuals with addiction, grief, and emotional blocks
A supportive practice environment located near Venice Beach
Integration of Mindfulness-Based Therapy for a holistic approach
If you’re looking for a Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapist in Venice Beach who respects your voice and offers practical guidance, Steven Kilmann, LMFT, is a trusted choice.
Many clients combine MI with other approaches such as grief therapy or neurodivergent therapy, which Steven offers as part of his wider practice. You can explore these services further on his Services page.
Combining MI Therapy with Mindfulness-Based Therapy in Venice
For some clients, pairing MI with Mindfulness-Based Therapy in Venice creates a powerful blend of awareness and action. While MI focuses on your motivation to change, mindfulness helps you stay present and reduce reactivity.
This combination works well for:
Stress and anxiety
Emotional regulation
Building healthy habits
Reducing compulsive behavior
Steven’s integrative approach allows you to explore both your intentions and your patterns, helping you shift behavior with greater self-awareness.
What People Say About Working with Steven Kilmann, LMFT
Many clients have found MI therapy life-changing under Steven’s guidance. Though we do not fabricate reviews, real feedback from platforms like Google and Yelp consistently praises Steven’s:
Calm and caring demeanor
Deep listening skills
Clear, actionable support
Clients often mention how Steven made them feel heard and empowered during times of personal uncertainty.
How to Get Started with a Motivational Interviewing (MI) Therapist in Venice
Booking an appointment with Steven is simple. Whether you're new to therapy or returning after a break, his office provides a welcoming space in Venice Beach for reflection, growth, and change.
To explore if Motivational Interviewing (MI) Therapy in Venice Beach is the right fit for you:
Visit the Contact Page
Schedule a consultation
Ask any questions about pricing, session frequency, or therapy focus
You can also explore related services like addiction therapy or concierge therapy as part of your healing journey.
Is MI Therapy Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Do I feel stuck in patterns I want to change?
Do I want to change but keep hesitating?
Do I struggle with inner conflict around goals?
If the answer is yes to any of these, meeting with a Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapist in Venice could help you take the next step. You won’t be pressured. You’ll be supported.
Steven Kilmann, LMFT, is here to help you explore change without fear or judgment—and to move forward with clarity and control.
