Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapists in Amherst, NY
Browse Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapists in Amherst, New York. Compare credentials, specialties and therapeutic approach. Contact a therapist to learn more.
MI
Yuanfei Zhang
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
I became a therapist because I know what it means to be between worlds.
As someone who has navigated different cultures, languages, and identities, I understand the particular kind of loneliness that comes when your inner life doesn't quite have words yet — or when the words you have don't translate. That experience lives at the heart of everything I do.
I work primarily with women and individuals in the perinatal space — pregnancy, postpartum, fertility, and loss — as well as college students and immigrants standing at crossroads moments in their lives. These are the seasons when we most need someone who can hold complexity without rushing to fix it.
My training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) gives me a framework, but honestly, what guides me most is curiosity. I want to know what your life actually feels like from the inside — what you carry, what you've adapted to, what you've quietly set aside. I want to know how your culture shaped the way you love, grieve, and ask for help. And I want to sit with you in all of it, without judgment, without a predetermined destination.
Clients tell me our sessions feel like finally exhaling. My hope is that over time, that feeling stops being something you only find in a therapy room — and starts becoming something you carry with you.
4 Years Experience
Online in Amherst, NY (Online Only)
MI
Jazmin Melendez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
I believe every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and respected for who they are and the experiences that have shaped them. As someone who identifies as queer and is part of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the importance of having spaces where you can show up as your full self without judgment or the need to explain who you are. I value culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and identity-affirming care, and recognize that culture, family, identity, and lived experience are important parts of each person’s story. I approach therapy with curiosity, compassion, honesty, and humanity, while honoring both the challenges you’re carrying and the strengths that have helped you navigate them. I also believe there should be room for humor and genuine connection in therapy. My hope is that our work helps you feel more understood, connected to yourself, and empowered to move forward in a way that feels authentic to you.
I work with children, teens, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, relationships, identity, stress, neurodivergence, and life transitions. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure of what comes next. My goal is to create a space where you can be honest about what’s happening, feel understood, and work together toward greater clarity, confidence, and meaningful change.
3 Years Experience
Online in Amherst, NY (Online Only)
MI
Lenny Gallo
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW
Living with intrusive thoughts, constant mental noise, compulsive behaviors, or unresolved pain can make it feel like you’re trapped in patterns you can’t escape. If you’re ready to do meaningful work and want a therapist who is direct, genuine, and grounded, I’m here for that. My approach is straightforward but deeply compassionate—we’ll take an honest look at what’s keeping you stuck and develop practical tools that support lasting change.
I work extensively with OCD, anxiety, panic, trauma, men’s issues, body dysmorphia, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and the unique pressures faced by those in creative and entertainment fields.
13 Years Experience
Online in Amherst, NY (Online Only)
MI
A Better High,LLC
Drug and Alcohol Counselor, C.A.R.C.
I am proudly and openly in long-term recovery myself from substance use disorders. Over the years I’ve learned that there are just many many ways to do this, and a lot of my job and specialty is helping people find and implement the path that works best for them. I offer a lot of “handholding” in the beginning, which seems really helpful for the people I work with. I’ve been told by others that I have a friendly, natural, casual and “organic” presence, which helps people relax and even have fun, which is really important to me.
7 Years Experience
Online in Amherst, NY
MI
Taylor Lee
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP, Ed.M., M.A.
I create a collaborative and nonjudgmental space for clients who are ready to make meaningful changes and live more authentically. I specialize in working with people who have spent much of their lives people-pleasing or prioritizing others, and who are now ready to reconnect with their own needs, values, and voices. As an Asian American woman, I bring lived experience and cultural humility into my work, and am deeply committed to creating a safe, affirming space for people of color and members of marginalized communities.
2 Years Experience
Online in Amherst, NY (Online Only)
Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapists in Amherst, NY Statistics
Motivational Interviewing (MI) therapists in Amherst, NY average 11 years of experience and charge around $192 per session. 100% offer online sessions. The most commonly treated issues are Anxiety or Fears (87%), Depression (74%), and Trauma and PTSD (70%).
Average years in practice
11 Years Experience
Average cost per session
$192
Accept insurance
60%
Offer sliding scale
64%
Gender ID
| 63% |
Female |
|
| 27% |
Male |
|
| 7% |
Non-Binary |
|
| 3% |
Gender Fluid |
|
Session Type
| 60% |
Online Only |
|
| 40% |
In Person and Online |
|
Top Specialties
| 87% | Anxiety or Fears |
| 74% | Depression |
| 70% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 62% | Stress |
| 53% | Loss or Grief |
| 53% | Social Anxiety |
| 51% | Women's Issues |
Ages Served
| 98% | Adult |
| 85% | Young Adult |
| 51% | Teen |
| 49% | Senior |
| 26% | Children |
Client Focus
| 66% | Women |
| 62% | LGBTQ+ |
| 55% | Men |
| 34% | Black / African American |
| 34% | Hispanic / Latino |