Center for Motivation and Change

Center for Motivation and Change Changing the conversation about substance use from stigma ➜ growth, deficits ➜ strengths, shame Then we provide the structure and tools to pursue that path.
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http://motivationandchange.com

The Center for Motivation and Change (CMC) is a unique, private group practice of dedicated clinicians and researchers in New York City specializing in the treatment of substance use and compulsive behaviors. We are driven by an optimism about people's capacity to change and a commitment to the science of change. The cornerstone of our treatment approach is motivational, helping each client find a path toward change they can truly embrace. Through the use of respectful, flexible, evidence-based approaches, we address issues ranging from problematic use to dependence and work to help each individual clear the often difficult obstacles to effective, life-enhancing, and long-lasting change.

Alcohol and cannabis use are climbing again among South Berkshire, MA, teens, according to a new survey.Over the past 2 ...
09/26/2025

Alcohol and cannabis use are climbing again among South Berkshire, MA, teens, according to a new survey.

Over the past 2 years, rates of drinking and cannabis use have risen, while va**ng, cigarette use, and even depressive symptoms are on the decline.

The findings remind us that youth culture is never defined by one trend; it’s a shifting landscape of risks and resilience. The challenge now is for parents and communities to meet that landscape with honest, meaningful, and compassionate conversations about substance use at home.

👉 Read more about what the survey uncovered.

theberkshireedge.com/prevention-needs-assessment-survey-reveals-alcohol-and-cannabis-use-on-the-rise-among-south-berkshire-county-high-school-students/

09/25/2025

We’re often reminded to be kind to others—and that matters deeply. But how often do we pause to show the same kindness to ourselves?

Behavioral self-compassion is about turning that question inward, asking “What do I need right now?” and then meeting that need, we’re not just nurturing ourselves. We’re strengthening our ability to show up with genuine care for others.

At the heart of it all: the most important kindness you can give is to yourself. 💙

🎙️ This clip is from the Beyond Addiction podcast, hosted by Josh King. Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts. |

In a world that constantly pushes us to stay busy, it can feel uncomfortable to slow down. But that's where the magic ha...
09/22/2025

In a world that constantly pushes us to stay busy, it can feel uncomfortable to slow down.

But that's where the magic happens. Creating space for stillness gives you a chance to listen inward and notice what you feel and need. It's an invitation to connect with what matters most, yourself.

Moments of quiet reflection can become anchors in times of change. They can spark clarity, nurture self-compassion, and remind us that purpose often grows in the spaces we allow ourselves to pause.

AI is beginning to step into the role of “health coach,” offering prompts and reminders meant to guide healthier choices...
09/20/2025

AI is beginning to step into the role of “health coach,” offering prompts and reminders meant to guide healthier choices. 🧠

But new research from Flinders University highlights a limitation: many users experience these tools as overbearing or rigid.

The takeaway?
Technology can deliver information, but it often struggles to match the empathy, timing, and nuance needed to truly support change.

This raises an important question for the future of care: Can AI evolve to motivate without pressuring? To collaborate rather than command?

news.flinders.edu.au/blog/2025/08/19/can-ai-coach-us-to-a-healthier-future-for-now-its-a-little-too-pushy/

Substance use doesn’t happen in a vacuum; it’s influenced by culture, stigma, and social systems. This collection explor...
09/16/2025

Substance use doesn’t happen in a vacuum; it’s influenced by culture, stigma, and social systems.

This collection explores those broader forces, while also featuring crowdsourced books that give voice to personal experiences of making change. These stories remind us that growth isn’t individual, it’s connected. 🌍

Grateful to Holly Whitaker for pulling together this thoughtful list.

Change isn’t one-size-fits-all. This list highlights books that speak to neurodivergence and the different ways people l...
09/15/2025

Change isn’t one-size-fits-all. This list highlights books that speak to neurodivergence and the different ways people learn, process, and grow. Alongside them, you’ll also find titles that bring joy, hope, and gratitude into the process—and more crowdsourced books that reflect our community’s collective wisdom. 💡

Thanks to Holly Whitaker for curating and sharing these resources.

Come back tomorrow for part 3 and more books you can't miss out on.

If you’re starting to look at your substance use or supporting someone you love who struggles with theirs, books can be ...
09/15/2025

If you’re starting to look at your substance use or supporting someone you love who struggles with theirs, books can be a great resource to help make sense of things. From neuroscience to lived experience, they offer clarity, grounding, and hope.

This list comes from Holly Whitaker, who has been sharing and expanding resources like these since 2016.

Come back for part 2 tomorrow with even more books you'll love.

09/12/2025

Pride in your progress is about honoring every step you’ve taken.

You must celebrate and honor your growth — you’ve earned it.

Calling all professionals in behavioral health and substance use.The ITC Intensive is designed to strengthen your skills...
09/11/2025

Calling all professionals in behavioral health and substance use.

The ITC Intensive is designed to strengthen your skills in using the Invitation to Change (ITC) approach. This compassionate, evidence-based framework supports families and individuals navigating substance use and behavioral struggles.

This immersive training will:
✅ Deepen your understanding of motivational strategies
✅ Equip you with practical tools to better support families and clients
✅ Connect you with like-minded professionals dedicated to change

Reserve your spot today and take the next step in building a more compassionate world.

👉 Sign up now cmcffc.arlo.co/w/events/6-itc-intensive/60

Sometimes a setback, or return to use, can feel overwhelming! For many people, it feels like you’ve lost your progress o...
09/07/2025

Sometimes a setback, or return to use, can feel overwhelming!

For many people, it feels like you’ve lost your progress or let yourself and others down. If you’ve been there, know this: you are not alone, and this moment doesn't define you.

What you’re experiencing is actually a crucial part of how change unfolds. Learning takes time, practice, and compassion for yourself along the way.

Every stumble offers insight. Every step forward matters. And even in the hardest moments, you’re still on your path toward growth. 🌱

💙 Remember: setbacks don’t erase growth — they’re part of it.

The Tree of Addiction Conference 2025 is a day dedicated to healing, learning, and transformation. Bringing together cli...
08/29/2025

The Tree of Addiction Conference 2025 is a day dedicated to healing, learning, and transformation.

Bringing together clinicians, educators, law enforcement, and community advocates, the conference creates a space where science meets compassion and community drives change.

We’re honored that CMC's Co-Founder, Carrie Wilkens, will deliver this year’s keynote address: “The Power of Compassionate Communication: Recognizing the Family’s Role in Driving Change.” Her talk will explore how families can be a powerful force in the recovery process and why compassion is essential in creating lasting change. 💙

📅 November 13, 2025 | Wood-Ridge, NJ
🔗 Learn more and register: tcadr.org/events/toa/

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519 8th Avenue
New York, NY
10018

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+18667215396

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