Our Foundation

MI as Our Core Approach, Not Just a Mention

Integrated From Day One
MI begins during your initial assessment and intake. Our clinicians use motivational techniques to understand where you are in your recovery journey, whether you’re uncertain, pressured by others, or ready to commit. This isn’t a one-time conversation; it’s an ongoing partnership.
Specialized Training
Our therapists receive extensive training in Motivational Interviewing techniques. They’re skilled in the nuanced art of drawing out your own motivations, resolving ambivalence, and strengthening commitment to change, all without judgment or pressure.
Dual Diagnosis Expertise
MI is particularly powerful for dual diagnosis treatment. When addiction intersects with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, or PTSD, the non-confrontational, empathetic approach of MI creates a safe space to address both conditions simultaneously.
Person-Centered Philosophy
We believe you are the expert on your own life. MI aligns perfectly with our treatment philosophy: you hold the keys to your recovery. Our role is to help you find those keys and give you the confidence to use them.

How We Work with Uncertainty & Ambivalence

Not everyone arrives at treatment ready for change. Many feel pushed by family, employers, or the legal system. Others are simply uncertain. That’s exactly where MI excels.

If You’re Feeling Forced Into Treatment

External pressure doesn’t create lasting change, internal motivation does. We acknowledge that you may not have chosen to be here, and we don’t pretend otherwise. Instead, we explore what matters to you: your values, your goals, your concerns. Through this process, many clients discover their own reasons for pursuing recovery, separate from external demands.

If You’re Unsure or Ambivalent

Ambivalence is normal. Part of you may want change while another part resists. MI helps you explore both sides without judgment. We use reflective listening and open-ended questions to help you weigh the costs and benefits of your current path versus a different one. This process helps resolve internal conflict and move toward clarity.

If You’re Ready but Scared

Even when you know you need to change, fear can be paralyzing. MI builds your confidence by highlighting past successes, identifying your strengths, and creating a roadmap that feels achievable. We celebrate small wins and adjust the pace to match your readiness.

MI Techniques We Use Daily

Open-Ended Questions

We ask questions that can’t be answered with yes or no, inviting you to explore your thoughts and feelings deeply.

Affirmations
We recognize and celebrate your strengths, efforts, and progress, building confidence through genuine acknowledgment.
Reflective Listening
We mirror back what you’ve said, helping you hear your own motivations and concerns more clearly.
Summarizing
We periodically recap our conversations to ensure understanding and highlight key insights you’ve shared.
Developing Discrepancy
We gently help you see the gap between your current situation and your values or goals, fostering motivation for change.
Rolling with Resistance
Instead of arguing or confronting resistance, we acknowledge it and use it as information to understand you better.

We ask questions that can’t be answered with yes or no, inviting you to explore your thoughts and feelings deeply.

We recognize and celebrate your strengths, efforts, and progress, building confidence through genuine acknowledgment.

We mirror back what you’ve said, helping you hear your own motivations and concerns more clearly.

We periodically recap our conversations to ensure understanding and highlight key insights you’ve shared.

We gently help you see the gap between your current situation and your values or goals, fostering motivation for change.

Instead of arguing or confronting resistance, we acknowledge it and use it as information to understand you better.

The Six Stages of Motivational Change

Recovery isn’t linear, it’s a process that unfolds in stages. Understanding where you are in this journey helps us tailor treatment to meet you exactly where you’re at right now.

Precontemplation

At this stage, you may not see substance use as a significant problem. You might be in treatment due to external pressure from family, work, or legal requirements. There’s little personal motivation to change.

Our approach: We don’t lecture. Instead, we create a judgment-free space to explore your experiences and help you connect the dots between substance use and areas of your life you do care about.

Contemplation

You recognize there’s a problem and are thinking about making changes, but you’re ambivalent. Part of you wants to change; another part holds back. You’re weighing the pros and cons.

Our approach: We help you explore both sides of your ambivalence without pushing. Through guided reflection, you’ll gain clarity on what matters most and begin to tip the scales toward change.

Preparation

You’ve decided to change and are getting ready to take action. You’re developing a plan and preparing yourself mentally and practically for the steps ahead.

Our approach: We work with you to create a realistic, personalized treatment plan. We identify potential obstacles, build your confidence, and ensure you have the support systems and skills needed for success.

Action

You’re actively engaged in changing your behavior. This is where the hard work happens, detox, therapy, skill-building, and developing new patterns. Change is visible and ongoing.

Our approach: We provide intensive support through individual therapy, group sessions, skill development, and medication management when needed. We celebrate every milestone and adjust strategies as needed.

Maintenance

You’ve made significant changes and have been maintaining your recovery for at least six months. The focus shifts to preventing relapse and solidifying new habits and coping mechanisms.

Our approach: Through aftercare planning, alumni support, and ongoing therapy, we help you navigate challenges, recognize triggers, and maintain the life you’ve built. Recovery becomes a sustainable lifestyle.

Termination / Growth

You’ve achieved lasting change and developed the resilience to handle life’s challenges without returning to old patterns. Many continue to grow and give back to the recovery community.
Our approach: While formal treatment may conclude, our door remains open. Many alumni stay connected through our alumni program, mentorship opportunities, and ongoing community support.

Important Note: Progress isn’t always linear. Setbacks and relapses can occur, and that’s okay. If you find yourself moving backward through the stages, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you need adjusted support. We meet you wherever you are, as many times as it takes.

How We Combine MI with Other Treatments

Motivational Interviewing is powerful, but it’s even more effective when integrated with complementary therapies and accountability structures. Here’s how we create a comprehensive treatment approach.
MI + Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
MI builds the motivation to change; CBT provides the tools and techniques to change thought patterns and behaviors. Together, they address both the “why” and the “how” of recovery.
MI + Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
For those with emotional regulation challenges or borderline personality disorder, MI enhances readiness to learn DBT skills like distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.
MI + Trauma Therapy (EMDR, CPT)
Trauma work requires readiness. MI helps clients explore their willingness to engage with painful memories, building the foundation for effective trauma processing when they’re ready.
MI + Medication Management
MI addresses ambivalence about taking medications for mental health or medication-assisted treatment (MAT). We help you weigh benefits and concerns to make informed decisions about your psychiatric care.
MI + Family Therapy
Family sessions use MI principles to help loved ones communicate without judgment, understand your journey, and support your recovery in constructive ways.
MI + Accountability Structures
Drug testing, attendance tracking, and progress monitoring aren’t punitive, they’re tools for transparency. MI helps you understand why these structures exist and how they serve your goals, not ours.

The MI Foundation Makes Everything Work

When you’re genuinely motivated, when you’ve discovered your own reasons for change, every other therapy becomes more effective. Skills stick. Insights land. Progress happens. That’s the power of starting with MI.

Legacy Healing Center | Luxury Rehab place picture
4.9
Based on 521 reviews
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Ryan Goronsky profile picture
Ryan Goronsky
18:07 28 Jan 26
This place is a 5 star facility to get and stay clean. Jack director of client services is awesome. Melissa, the receptionist is so helpful. The technicians Daryl, Gabe, Matt, Andrew, Terrance, Steven, D, and DJ are amazing. The community is super welcoming and supportive. The place is clean and attractive with great apparel. Tons of activity’s to fit all of your needs.
Chance Fenner profile picture
Chance Fenner
15:06 08 Jan 26
My experience at Legacy has been top notch. Words cannot explain how grateful I am to have found this program. All the staff members at Legacy from the time a client walks makes their recovery journey very comfortable. A big shout out to Melissa at the front desk for being the glue that keeps this place together, also the counselors, facilitators, and techs that provide an A+ experience. If you’re reluctant in finding help, rest assured you will be treated with the utmost respect. If you’re looking for a change in your lifestyle, Recovery at Legacy Healing Center has a program for you.
Janet Galliera profile picture
Janet Galliera
17:28 06 Jan 26
Legacy has provided a strong foundation and steps to follow when I leave to maintain sobriety. From Melissa at the front desk explaining day to day steps at Clinical to my therapist and case worker, everyone has been doing supportive and helpful in making this experience good. I never want to come back and everyone is helping me accomplish this goal. The progressive sessions are poignant and helpful. The instructors are passionate and diverse. So far, it’s been a great experience!
shane lambert profile picture
shane lambert
17:53 18 Dec 25
I’m currently at Legacy in a PHP program. So far the program is very positive. I have type 1 diabetes and use a continuous glucose monitor. The staff is very accommodating allowing me to have access to my phone at all times to monitor my glucose levels. I really enjoy the weekly, mindfulness classes, Yoga and Rekki. They keep you very busy which for me is a necessity to overcome cravings and keep a positive attitude. I would recommend Legacy for anyone seeking help with substance abuse!!
Matthew Vives profile picture
Matthew Vives
19:35 12 Dec 25
Great in depth clinical program with very helpful and insightful facilitators. The support staff(BHTs) go out of their way to make sure your needs are met and questions get answered. Personal therapy sessions are tailored to the individual and cover a wide range of therapy types. The facility offers additional programs such as yoga, mindfulness and raki which provides a nice relaxing break from group therapy sessions. The facility is very clean and comfortable and inviting.
Cory profile picture
Cory
18:13 12 Dec 25
Hello everyone, my name is Cory von Dreusche and I’m here receiving 90 days of recovery at the Clinical building.. This is my 3rd and hopefully last recovery stay needed as I’m focused on a life long recovery program moving forward..

I would like to say that my experience here has been life changing in the most critical of ways. The counselors have all been warm and inviting. I feel that they have all provided me with a top level of care that exceed the previous two treatment facilities attended. It’s not just the amazing facility here at Legacy Healing that makes it more than recommendable to others in need of recovery treatment. It’s the level of a personalized treatment plan and care that is given by the staff that sets them apart to me. Thanks Legacy!!
Carmen Bejarano profile picture
Carmen Bejarano
18:20 05 Dec 25
My experience at legacy has been very positive and it’s a great place. The staff is very supportive and encouraging. The people and relations I’ve made here will always be with me and this place is an amazing place to restart and move forward with your mental health and sobriety.
Garrett West profile picture
Garrett West
18:18 05 Dec 25
I’m in PHP and I feel this is an amazing facility and experience. Staff/facilitators are nice, very helpful and patient. I appreciate how I’m always being asked how I’m feeling/slept, etc. highly recommend!
Gerald Fisher profile picture
Gerald Fisher
15:04 04 Dec 25
It's an over all good place to help get yourself together and learn more about yourself and the counselors and therapists are very good at helping you
Mike Egeland profile picture
Mike Egeland
14:39 04 Dec 25
My experience has enlightened me and inspired my path of what they call treatment and recovery which I renamed Training staff is impeccable and caring. Upon arrival I was welcomed by Melissa with open arms and a huge smile that made me want to stay instead of run away like most. Most Techs are great even knowing they are 1/2 my age. The ones that stand out most as super stars are Jeff N, Terrance. Darrell and Matt. Therapist super stars are Jamie. Alexis and Matt. I am extremely happy with my choice and am sober and loving life. Peace Out
Cal Oly profile picture
Cal Oly
14:32 04 Dec 25
I have been integrated into Legacys treatment for A DAY and the staff, community, as well as the setting is nothing like any other experience; They provide lunch and other food for anytime, the staff call out our flunks, therapy is provided at the highest quality once or twice a week, an inhouse doctor prescribes and stays up to date on your medication journey. The sweetest and most beautiful ladies work the front desk, Shoutout Melissa!
Devon Wiggin profile picture
Devon Wiggin
14:14 04 Dec 25
Awesome place
Rhiannon Caple profile picture
Rhiannon Caple
14:11 04 Dec 25
I am very grateful for Legacy Healing Center. They helped me saved my life before a few years ago, and when I realized I needed help again, I’m so glad I was able to make it back. Melissa at the front desk welcomed me back and Alisa the driver was friendly and remembered me too! I was thankful to see some of the employees that were here before get promoted, like Jack H, Mark C, Andrew C, because they were awesome last time and continue to be awesome to this day. I was happy to see Jeff and Kelly again, too. I’m also really happy to have met some of the new (to me) techs, like DJ, Dee, Alexis, Sara, and Steph. I also want to give a shoutout to every single lady tech on third shift; there’s too many to name because it would make this review into an essay, but all of those ladies have helped me, from helping me move or being there to talk to me when I needed some advice either late night or early in the morning.

The alumni team is awesome, there’s fun events or field trips and meetings on Zoom for when you leave. Shoutout to Dennis for running such an awesome alumni team. Thank you to everyone who helped me save myself again!! I’m forever grateful.

I would absolutely recommend Legacy Healing Center to anyone who is struggling. They really do care.
IAM bonesjones profile picture
IAM bonesjones
19:31 25 Nov 25
Great experience, great staff, great people , & great community. I couldn’t be more happier finding myself here in this safe place. I appreciate everything they poured into me , truly a special place near and dear to my heart.
Tyler Mollman profile picture
Tyler Mollman
15:33 20 Nov 25
Level of care: PHP
Cleanliness: 10/10
Staff: 10/10
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My experience so far has been nothing short of amazing! I came from a program called Milestone Addiction Treatment center and let me tell you, this place is a breath of fresh air. All of clinical is super friendly, welcoming, as well as punctual and very professional. They make sure to accommodate all your needs such as toiletries, supplies, etc. Melissa, who works at the front desk, is the best. My very first day here she took me in and showed me the ropes and introduced me to some people to make me feel at home. All of the techs are super friendly and will make sure you are a part of the community. Also the facilitators are awesome and taught me more about recovery and addiction in a week than Milestone taught me in 4 months. I could not be more grateful to be a part of this program and a part of his wonderful community of beautiful human beings. Thank you Legacy!!!
Jacquelyn Pierce profile picture
Jacquelyn Pierce
20:06 19 Nov 25
I’m in php in Legacy. since I’ve been here I have received great care. All the staff are very knowledgeable and very helpful. I’m getting care I need from therapy to group. My time here has also great for my mental health. I highly recommend Legacy
Anthony Indorato profile picture
Anthony Indorato
16:17 19 Nov 25
Legacy is amazing! My experience here has been 5 star. Theres so many great people here from the staff to the clients. You literally become a family.

My favorite facilitator here is Mark. He doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He tells you how it is, and hits to the heart how addiction really affects you.

The groups are organized, effective and worth your time here. There’s no other treatment center that has literally - key word: been “transformative” for me. I’m walking away from here with so much knowledge and wisdom that I don’t think I would’ve got anywhere else.

If you’re contemplating coming to Legacy, do it! You won’t regret it.

This is Tony - signing off.

Legacy Cherry Hill - the best treatment center I’ve ever been to. 5 stars. A+. 100%.

Love Tony.

P.S - the first person you’ll ever meet at the front desk is no other than the beautiful Melissa M. You’ll love it here!

Go Legacy!
Andrew Lochbihler profile picture
Andrew Lochbihler
17:57 31 Oct 25
The clinical and program teams here are exceptionally professional and compassionate — truly second to none in my experience. The facility is clean, well-organized, and thorough in every aspect of care, ensuring that each client’s individual needs are fully met. From clinical staff to support personnel, everyone goes above and beyond to foster an environment of respect, structure, and genuine healing. I’m grateful I found this facility for my own recovery, and I’d recommend it to my closest family and friends.

Why Choose Legacy Healing for MI-Based Treatment?

We don’t just mention MI, it’s the foundation of how we work with every client, every day. Our clinical model is built around empowering you to find your own path to recovery.
Our expertise in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders means we understand the complexity of your experience and can address all aspects of your wellbeing.
Every member of our clinical team receives ongoing training in Motivational Interviewing. From therapists to case managers to medical staff, everyone speaks the language of empowerment.
From medical detox to residential treatment to outpatient programs and aftercare, we offer the complete spectrum of services. MI principles guide you through every level of care.
We combine rigorous evidence-based practices with deep human compassion. You’re not a case number—you’re a person with unique strengths, challenges, and possibilities.
We work with most major insurance providers to make treatment accessible. Our team handles the verification process so you can focus on what matters: your recovery.

Ready to Discover Your Motivation?

Whether you’re uncertain, ambivalent, or ready to commit, we meet you where you are. Your recovery journey begins with a conversation.