Introductory Workshop (1-2 days)

Introductory workshop introduces the basic skills and tools of using Motivational Interviewing to one’s area of practice. Participants will be able to learn and practice the four core skills used in Motivational Interviewing, observe demonstrations using MI and practice MI techniques in dyads and groups.

Concepts covered

• Gain understanding of the “spirit” and key principles and theoretical basis of Motivational Interviewing (MI) and apply to one’s own practice.
• Learn and practice MI skills and early strategies for use in practice.
• Introduction to Advanced MI skills and application to future learning
• Assess and understand how to integrate interpersonal style with primary skills for evoking intrinsic motivation in clients.
• Receive feedback in MI practice behaviors.
• Participants will engage and gain understanding in the ethical considerations of MI with clients.

MI Principles addressed

• Style and Spirit
• Reflective Listening
• OARS (open-ended questions, simple and complex reflections, affirmations and summaries)
• Pulling for Change Talk
• Asking Permission
• Listening for the backstory
• 4 Fundamental processes/tasks of MI (engaging, focusing, evoking, planning)
• Readiness Rulers of importance and confidence
• Developing discrepancy between behavior and values

Intermediate Training (1-2 days)

This workshop is designed for those who have had at least one previous day of MI training and have some proficiency in using MI. Concepts above will be covered in more detail with practice involved for increasing proficiency.

• Differentiate and practice simple and complex reflections.
• Strategies to explore and resolve ambivalence.
• Practice skills to elicit, recognize and reinforce Change Talk.
• Recognize and identify MI skills through role plays.
• Advance in MI skills with a focus on reducing client resistance to changing behavior.

Advanced Trainings and Train the Trainer Workshops (1-2 days)

This workshop is designed for those who have had at least two days of MI training, and more advanced proficiency in using MI. It is an opportunity for more intense practice of MI exercise and feedback.

Concepts Covered

• Develop a personal plan for practicing and incorporating the primary skills and strategies of MI into counseling practice using MITI 4.2.1 coding.
• Practice using advanced skills and demonstration of OARS with feedback.
• Coding of video and audio tapes for OARS,  and Globals (partnership, empathy, softening sustain talk and cultivating change talk).
• Observe demonstrations of MI techniques.
• Introduction of MITI 4.2.1 coding information.

Virtual Workshops

Virtual workshops are intended for those who want both information and practice in Motivational Interviewing and cannot attend a live workshop. Participants join the workshop via Zoom and will need a webcam for participation of exercises. For more information on virtual workshops see this link.

Coding and Coaching

Advancing your skills in Motivational Interviewing means you will want to submit a tape of a client you’ve worked with for coding. If you are interested in this service, email Susan for more details. A 20-minute coding can be submitted and coded with the MITI 4.2.1 coding standards for fidelity in MI. In addition, a coaching session associated with your tape can be arranged.

Additional Services

I am happy to provide supervision and individual training in Motivational Interviewing to professionals on an hourly basis. If you are interested in this service please contact me for further information.