This course is an introduction to the principles, strategies, and the spirit of the Motivational Interviewing (MI) approach to help clients build commitment and reach a decision to change problematic behaviors. The theoretical basis of MI lies in the construct of “ambivalence” and the conflict between indulgence and restraint that is so prevalent when clients consider behavior change. The difficulty in changing problematic behaviors is an occurrence that extends well beyond “addictive behaviors.” The immobilizing effects of ambivalence can be seen in many practice spheres. In addition, the course will discuss MI’s application to practice with “mandated” and “resistant” clients.

Learning Objectives:

• Apply the principles and key strategies of Motivational Interviewing including: identifying the client’s stage of readiness for change and useful therapist tasks at those stages; enhancing client’s intrinsic desire for change;
• Recognize the impact of therapist interactional style on the treatment process;
• Identify the critical components of client motivation including recognizing and influencing the state of ambivalence in the change process;
• Modify practice skills to reduce client resistance to change and understand conditions that impact client motivation including recognizing and avoiding counseling traps.

This course will consist of critical discussion and practical application of the material.

Research: Select current research on MI can be found at US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health

Target Audience: social workers, mental health practitioners, creative arts therapists, marriage and facility therapists, psychologists,  addictions professionals, and other interested individuals