Motivational Interviewing

This course is designed to provide Adult Protective Services professionals with the core skills required to effectively use Motivational Interviewing with clients in the field. Through a hybrid course consisting of didactic lecture, demonstration and skills practice, we will take a deep dive into the why, when and how of using this approach.

By the end of this training, learners will:

• Deepen their understanding of the relevance and benefits of Motivational Interviewing (MI) in the field. 
• Connect MI to the Stages of Change Model and how to utilize a client's level of motivation to move toward change. 
• Embody the "MI Spirit" (Partnership, Acceptance, Compassion & Evocation) and the four Guiding Principles of RULE (Resist the righting reflex, Understand the client's motivation, Listen with empathy and Empower the client). 
• Practice the core skills - OARS (Open Questions, Affirmations, Reflections and Summaries).
• Apply differential responding to Change Talk and Sustain Talk, utilizing the client's ambivalence and self-expressed reasons for change.