Foster Care Training

This intensive 2-day workshop will introduce supervisors to the theory, principles, and skills of MI and related motivation-enhancing behavior change approaches. Participants will be guided through a sequence of learning activities to explore and shape counseling practice behavior, and to initiate a process for developing proficiency in MI for supporting change in clients and supervisees*. Learning activities will include: real-life demonstrations, videotape examples, “real-plays”, small group exercises, and participant practice with feedback.

* MI has been identified as useful vehicle for supporting effective mentoring and supervision (MIA-STEP, 2006); Motivational Interviewing Assessment: Supervision Tools for Enhancing Proficiency (2006). A Product of the NIDA-SAMHSA Blending Initiative

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the “spirit” and key principles of Motivational Interviewing (MI)
2. Observe and debrief demonstrations and videotape examples of MI
3. Demonstrate and practice the interpersonal style and primary skills for evoking intrinsic motivation for positive behavior change in brief clinical encounters
4. Receive individual feedback in MI practice behavior
5. Develop a personal plan for practicing and incorporating the primary skills and strategies of MI into clinical practice behavior