What is Motivational Interviewing?
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a style of counseling and relating to others designed to enhance intrinsic motivation to change behavior by developing discrepancies and exploring and resolving ambivalence within the client. Based on Miller and Rollnick’s (2013) classic text Motivational Interviewing: Preparing people to change (2013), MI is a “collaborative, goal-oriented style of communication with particular attention to language of change. It is designed to strengthen personal motivation for and commitment to a specific goal by eliciting and exploring the person’s own reasons for change within an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion” (p. 29).
Born out of the addictions field, the list applications for MI continues to grow. MI has amassed an impressive array of clinical trial research support for such diverse change topics as medication management, addictions, diabetes management, psychological problems such as depression and anxiety, nutrition and exercise, adolescent issues, and general lifestyle changes.

Are you a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers?
Yes! I am a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT). MINT is an organization that was formed in the early to mid-1990s that is dedicated to preparing high quality trainers in teaching others the spirit, process, and skills in MI. In general, most individuals and groups look for MINT trainers to conduct basic and advanced MI training.

Can one become certified in MI?
Currently, there is no officially recognized certification in MI. Unfortunately, certain trainers may advertise that trainees, upon completion, can become “certified” in MI. Technically, however, it is important to know that such a certification is ONLY endorsed through the specific trainer and NOT an officially endorsed certification by MINT or by the creators of MI. After training with tflewisconsulting, all members will receive a certification of completion with the total number of training hours completed. This can be very useful to show agencies and/or other employers who require formalized training in MI from a MINT trainer.

How much does training cost?
The cost of individual training and 3 day workshop trainings are listed under the “Services” tab. Pricing for a 3 day workshop is $595 per person. For 2 day workshops, the price would be $ 396 per person. One day workshops are $198 per person. Advertising, dates, times, and additional information will go out once workshops are scheduled.

What is the difference between a 1 day, 2 day, and 3 day workshop?
MI is one of those unique approaches where we have some empirical data on the best way to learn MI. Aside from knowing the content, consistent supervised practice has been shown to be a very effective way to enhance MI skills. All workshops through tflewisconsulting offer a balance of didactic instruction, experiential activities, and skill practice. In a 1 day introduction to MI workshop, participants can expect to learn the basics of MI and practice basic skills. In a 2 day intro workshop, additional content is provided with more in-depth practice of skills. In a 3 day intro workshop, in addition to content, participants will receive significant supervised practice in applying MI in their daily practice. For advanced MI workshops, the balance shifts to more supervised practice of basic and advanced skills. In my experience, most participants benefit greatly from 2 to 3 day workshops. However, this is not to discount the 1 day option, as many participants can benefit from an overview of MI with some practice. It really depends on what your goals are in learning MI.

How is individual training in MI different from the workshops?

In some cases, individuals prefer more one on one training than a workshop. Individual trainings are typically 12 hours for both introduction and advanced MI. The content and skills learned in 2 or 3 day workshops is the same as in individual training. However, with individual training, there is more flexibility with scheduling. For example, a 12 hour individual training for introductory MI might be scheduled at 3 hour increments every Friday across 4 weeks. If this schedule does not fit, then a satisfactory alternative schedule can be explored. Fees for individual workshops include $60.00 per hour. For a 12 hour workshop, the total fee is $720. Half of this amount is due at the start of training, with the balance due upon completion.

I encourage customers interested in individual training to consider asking one or two other colleagues or peers to join them (maximum 3). Although not essential, practicing MI with a small peer group can be useful when applying and learning the skills.

Do I need to buy any resources or books for the training?

Although not required, I do recommend that participants purchase and read Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change (3rd edition) by Miller and Rollnick. This resource will provide a good foundation for the workshop.