Motivational Interviewing

This training introduces Motivational Interviewing (MI)—a person-centered, guiding approach designed to strengthen an individual's own motivation and commitment to change. Rooted in empathy, collaboration, and respect for autonomy, MI is especially powerful when working with system-involved youth, who often face complex barriers, mistrust of adults, and limited feelings of control over their lives. 

Trainees will gain knowledge and ability to implement a client-centered discussion collaboratively with a child or youth that leads them toward their own motivations for positive change by exercising OARS: Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, and Summarizing; stages of change: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action and maintenance. For system-involved youth—many of whom have experienced trauma, displacement, or punitive interactions—MI creates space for authentic connection, voice, and self-determination. By shifting from “telling” to “partnering,” adults can help youth feel heard, respected, and capable of making meaningful change in their own lives.