We recently partnered with the California Baptist University (CBU) Department of Social Work to conduct an Introduction to Motivational Interviewing (MI) training for social work faculty and students at the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF). This training initiative is part of our broader partnership with USPF, aimed at fulfilling their goal of providing MI training to all their social work faculty, along with all Bachelors and Masters of Science in Social Work (BSW and MSSW) students at USPF.
MI is an evidence-based, person-centered counseling approach that aims to strengthen a person’s motivation for and commitment to change. MI is a trauma-informed communication style proven to promote positive behavior among clients, increase their engagement and retention in services, and enhance their overall satisfaction with services. The recent MI training was facilitated by Dr. Jerri Middleton, an Assistant Professor from California Baptist University’s Department of Social Work. This collaborative training between Eleison and CBU emphasized culturally-adapted MI techniques appropriate for the trainees’ practice contexts. It covered the core definitions and concepts of MI, such as ambivalence, change talk, sustain talk, and the skills, and spirit of MI. Participants engaged in practice exercises and role-plays, enhancing their ability to utilize MI techniques effectively.
After completing the MI training, a participant shared their experience:
“This is hands down the best seminar I have attended, where technicalities are dispensed with and understanding is the goal. The interactive quizzes, sharing between participants, and the simple yet very informational content made it accessible even to ordinary individuals. I will be using the training in my intake interview for probation applicants during my current internship.”
Another participant shared:
“I am dealing with youth who have behavioral problems. The skills and techniques I learned are very helpful to me. It is very important to give the client an atmosphere or a space where they feel accepted and experience companionship.”
At Eleison, we offer introductory-level training in MI for individuals involved in providing social services. We are open to conducting MI training for service providers, offering options for in-person, virtual, or hybrid training for agencies globally, depending on their needs and priorities. Organizations can contract with us for a 1-day, 1.5-day, or 2-day training session. For flexibility, virtual training can be delivered via mini-sessions spread across multiple days. If your organization is interested in receiving MI training, please contact us at info@eleisonfoundation.org or message us here.
