Mar 12

Motivational Interviewing Essentials for Professionals

Motivational Interviewing is an evidence-based, client-centered approach that builds motivation for change. This interactive training introduces MI’s core spirit—partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation—while teaching practical skills for goal-focused conversations. Participants learn OARS (Open questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, Summaries) to increase engagement, reduce resistance, and explore gaps between behaviors and values. Earn 1 CE for LCSW, LMFT, LMHC, and CMSW via Florida CEBroker. Approved by the Florida Certification Board for child welfare and mental health.

$49.00 - $59.00

Thursday, March 12, 2026

12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST

(11am-12pm CT, 10am-11am MT, 9am-10am PST)

Live virtually on Zoom

Cost: $49 until midnight, Thursday, March 4, then $59

FULL TRAINING DESCRIPTION:

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based, client-centered approach designed to strengthen motivation for change. This interactive training introduces professionals to the foundational principles and practical skills of MI, equipping participants with tools to foster meaningful, goal-oriented conversations across a variety of settings. Participants will explore the core spirit and principles of Motivational Interviewing, including partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation. The training provides a structured overview of OARS—Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, and Summaries—and examines how these core communication skills enhance engagement and reduce resistance. In addition, participants will learn the technique of developing discrepancy to help individuals explore the gap between their current behaviors and personal values or goals. Through guided instruction, attendees will demonstrate the use of OARS skills and begin integrating MI-consistent strategies into their professional practice. This training is ideal for healthcare providers, behavioral health professionals, educators, social service providers, leaders, and other professionals seeking to strengthen their conversational skills and support sustainable behavior change.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Define the core principles and spirit of Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Discuss the components of OARS
Identify the technique of developing discrepancies
Demonstrate the use of OARS skills in structured practice scenarios

This training is designed for professionals, wherever you may reside. Feel free to share with fellow colleagues, and professionals. Together we are better!

This training may help prepare you for competencies related to the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health Endorsement. (For those outside Florida, check your state's requirements.)

1 Continuing Education hour is included for Florida-Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, and Certified Master Social Workers through Florida CEBroker. Certificates will be provided for self-reporting.

The Florida Certificate Board recognizes this training in the areas of child welfare, and mental health.

Dr. Maria Hand

Certified Child Welfare Trainer

Dr. Maria Hand, a Doctor of Criminal Justice with a specialization in Education from Saint Leo University, brings over 13 years of child welfare experience and seven years as a trainer for child welfare and mental health professionals. She currently serves as Case Manager Supervisor with the Florida Center for Early Childhood, providing leadership and support to staff serving vulnerable children and families. A Certified Child Welfare Trainer, Maria delivers engaging, evidence-informed trainings that emphasize trauma-informed care, ethical practice, skill development, and practical strategies to support children, families, and professionals in real-world settings.