Motivational Interviewing Fundamentals November 2026 Hobart

What is MI? Motivational interviewing is a collaborative client-centred, goal-oriented style of communication around change. More than a set of techniques, it pays careful attention to the language of change, and requires clinicians to work from a base of acceptance and compassion. How is MI any different to other person-centred styles? 2 words - Change talk. Careful engaged listening and giving back reflections and summaries of the person’s change talk, helps to identify and strengthen the person’s own motivation for change. Does it work? Motivational Interviewing has a strong evidence base for engaging and maintaining people in treatment. It evolved from the alcohol and other drug field and has been used across a variety of settings including public health, needle syringe programs, psychiatry, correctional services, dentistry, education and sports and elite coaching. How will it help? MI plays well with others. An MI lens over our existing skillset helps sharpen our focus, and makes what we have more useful, versatile, and effective. What will happen during this interactive 2 day workshop? • An overview of the updated motivational interviewing framework • Opportunity to practice core skills • Exploration of the MI processes • Practising ways to lessen sustain talk and increase change talk • Finding ways to respond to common situations such as ambivalence and discord. • Learn ways of continuing learning in MI Course fee includes catering - morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea