We continue with our 鈥渃onversations about change鈥� and focus this month on what we do after we go to a MI training or receive some exposure to MI. What we know from our own experience, and from research, is that continued practicing, coaching, and feedback is essential for us to integrate the information, knowledge, and skills we may have received from a MI training. We can think about this like learning a new musical instrument or a sport. If we receive only one lesson, we will likely only be able to improve our skills so much. Therefore, we need to find ways to consistently practice and use our skills, as well as, receive feedback from others.
Kate Watson, a Member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) shared a handout describing the different ways a clinician can continue building on their MI skills after attending a MI training or being exposed to MI. In this handout, she discussed ways individuals may be introduced to MI in addition to attending a MI training. Examples included reading books and articles about MI, and/or watching demonstrations of MI. Below is a list of the 鈥渘ext steps鈥� a clinician can do to continue their learning and practice:
Experiment
After the clinician has been exposed to MI or has been to a MI training, and has learned some new techniques, skills, and approaches, now is the time to try them out and see how they work. See how they feel for you as you introduce them and ask yourself the question, what am I noticing in me and what am I noticing with my client?
Join a Learning Community
Since MI is an evidence based practice, many settings use MI as one of their treatment modalities. Find others in your work setting or attempt to find others interested in MI and consider forming a practice group. Find time to come together to talk about your experiences with MI, and practice or role play some MI skills.
Record Yourself Practicing
I think this may be one of the most useful learning opportunities for a clinician, but it often can be one of the most uncomfortable or intimidating. Many clinicians prefer not to listen to themselves on a recording but it can be so helpful to learn about your style, patterns, areas of strength, and areas for growth. Start by listening to yourself on the recording, and as you feel more comfortable/confident, allow another MI practitioner to listen and offer feedback (or share recordings with each other to talk about).
Attend an Advanced Training
Trainings are a great way to start the process of learning and gaining the latest information on MI. After attending a training or being exposed to MI, begin integrating the information into your own style of MI. A place to look and find out about MI trainings is by visiting
Find a Coach/Supervisor
Lastly, there are likely to be many very skilled MI practitioners in your area, and perhaps, even in your work settings. The skilled MI practitioner may be able to provide a clinician with one-on-one or small group support to fine-tune skills and expand on the skills already used. This can be a great way to continue integrating what you are learning.
Again, I think we would all agree, MI is a practice and there is always so much more to learn! We will continue our blog series next month on 鈥渃onversations about change鈥� and will explore the basic and extremely important process of engagement with a client. I hope you all have a great month and have opportunities to use and practice Motivational Interviewing
For more information about Motivational Interviewing or related services, contact Eunice Akinyi Okumu, by phone (919) 843-2532, or by email, eunice_okumu@med.unc.edu