Motivational Interviewing (MI): Introduction and Application

Overview

This course prepares health care professionals to apply the evidence-based method of motivational interviewing (MI) to support changes in health behaviour among individuals who are ambivalent about making changes. The course is based on the principles in Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change and Grow, 4th edition (2023), by William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick.

Learning objectives

Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to do the following:
•    Describe the evidence-based method of MI, including its purpose and underlying principles.
•    Define ambivalence (including sustain talk and change talk), discord, and the role of importance and confidence in supporting change.
•    Demonstrate the spirit and core skills of MI in interactive exercises.
•    Elicit and strengthen change talk in simulated patient-consultation sessions.
•    Respond to discord and sustain talk in simulated patient-consultation sessions.
•    Discuss considerations for adapting MI across diverse settings and populations.

Learning approach and expectations

The course combines evidence-based teaching with active participation by learners. This fosters meaningful skill development and direct application in practice settings.

Learning approach:

• Flipped-learning model: Pre-course materials introduce foundational concepts, then live sessions focus on applied learning, informed by each participants’ practice settings.
• Through simulation-based learning with real-time coaching and feedback, learners can strengthen their skills.

Participation expectations:

•  Learners must attend all scheduled sessions and maintain active participation throughout the course.

Dates and pathways
Pre-course activities begin October 1, 2025.
Choose one of two pathways: immersive or extended.
Immersive pathway (15 hours/8 days/5 weeks): 
•    October 8-November 13, 2025
•    This is an accelerated learning format that delivers 15 hours of guided instruction over eight days within a five-week period. 
•    This pathway builds knowledge efficiently and supports the immediate integration of new skills into practice.
•    Course sessions begin at 10:00 a.m. ET.

Format
•    Live-virtual, faculty-led sessions
•    Accessible via laptop, tablet or phone
Cost
•    $695.00
 

Audience
The course is for professionals in these disciplines:
•    Allied health
•    Counselling and psychotherapy
•    Criminal/Juvenile justice
•    Nursing
•    Social work and social services

 Pre-register HERE

For additional details: Courses.help@camh.ca