Motivational Interviewing

Dana Sturtevant also offers trainings in Motivational Interviewing.  Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a state-of-the-art, evidence-based clinical counseling method designed for evoking intrinsic motivation for positive health behavior change.  Originally developed in the drug and alcohol field, MI is now being widely applied in a variety of settings including health care and criminal justice.

Trainings are for those who want to enhance their skills in communication and behavior change counseling.  Trainings will:

• Introduce the theory, principles and skills of MI
• Focus on the use of MI in health care settings
• Explore and shape counseling practice behavior
• Begin a process for developing proficiency in MI
• Demonstrate the interpersonal style and primary skills for evoking intrinsic motivation

Trainings are always tailored to fit the scope of work and needs for the group.  They are highly participative in style and include discussions, video demonstration and practice sessions.

Training formats:    

• Two full days are needed for participants to receive a comprehensive training
• Four to eight hour trainings give participants a good understanding of the spirit of MI and time to practice some key skills
• Two hour lecture introduces participants to the spirit and skills of MI
• On going supervision and coaching has been shown to be the best method for skill development after initial training.  Practitioners are observed and provided with feedback to continue building skills.  This can be done by phone or in person

Trainer Information:

Dana Sturtevant, MS, RD is a registered dietitian who uses this counseling method to help her patients make lifestyle changes to improve health and lose weight.  She has been training health care providers in Motivational Interviewing for five years.  Dana has facilitated trainings for a variety of organizations, including the State of Oregon, National Kidney Foundation, Legacy Good Samaritan Obesity Institute, Columbia River Eating Disorder Network Conference for Professionals, Oregon WIC Program, Oregon Asthma Network, Willamette Dental, and Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research.  Her trainings introduce participants to the theory, principles and spirit of MI, and focus on the use of MI in health care settings.  Participants are guided through a sequence of learning activities to explore and shape counseling behavior, and to begin a process for developing proficiency in MI.

For more information about these trainings, please contact Dana at 503.288.4104 or email dana@benourished.org.