Trauma-Informed
Motivational Interviewing

This 8-hour training is designed to equip participants with skills in Motivational Interviewing (MI) while embedding Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) principles. The training will be interactive, using role-playing, case studies, reflective discussions, and hands-on exercises to integrate MI techniques within a trauma-sensitive framework.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

Describe the principles and spirit of Motivational Interviewing.
Identify core elements of Trauma-Informed Care and its connection to MI.
Demonstrate effective MI techniques within a trauma-sensitive framework.
Apply MI strategies to support individuals in change processes without re-traumatization.
Recognize and respond to trauma-related responses within MI conversations.
Build trust and collaboration through trauma-sensitive language and reflective listening.
Recognize the impact of vicarious trauma and strategies for self-care.
Identify personal triggers related to vicarious trauma and develop strategies to manage them.

This training will provide participants with practical tools to engage in supportive, trauma-sensitive conversations while motivating positive change.

Who Should Attend?

Supervisors, managers, and team leaders
Social workers, therapists, and counselors
Healthcare professionals
Case managers and peer support specialists
Youth and family advocates

This training will provide participants with practical tools to engage in supportive, trauma-sensitive conversations while motivating positive change.

Client-Centered & Strengths-Based

Both approaches prioritize the client’s autonomy, resilience, and ability to make choices about their own path forward.
MI emphasizes evoking intrinsic motivation, while TIC focuses on empowerment and self-determination.

Creating Safety & Trust

MI’s spirit of partnership and acceptance aligns with TIC’s principles of safety and trustworthiness.
Both encourage non-judgmental and supportive interactions, reducing defensiveness and fear.

Empathy & Active Listening

MI uses reflective listening and open-ended questions to explore a client’s thoughts and feelings.
TIC emphasizes validating experiences and recognizing the impact of trauma in communication.

Avoiding Re-Traumatization

MI’s non-confrontational and client-led approach prevents coercion or pressure that could trigger past trauma.
TIC promotes awareness of trauma triggers and ensures interactions feel safe and empowering.

Encouraging Collaboration

MI supports shared decision-making, where the client is the expert in their own life.
TIC reinforces collaboration and peer support, recognizing that healing happens in relationships.

Promoting Sustainable Change

MI helps clients resolve ambivalence and strengthen self-efficacy.
TIC ensures long-term healing by addressing the root causes of behaviors rather than just symptoms.

Trauma-Informed Motivational Interviewing

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