• Have you ever tried to assist someone towards helpful or constructive change, only to come away thinking that they “aren’t ready”, don’t think there is a problem, or just end up arguing with you and carry on with the same destructive or unhelpful behaviour?
• Motivational Interviewing is more than just a type of therapy or something that only counselling professionals use. It is a style and approach that once integrated, is extremely useful and effective when working with people who may not yet be fully aware of their problematic behaviour or who may still be ambivalent towards change.
• Did you know that when someone is arguing with you against change, it may not be because they don’t want to change, but what they need is for you to change your approach?
• Motivational Interviewing can be used in a wide range of everyday situations to produce positive outcomes.

Abacus has developed a range of brief programmes, for those who have no prior knowledge and want a brief introduction, right through to those who have knowledge and experience, and want more in-depth, advanced training. Each training programme is targeted to the level of the participants, working in an interactive way with powerpoint information, and including opportunities to practice and integrate skills. More advanced programmes include trainers’ modelling and role-plays, and provide feedback and coaching to participants, to guide more advanced skills development.

These programmes will assist staff members to ascertain levels of motivation and readiness for change, and equip them with the skills to work effectively with people to achieve desired outcomes for progress toward their goals. They will also find that these skills have wide application for any purpose that involves improving motivation and encouraging positive change.