Motivational Interviewing and Other Regional Training Available to Juvenile Probation Departments

AUSTIN, Texas – TJJD’s Juvenile Justice Training Academy offers Motivational Interviewing (MI) as a course for departments or regions to assist in the development of skills necessary to facilitate positive change in the thoughts and behavior of individuals. MI is a client centered, evidence based program that allows effective prosocial communication between people. This training provides a thorough introduction on how to use the program techniques to enhance communications between staff and youth and among staff. The 16-24 hour course begins with an overview of basic communication skills and principles of effective interventions. It is followed by stages of change models and the fundamental principles of MI. This interactive course was developed so participants engage in active listening with others, identify target areas for further exploration, and have the tools needed to respond in nonconfrontational ways.

If staff have already been trained in MI, TJJD also offers an 8 hour MI Booster training. This course serves as a review, update, and practice session to ensure sustainability of the skills developed in the initial training. In addition, participants will also receive training in advanced MI skills associated with evidence-based practices.

If you are interested in receiving additional information, or to schedule a training for your department or region, please contact Andy Fazzio at 512.490.7696 or Andy.Fazzio@tjjd.texas.gov.

TJJD’s Juvenile Justice Training Academy also offers a plethora of regional training opportunities to assist departments in providing employees with a unique training experience to enhance their professional development while attending training with peers from other probation departments. Each region has its own unique needs, and this training would allow regional representatives the opportunity to select from a menu of available training. The primary mission continues to be to advance organizational performance and individual development. Training options include over 30 topics to choose from. If you are interested in scheduling a regional training in your area, please complete the Regional Professional Development Training Request Form online, or you may contact John Kinsey at 512.490.7697 or John.Kinsey@tjjd.texas.gov.