Price: $180 per person

Training Dates: March 23, 30 & April 6, 2026  Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am PST

Held Via Zoom

Course Description: 

In this course, participants will build a deep and foundational knowledge of core Motivational Interviewing (MI) concepts, such as OARS, the seven kinds of change talk (and how each relates to the stage of change), the tasks of MI, and building client trust. Through interactive activities, participants will be introduced to the principles of MI, including its spirit of partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation. The course also covers MI communication skills that enhance client engagement, particularly in communities where barriers to care and historical trauma may impact clients seeking the care they need and deserve. Attendees will participate in several practice activities, demonstrations, and guided reflection to practically apply the skills

By the conclusion of this workshop, participants will:

• Explain the core concepts of Motivational Interviewing, including the spirit of MI and identifying change talk.
• Demonstrate the use of MI communication skills (open-ended questions, affirmations, reflective listening, and summarizing – OARS).
• Identify opportunities to apply MI principles to support trust-building and client engagement, particularly when working with underserved and unserved populations

About the Trainer: 

Matthew T Rensi, Ph. D., LPCC. is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who also holds a Ph. D. in counselor education and supervision. He has extensive experience providing therapy to people struggling with psychosis, homelessness, various mental health issues and the legal system. In addition to this, he provides trainings throughout Santa Clara County on various aspects of mental health treatment including assessment, individual therapy, and safety/crisis situations. Matt has also conducted research on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders using linguistic analysis.

CE’s: This course is approved for 6 continuing education hours for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs and/or LEPs as required by the California B.B.S. under CEPA Provider #129412, and for RADT, CADC, and LAADC by CCAPP-EI CADAAC Provider # 7213401223.

Community Solutions is approved by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists to sponsor continuing education for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs and/or LEPs. Community Solutions maintains responsibility for this program/course and its content.

Cancelation Policy: Cancellations are requested at least 48 hours prior to the training day. Kindly email Trainings@communitysolutions.org  to un-enroll from the training if you unable to attend after registration in order to receive a refund.

Questions? Please contact our Training Division:
Training@communitysolutions.org or 408-846-4791

If you need special accommodations to ensure a comfortable learning experience please contact our Training Division.

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