I am curious about what initiates and sustains motivation and change. This interest began in work with angry adolescents and progressed through work in prison, VA and state hospitals, and outpatient settings. My research focus has included addictive behaviors and its sequelae, HIV/AIDS and risk reduction, IPV, brief interventions and training methods. My clinical work extends across a range of treatment populations from those with addictive behaviors to sexual offenders to the chronically mentally ill. Presently, my research evaluates methods for training practitioners and implementation of evidence-based practices.
A member of the first Training for MI Trainer’s in 1993, I have provided regular training in MI since. A former Editor of the newsletter for MI trainers, I also authored Building Motivational Interviewing Skills: A Practitioner Workbook, as well as journal articles and book chapters.
I serve as President of Prevention Research Institute (Lexington, KY), a private nonprofit that develops and trains people in prevention and treatment curriculum for alcohol and drug use issues. The why of PRI's existence is "Growth Happens Here". We work to bring that mission to life at all levels of our organization, as well as for our system partners, counselors and instructors and the end-users of our products. Motivatioanl Interviewing is embedded in all that we do.
When not working, I parent, do tasks around the home, wish I could still play basketball, and read good novels, ten minutes at a time. I have two daughters, and a son that keep me busy and without spending money. My lovely wife Stephanie Ballasiotes is a full-time MI trainer, the principle in 2 Steps Forward Training and puts up with me, which probably makes her a part-time saint.
I offer MI training through Prevention Research Institute (www.primeforlife.org). We work with agencies, companies, nonprofits and government agencies. We believe that goodness of fit is essential in a trainer and you have many great options through the MINT.
