2 Day:Introductory Experiential Motivational Interviewing Training
Motivational Interviewing (MI) Introductory Training Objectives:
After attending the training, participants will be able to:
- Describe the “spirit” and key principles of Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Define MI
- Define 4 processes of MI
- Demonstrate ability to use OARS
- Demonstrate ability to recognize change talk and stages of change
- Identify traps to avoid
- Develop a personal plan for practicing and incorporating the primary skills and strategies of MI into counseling practice
Trainer: Larisa Traga, LCSW, MAC, CCDS, MINT Member
Larisa Traga is a California-licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), master addiction counselor (MAC), with a co-occurring disorders specialization (CCDS), providing training, consultation, and therapy to the Santa Barbara county community. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from SUNY, Binghamton University and a Master’s in Social Work from University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Larisa is an EMDRIA (EMDR International Association) Approved EMDR Certified Consultant and a Member of International Network of Trainers for Motivational Interviewing (MINT). She has been an adjunct psychology and human services instructor at Allan Hancock College since 2015. Larisa has also worked countywide with the County of Santa Barbara Behavioral Wellness Department since 2009 with individuals with co-occurring disorders, PTSD, Transitional Age Youth and adults with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, drug court involved teens and adults and individuals experiencing crisis.
Larisa currently has a private practice specializing in culturally sensitive individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults using an eclectic approach, including EMDR, CBT, MI, and mindfulness techniques. She treats a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, physical/sexual abuse, PTSD, gambling, self-esteem issues, workplace harassment, and more. In addition, Larisa is a CalGETS provider and conducts training on Evidence Based Practices, such as Motivational Interviewing, NIATx process improvement, MATRIX model, and more currently consultations and technical assistance on use of EMDR and crisis debriefings using A-TIP.