Applying Motivational Interviewing (MI) Techniques to Improve Outcomes for System-Involved Youth

Gina Pascual

Training Description

This training introduces Motivational Interviewing (MI) as a collaborative, evidence-based practice that helps system-involved youth strengthen intrinsic motivation for positive change. Participants will learn how MI techniques—such as reflective listening, affirmations, and eliciting change talk—can reduce resistance and improve engagement among foster youth and justice-involved youth, who often face complex trauma and ambivalence. Through demonstrations and guided practice, the training emphasizes how MI supports system-involved youth in making safer, healthier, and more goal-aligned decisions. The focus remains on how MI directly improves outcomes for system-involved youth, including placement stability, adherence to case plans, and progress toward education or wellness goals.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

• Identify four core principles of Motivational Interviewing (partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation) and explain how each one supports system-involved youth.