Motivational Interviewing for Peer Support Specialists
Course Description
This course provides Peer Support Specialists with a comprehensive understanding of Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques, adapted specifically for peer-based recovery support settings. While MI is often used in clinical environments, this course focuses on non-clinical applications, ensuring that Peer Support Specialists can effectively use MI principles to empower peers in their recovery journeys.
Through interactive lessons, scenario-based learning, and practical skill-building exercises, learners will develop MI techniques to support individuals navigating ambivalence and self-directed change.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
✔ Define Motivational Interviewing (MI) and explain its relevance in peer support.
✔ Identify and apply the four processes of MI: Engaging, Focusing, Evoking, and Planning.
✔ Demonstrate core MI communication skills using OARS (Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, Summaries).
✔ Recognize change talk vs. sustain talk and respond effectively.
✔ Facilitate MI-based conversations that support self-directed recovery.
✔ Maintain ethical and boundary-conscious MI practices in peer support settings.
Course Structure
This course is divided into eight lessons, each focusing on key MI concepts and their application in peer support. Each lesson includes interactive elements, practical exercises, and knowledge checks to ensure learning retention.
Lesson 1: Introduction to Motivational Interviewing
Lesson 2: The Four Processes of MI
Lesson 3: MI Communication Skills – OARS
Lesson 4: Understanding and Responding to Ambivalence
Lesson 5: Strengthening Motivation and Commitment to Change
Lesson 6: Applying MI in Peer Support Conversations
Lesson 7: MI in Action – Practice and Real-World Application
Lesson 8: Course Wrap-Up & Next Steps
Course Features
✔ Interactive Learning: Engaging videos, quizzes, and case studies.
✔ Scenario-Based Exercises: Real-world applications of MI in peer support.
✔ Knowledge Checks: Short quizzes to reinforce learning.
✔ Reflection Activities: Opportunities for self-assessment and skill application.
✔ Certificate of Completion: Earn a digital certificate after passing the final assessment.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is designed for:
✔ Peer Support Specialists working in recovery-focused settings.
✔ Individuals providing non-clinical support in behavioral health and addiction recovery.
✔ Anyone interested in using Motivational Interviewing to empower others in change conversations.
Final Steps
📌 Get Started: Click the first lesson to begin your MI learning journey!
📌 Support & Questions: If you need assistance, reach out to your course facilitator.
📌 Earn Your Certificate: Complete all lessons and the final assessment to receive your Motivational Interviewing Certificate!
🎯 Let’s begin!
Course Materials & Resources
Throughout this course, you’ll have access to practical tools and reference materials to support your learning and application of Motivational Interviewing (MI) in peer support settings. These resources will help reinforce key concepts, provide structured guidance, and serve as quick reference tools during real-world conversations.
Downloadable Course Resources
📌 MI Foundations Quick Reference Guide (Lesson 1)
A one-page summary of MI principles, the spirit of MI, and why it is effective in peer support. This guide provides a foundational understanding of MI techniques and their real-world application.
📌 The Four Processes MI Flowchart (Lesson 2)
A visual roadmap outlining the Four Processes of MI (Engaging, Focusing, Evoking, and Planning), with key questions and prompts to help structure MI conversations effectively.
📌 OARS Skills Practice Worksheet (Lesson 3)
An interactive exercise where you’ll write out Open-Ended Questions, Affirmations, Reflections, and Summaries (OARS) in response to real peer scenarios, strengthening your MI communication skills.
📌 Change Talk vs. Sustain Talk Cheat Sheet (Lesson 4)
A comparison chart with examples of change talk and sustain talk, along with effective MI-based facilitator responses to guide conversations toward motivation and action.
📌 Self-Efficacy Reflection Journal (Lesson 5)
A guided journaling template designed to help peers identify their strengths, past successes, and coping strategies—reinforcing their confidence and belief in their ability to change.
📌 Adapting MI for Different Peer Support Settings Guide (Lesson 6)
A scenario-based guide with strategies for using MI in one-on-one sessions, group support settings, and crisis situations, helping you apply MI flexibly based on the peer’s needs.
📌 MI Roleplay & Feedback Template (Lesson 7)
A structured roleplay exercise with peer support scenarios and feedback prompts to practice MI techniques in a safe environment and refine your approach based on constructive input.
📌 MI Personal Growth Plan Template (Lesson 8)
A goal-setting worksheet that helps you reflect on your MI strengths, set skill-building goals, track progress, and create a personalized development plan for continued MI practice.
How to Use These Resources
✔ Download and print them to reference during peer conversations.
✔ Use them during practice sessions to reinforce learning.
✔ Apply them in real-world peer support settings for guidance and structure.
✔ Review them as needed to refresh your MI skills and confidence.
📌 Next Step: Start your first lesson and download the MI Foundations Quick Reference Guide to begin your journey! 🚀