Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a person-centered, guiding method of communication to elicit and strengthen motivation for change. These two days cover the foundations of MI: the spirit, its four core processes, and the skills that carry them. With Valerie Alt.
The training will span two days in person in Berkeley, CA. It is open to therapists, social workers, health providers, students, and anyone else whose work revolves around conversations about change.
Trainings are interactive and include:
- Role play practice using participants’ actual cases
- Demonstrations with real-time coaching
- Small group exercises maximizing practice time
- Video analysis of MI conversations
By the end of the training, participants will be able to:
1.- Demonstrate understanding of the spirit and principles of Motivational Interviewing
2.- Recognize and elicit change talk from clients
3.- Describe and apply the four core processes of Motivational Interviewing and use of OARS (Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries)
FAQs.
Do I need prior MI training? No. The training is open to the public and starts from the foundations, so you’re welcome whether MI is new to you or you’re looking to sharpen skills you already use.
Is continuing-education (CE) credit offered? Not at this time.
How do I register and pay? Use the Register button above — checkout ($425 per person) is handled by Stripe, and I’ll follow up with everything you need before the training.
What are the dates and hours? The training runs January 28–29, 2027, 9:30 am–4:00 pm both days, in person in Berkeley. Coffee, tea, and pastries are provided.
What’s your cancellation and refund policy? Full refund if you cancel 14 or more days before the training (by January 14, 2027), minus a $50 administration fee. 50% refund if you cancel 7–13 days before. Within 7 days it’s non-refundable — but you’re always welcome to send someone in your place or apply your payment to a future training. If I cancel or reschedule, you’ll receive a full refund.
About your Facilitator Valerie Alt
Valerie is a MINT-certified Motivational Interviewing trainer and a practicing licensed clinical social worker with over two decades of clinical experience. She trains and consults for clinics, hospitals, county programs, and health organizations across the Bay Area.
As a tenant and proud member of the Root and Bloom community, I’m delighted to offer this MI training in a space that feels like home. Being part of RBI means working alongside people who share a deep commitment to healing, growth, and meeting others with care. Since moving my practice here, I’ve felt welcomed into a community that values curiosity, compassion, and real connection. Hosting this MI training here feels like a natural extension of that spirit. MI is all about honoring people’s own wisdom and capacity for change, and I can’t think of a better place to share it.
Location: 2307 Sixth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
About Root & Bloom Institute:
Root & Bloom Institute (RBI) is a center for somatic practices, psychotherapy, and expanded states of consciousness in Berkeley. Our spaces support healing, learning, and community through thoughtfully curated trainings, workshops, and gatherings. Check our Transportation Guidelines and How To Arrive here.
