Motivational Interviewing Wisconsin is building the next level of Putting Families First with Motivational Interviewing (MI), with a phased implementation beginning for the child welfare workforce in early 2027. What is MI? MI is an evidence- and strengths-based communication method that can be used to engage and encourage an individual’s internal motivation to change. Child welfare professionals work with individuals who, often, are confronted with events or circumstances that require them to participate in services and make behavioral changes that they may not immediately want to address or change. MI can help child welfare professionals enhance their existing skills to build stronger, more trusting relationships with caregivers, youth and children. It is uniquely suited to supporting families involved in the child welfare system and the child welfare workforce, and it supports the shared vision of safe families and communities. Flexible MI is a method of communication that supports the work that child welfare professionals are already doing. It adds tools to child welfare professionals’ toolboxes as they problem-solve with families the best way to support change. This kind of flexibility is crucial in child welfare, as every family, youth and child has different needs and strengths. Builds Trust The skills developed through MI position child welfare professionals alongside the caregiver, youth or child – who may be scared, defensive or skeptical – and they work together towards change while still focusing on the identified safety concern. Safety at the Center By keeping conversations connected to safety and change, MI doesn’t make child welfare professionals choose between building a relationship and keeping a child or youth safe; it shows how to do both at the same time. Used with intention, a hard conversation becomes a real opportunity to build lasting safety. MI in Wisconsin Three to four local child welfare agencies – totaling 100-120 child welfare professionals – will be selected to participate in the initial implementation phase of MI, which begins in early 2027. Agencies interested in helping shape MI practice in Wisconsin are encouraged to apply to participate in this initial phase. Applications are due by November 30, 2026, and sites will be selected in January 2027. Additional information about the application and implementation timeline can be found in the “MI Phase 1 Application Process” section below. Questions? Virtual listening sessions will be held on November 3 and November 16. Agency staff are encouraged to attend and ask any questions they may have about MI or the application. Here are the details: Listening Session 1 Date: November 3 Time: 11 a.m.—12 p.m. Link: https://dcfwi.zoom.us/j/83324739782?pwd=9GD5uO5O30PmhY8Xo78U3Hv2fM3JvD.1 Listening Session 2 Date: November 16 Time: 3—4 p.m. Link: https://dcfwi.zoom.us/j/85192176674?pwd=ScNGYVJHsCNHFfkFVdhcUe1B9Jw2eY.1 Additional questions can always be sent to the MI team. MI Phase 1 Application Process Local child welfare agencies can apply to participate in the initial implementation phase of MI. Applications are due November 30, 2026. Motivational Interviewing Information and Application Packet — Supplemental material designed to support local child welfare leadership in making an informed decision about applying to participate in the initial phase of MI implementation. Outlines expectations and timelines, provides an overview of MI and describes the key components of the MI initial implementation. Motivational Interviewing Application and Readiness Assessment — Application to participate. Local agencies must submit electronically by November 30. FAQs What are the time commitments for MI training and fidelity? The predicted time commitment for initial training and ongoing support for local agency child welfare professionals, supervisors and staff is as follows: Child welfare professional: 11 hours of training and 15 hours in coaching and peer learning activities. Supervisor: 11 hours of training and 15 hours in an Applied Learning Community (ALC)—style learning community. Leadership team: Local implementation team: Monthly. Statewide implementation team: ~2 hours per month. Ongoing support, as needed. Additional information can be found in the Motivational Interviewing Information and Application Packet. How much will MI training and fidelity cost? The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families is responsible for costs related to training and fidelity. There are no costs to agencies for participating other than the time commitment for staff participation.
