**Fifth session topic:** *Motivational Interviewing (MI) & Working with Tribal Clients in Precontemplation* A 40-minute, practice-focused session designed for probation, reentry, and behavioral-health professionals working with tribal clients who are not yet considering change. The training explores how MI aligns naturally with Indigenous values such as respect, relational accountability, autonomy, and storytelling. Participants will learn how precontemplation presents uniquely in tribal communities—often shaped by historical trauma, system distrust, cultural expectations, and survival-based coping strategies. Through culturally grounded MI strategies, examples, and case scenarios, participants will strengthen their ability to build rapport, honor sovereignty, evoke strengths, and support tribal clients in moving toward readiness for change. **Session Schedule:** December 9 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Central *(Registration deadline: December 8)* **SAVE THE DATE for these future sessions** *(Sessions will be held on the second Tuesday of the month, from 1:00pm - 2:00pm CT. This CoP will run from August 2025 - September 2026)* January 13, 2026 February 10, 2026 March 10, 2026 April 14, 2026 May 12, 2026 June 9, 2026 July 14, 2026 August 11, 2026 September 8, 2026 **Please Note:** * Each session will require separate registration. * Attend sessions based on your availability. * Certificates will be issued for each separate session. * Future topics will be determined based on outcomes from the listening session.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to: * Explain the core concepts and spirit of Motivational Interviewing and how they support engagement with tribal clients. * Identify key features of the Precontemplation stage, including sustain talk, ambivalence, defensiveness, and culturally rooted reasons for resistance. * Apply culturally responsive MI strategies that honor Indigenous values, relational worldviews, and tribal sovereignty. * Use OARS skills (Open Questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries) in culturally relevant ways to build trust and compassion. * Recognize how historical trauma, systemic distrust, and community expectations influence client behavior in precontemplation. * Evoke cultural strengths—such as connection to land, ancestors, family, and identity—to help clients explore discrepancies and internal motivation for change. * Demonstrate MI-consistent responses to sustain talk and resistance using reflective listening, autonomy support, and trauma-informed practices. * Integrate culturally relevant supports, including elders, cultural mentors, circles, and community resources, when appropriate and aligned with client choice.

* Community Corrections Officer * Tribes/Tribal Partners