On July 7, Healthy Archuleta hosted a motivational interviewing (MI) refresher training led by Stacey Foss, bringing together 15 participants from Healthy Archuleta, the Archuleta County Department of Human Services and Authentic Solutions.
The training focused on strengthening communication skills that help people navigate change through empathy, curiosity and active listening rather than judgment or persuasion.
MI is an evidence-based approach used across health care, behavioral health, education and human services to help individuals discover their own motivation for change.
During the session, participants practiced the core MI skills known as OARS (open-ended questions, affirmations, reflections and summaries) and learned to recognize “change talk” — the language people use when they begin moving toward positive change.
The training also introduced the decisional balance, or “Four Boxes,” exercise, a practical tool that helps people work through uncertainty by exploring the benefits and challenges of both staying the same and making a change.
Participants discussed strategies for reducing defensiveness, building trust and creating conversations where people feel heard, respected and empowered to make decisions that align with their own values and goals.
Healthy Archuleta is committed to building the skills of local organizations and community members through training opportunities that strengthen collaboration and support a healthier, more connected community.
If you are interested in participating in future training sessions offered by Healthy Archuleta, email fsfearchuleta@gmail.com or learn more about upcoming opportunities by visiting www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org.
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