Motivational Interviewing (MI) has more research to support its effectiveness than most medications- and using it increases the chances our interactions will be more rewarding, more connected and less argumentative. MI is applicable to any behavior change, has been studied cross-culturally, and employs some strategies that can actually shorten some visit types. In this practical workshop, you’ll get a brief overview of the most current and compelling research on MI and substance use disorders; learn the 5 most powerful strategies for helping patients struggling with SUD or other behavior changes; and 2 “anti-growth” statements to avoid saying to patients (and our friends and family!) to increase the likelihood of positive care outcomes.

Presented by: Elizabeth Morrison PhD, LCSW – CEO and Principal at EM Consulting

We are in the helping professions to help- yet being human means we, like everyone else, have negative judgments, biases and stigma about particular conditions, characteristics and populations. Excavating our own biases around addiction, drug use during pregnancy, “problem” patients and more can help us be of optimal service to those in our care- and can help us in our personal lives, as well.  In this workshop you’ll get a brief overview of the most current and most intriguing research on stigma and its impact on health outcomes; practical strategies for identifying our own biases, and evidenced-based techniques to mitigate bias, judgment and stigma, in order to provide the best care possible. 

Buprenorphine Treatment for addiction is now primary care- yet not all of us feel comfortable with the pharmacology. In this workshop, you’ll hear the current best practices for using buprenorphine to treat opioid disorder in pregnant and parenting women. Come and get your questions answered.