This is the first meeting event of the new Manchester Motivational Interviewing Network - a network for practitioners and researchers interested in exploring the impact of motivational interviewing, behaviour change and promoting wellbeing. The Network has been recently developed by psychologists at the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University and is open to anyone with an interest in the utility of MI from any personal or professional interest point.

4:00-4:10pm Welcome – Dr Sarah Parry, Clinical Psychologist, Manchester Metropolitan University

4:10 - 4:30pm Discussion around the use MI in practice – Dr Cathy Atkinson, Educational Psychologist, University of Manchester

Since its first appearance in the literature almost 35 years ago, there have been a number of changes to the core structure of motivational interviewing (MI) which have presented challenges for researchers and practitioners alike. In this session, Cathy will discuss ways in which MI has developed over the years, and how it has been adapted for a range of contexts and for use across different populations. The potential usefulness of frameworks for supporting MI practice will be briefly debated.

4:30 – 5:30pm Structured activities to explore the use of MI across a range of practitioner fields – Mr Harvey Wells, Medical Communications and Researcher

5:30pm – 5:50pm Feedback questionnaire and discussion, tea and cake!

5:50 – 6:00pm Plenary

Please contact Jude Rodwell if a parking space is required with your name and registration plate details: judith.rodwell@mmu.ac.uk The pay and display machine is located just under the footbridge once you have collected your permit from reception, there will be a 30p charge.

There are 50 places available at this event. If you wish to be placed on the mailing list for future information and events, please contact: Sarah Hodson at Sarah.Hodson@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk We would be grateful if you could provide your name, profession and/or interest in MI and a current email address.

If you book a place and are not able to attend, please let us know as soon as possible.

The Current Network Team:

Cathy Atkinson is Curriculum Director of the Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology programme at the University of Manchester and a Health and Care Professions Council Registered educational psychologist. She has a long-standing interest in motivational interviewing, particularly in relation to its application with children and young people.

Sarah Parry is programme lead for the Psychological Wellbeing Training Pathway at Manchester Metropolitan University and a Health and Care Professions Council Registered clinical psychologist. Sarah has a keen interested in motivational interviewing, especially in terms of working with colleagues in looked-after children’s services.

George Thomas is a practitioner Educational Psychologist working for Bright Futures Educational Trust in the East and South Manchester regions. George has an interest in evidence-based practice and therapeutic interventions, and has used Motivational Interviewing to support behaviour change among young people.