This learning program equips learners to use Motivational Interviewing (MI) specifically tailored to engaging fathers and father figures of children involved in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Learners explore engagement strategies to help address the unique challenges these fathers face and how those challenges can affect concepts such as change talk and sustain talk, and it offers opportunities to practice foundational techniques and strengths-based feedback. Before attending this instructor-led training, learners must complete all course prerequisites listed below and an online pre-test.
Who Should Attend?
Direct service staff and supervisors working in Child Welfare or Juvenile Justice.
Course Benefits
Learners will:
- Gain insight into the social, political, and economic challenges that can limit father and father-figure involvement in family life.
- Strengthen communication skills to actively listen and recognize the emotions behind the experiences fathers and father figures share.
- Develop the ability to respond effectively to signs of motivation and help guide fathers toward meaningful personal and family goals.
Course Prerequisites
Prior to attending this course, learners are required to have completed the Foundations of Motivational Interviewing: Communicating to Build Partnerships and Foundations of Motivational Interviewing Practicum courses.
Course Components
Once enrolled in the course, learners will complete:
- An online pre-test.
- A one-day, instructor-led workshop.
- An online post-test.
Completion of all components is necessary to receive a Certificate of Completion.
Continuing Education Units
The New York City Administration for Children’s Services is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social
Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0402. This course is 6.0 contact hours/0.60 CEUs. CEU credit is contingent upon the completion of all course components.
Registration
Division of Child Protection staff can reach out to their Staff Development Coordinator (SDC) to register. All others can register in Cornerstone, by browsing for the course name and completing all information. For more information about the ACS Workforce Institute, please contact the Help Desk at WIhelpdesk@acs.nyc.gov or call (212) 748-1898.