Nebraska Probation’s Motivational Interviewing training team was awarded the Special Topics Award during the Recent International Association of Correctional Training Professionals Annual Conference.  This award is given for high quality training in a particular course, program, or subject.  The MI team is made up of 37 trainers from across the state, and lead by Judicial Branch Education trainer Sherri Gelvin. 

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is used by Nebraska State Probation to ensure all interactions and risk/needs assessments are completed thoroughly and accurately. This is a fundamental skill needed to set up supervision and probation officers for success.

Trainers have varying positions within Probation, ranging from Drug Techs, Support Staff, Probation Officers, and Administrative Staff.  They train multiple curriculums for all probation staff.  Probation Officers, Assistant Probation Officers, and Case Monitors complete Phases I and II.  Officers who work with the highest-risk probationers also complete a third phase of training.  Support Staff, Drug Techs and RISE Specialists attend a two-day MI course designed specifically for their positions.  Additional training, called Communities of Practice, is also offered at the local level to help staff further develop their MI skills. 

The Motivational Interviewing training team is a vital part of Nebraska Probation’s success.