We work to prevent escalation and/or PRU referrals by utilising Motivational Interviewing (MI).

MI is a counselling style that stimulates behavioural change by focusing on exploring and resolving ambivalence.

In group MI, the group leader shapes conversations so that the emphasis is on behaviour change. A key and critical strategic intervention to maximise group impact is the use of advanced conversation shaping. This involves the group leader making links between one group members perspectives, values and behaviours and the other group members to help them identify similarities with each other, helping to support group cohesion.

Maximising impact requires advanced skills in shaping conversations so that they have a productive focus and flow, leading members towards greater clarity regarding their behaviour, values and goals. 

Finally, this motivates each member to be more invested in their plans for change.

When children and young people remain ambivalent about change and unclear about how services can help them achieve their goals, they are less likely to engage and more likely to develop conflicts with staff and other participants.

MI helps to increase engagement and reduce dropout rates, leading to improved outcomes (Hettema, Steele, & Miller, 2005).

MI helps children resolve their uncertainty about change, develop specific goals and implement plans for these goals.