"Motivational Interviewing" Kicks Off OKDHS Fall Lecture Series

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL-- Motivational Interviewing is a powerful technique to increase commitment to following through and achieving goals. It’s an evidence-based model used in weight loss, tobacco cessation, and substance abuse/addictions. Understanding and implementing those skills is the topic of the first in the Fall Lecture Series presented by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). “Motivational Interviewing” will be Friday, August 17, from Noon to 1 p.m. at the Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive in Oklahoma City.

Guest speaker Bryan D. Bell will expose participants to the primary communication style being utilized by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (DOC) for supervising criminal offenders in the community. The skills, spirit and underlying principles of the communication model will be presented and the impact of its use will be discussed.

Bell is DOC Training Supervisor for the Central Region of Oklahoma, and is an adjunct professor for the college of Sociology and Justice Studies at Oklahoma City University. He has a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration and is a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers.

The Practice and Policy Lecture Series has been developed to provide thought-provoking presentations on Oklahoma's emerging policy issues, trends and best practices. The series is sponsored by the OKDHS Office of Planning, Research and Statistics and the University of Oklahoma Center for Public Management with the goal of providing the best educational opportunities available in a forum that offers participants an opportunity to question, share and learn. 

All lectures are free and open to the public.  For more information contact the Office of Planning, Research and Statistics at (405)521-3552. View the complete lecture series lineup at: Practice and Policy Lecture Series website Practice and Policy Lecture Series website (Link opens in new window).

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