References relate to the problem being addressed, behavior changes you will support through group interventions, and textbook page citations for justification for group design elements.
1. Develop open-ended questions and your introductory script.
2. Choose a behavioral problem that interests you (for example, disease management, substance use, unsafe sex) and learn about best practices through a literature search (use academic or reputable websites).
3. Argue for why this problem is important, using statistics and other evidence from your literature search, and summarize behaviors the group is designed to help participants change.
Include all elements:
Group structure, format, size, composition, duration, and session length (with an explanation for each choice);
Sequential topics and related group objectives (use SMART goals)
A list of open-ended questions under each topic to evoke change talk, develop discrepancy between values and actions, and collaboratively plan for change.
Write what you would say to begin the group, setting the norms for the group while demonstrating empathy for how the group members may feel at their first session.
All interventions and group design choices are consistent with Motivational Interviewing theory and principles of group facilitation.
Wagner, C., & Ingersoll, K, (2013). Motivational interviewing in groups. Guilford.
Chapter 6: Designing Motivational Interviewing Groups
