The behavior change approach draws from the most effective behavioral strategies and concepts found in 3 evidence-based treatments: CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). Put simply, the Invitation to Change Approach brings science and kindness together: evidence-based strategies (communication and reinforcement tools) are combined with compassion and care, making a wealth of research-supported and clinically tested knowledge accessible, practical, and understandable for those who need it most. This course includes a brief 3-part introduction to the Invitation to Change approach.
Introduction: An Invitation to You
Presenting the Invitation to Change as a wheel made strong by eight spokes—the eight sections of this approach—all connected to the hub of practice.
Part One: Helping with Understanding
In this section, we begin to create the conditions for change. After all, change—more specifically, a shift from old, less constructive behaviors to new, more constructive behaviors—is what we are “inviting” with ITC. In this part, we offer families new ways to see a loved one’s behavior and new ways to understand the situation. By looking at the problem from a different perspective, they can start to create an environment in their home and a sense of possibility in their relationship that will help everyone take steps toward positive change.
Part Two: Helping with Awareness
In part one, families work through some new ways to understand their loved one’s behavior. This part invites them to include themselves in the change process by focusing on their experience. Increasing their awareness of themselves—their emotions, reactions, values, and personal limits—makes a huge difference in being more effective helpers. We often describe this part of helping as “what I can do on the inside.” The final part, “Helping with Action,” addresses what they can do “on the outside.”
Part Three: Helping with Action
In this section, we offer practical communication and behavior tools participants can use to improve their interactions with their loved one. We know that despite one’s good intentions, conversations with loved ones can go off course and become unproductive. Communication often takes a serious hit during times of stress and heightened emotion, and in the face of scary behaviors like misusing substances, discussions tend to focus on the latest disappointment or the last time the loved one used. A goal in this section is to help a loved one develop varied, healthy behavioral tools that allow them to thrive and to navigate life.
How it works
First, watch a video presentation by Dr. Nicole Kosanke. Then, take a quiz and complete the course evaluation to receive your certificate.
- Video Presentation (1 hour)
- Quiz
- Evaluation
About the Presenter
Nicole Kosanke, Ph.D. Dr. Kosanke is a Clinical Psychologist and Director of Family Services at the Center for Motivation and Change’s outpatient division in NYC, where she specializes in working with family members of people abusing substances and in the assessment process for families and individuals. Read more
Continuing Education
Participants who complete this course will receive a certificate for 1 contact hour.