Training on motivational interviewing and case management for volunteer social workers at ward and commune levels to implement the model of counseling, support, care, treatment, and drug addiction recovery in the community

From August 26 to 28, 2024, the Vietnam International Technology Transfer Center (V-ITTC) at Hanoi Medical University, in collaboration with the Sub-Department of Social Evils Prevention Hanoi, organized a training course on “Motivational Interviewing” and “Case Management” for 24 volunteer social workers from various wards and communes. This training is a crucial preparatory step for the implementation of a pilot model of counseling, support, care, treatment, and drug addiction recovery in the community. The three locations where the model will be implemented are Nghia Tan Ward – Cau Giay District, Chương Duong Ward – Hoan Kiem District, and Vinh Quynh Commune – Thanh Tri District.

Over the course of three days, the trainees shared the advantages and challenges of implementing the model and practiced motivational interviewing. During the training, they also participated in group discussions, sharing real-life experiences from working with people who use drugs (PWUD). Through the dedicated guidance of the V-ITTC instructors, the trainees gained valuable methods for addressing the challenges they face in supporting individuals with substance use issues.

The training provided trainees with an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of counseling for individuals with substance use disorders. The content covered basic counseling skills, methods for conducting a motivational interview, identifying stages of behavior change in substance users, and handling difficult situations. Notably, the trainees had the opportunity to practice motivational interviewing, applying the newly learned skills directly during the training sessions.

The training is a necessary preparatory step for the implementation of a pilot model of counseling, support, care, treatment, and drug addiction recovery in the community. This model aims to provide comprehensive counseling and support services for individuals with substance use disorders. It will not only focus on medical treatment but also integrate social services to better meet the diverse needs of PWUD.

After the training, the V-ITTC team will directly visit the selected areas to provide technical support to the trainees in their efforts to engage with and conduct motivational interviews with individuals who use drugs in the community. This program is being implemented by V-ITTC to help PWUD improve their health and raise awareness about available medical services, including insurance, legal support, and general healthcare. Preliminary results will shed light on the effectiveness of motivational interviewing and case management methods, serving as evidence for broader implementation in the future.