About Telos - The Why

When I was first introduced to Motivational Interviewing (M.I.) I had recently retired from the state patrol, and instantly viewed it through the lens of a law enforcement officer. And, when I was tasked to implement M.I. for all social workers within the state of Washington, I discovered the power it carried, not just for individual/organizational change principles, but also in the way it was designed to effectively communicate with people. I began witnessing firsthand the effect it had on conversations, building trust and connecting with people. Not just on a surface level, but that deep, endearing connection in which we all want and strive for. I became passionate about M.I. simply because I wanted people to be the best versions of themselves; to be able to navigate hard conversations or help others who need it; to truly feel heard-and-understood. There is no greater satisfaction than the deep connection M.I. creates. It is because of this passion I began Telos Motivational Interviewing in 2016 and I am excited to share this passion and knowledge with all. 

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Empowering Professionals Through Proven Expertise

As a leading communication expert, we provide law enforcement, health and human service professionals and leaders with vital skills in effective interaction and individual change management using the construct of Motivational Interviewing. At Telos Motivational Interviewing, our approach combines classroom instruction with ongoing consulting, ensuring our clients are equipped to create positive outcomes and navigate complex situations. We're here to help you achieve your goals. Reach out today for more information on our tailored programs.

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A Legacy of Proven Impact

  • Foster Safer, More Collaborative Environments: We provide the tools to enhance communication and implement change that builds stronger organizations, teams and individuals
  • Built for high-stakes Roles: our programs address the unique challenges of professionals in demanding fields, empowering them to manage change, communicate better and improve outcomes
  • Make a lasting impact: Motivational Interviewing is a game-changer for professionals. The skills learned will become a cornerstone tool when faced against future challenges of change or communication. 
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Meet The Instructors

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Jeffery

Jeffery was born and raised in the state of Nebraska. Jeffery’s professional career began in the United States Army. He received his undergraduate degree in criminal justice and psychology from the University of Nebraska in 1996. Jeffery’s law enforcement career beginning as a police officer in Garden City Kansas. He then later became a Trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol. During his tenure with the Nebraska State Patrol Jeffery was a member of the SWAT team, Mobile Field Force, High Response Traffic Unit and held certifications as a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE), Accident Reconstructionist and hostage negotiator. Jeffery was later assigned to the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy where he served as the basic recruit camp’s: Senior Teach, Assess and Correct (TAC) Officer and was train-the-trainer level certified in: Defensive tactics, firearms, DRE, patrolling, radar/LIDAR, Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC), MILO systems, Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST). 

Upon retiring from the Nebraska State Patrol Jeffery accepted a position in Oregon as a Protective Service Investigator where he investigates allegations of mental health abuse on behalf of the state. He is currently assigned to Clackamas County. Jeffery obtained his Master’s degree in Leadership (with an emphasis on change management and communication) through Capella University in 2014. It was during this time in which Jeffery was introduced to Motivational Interviewing and the amazing power it held in helping people grow both personally and professionally. Jeffery turned this power into passion when he started Telos Motivational Interviewing in 2015. 

Jeffery’s goal is to have all people feel heard and understood, communicate effectively and grow together. This objective became the cornerstone to Telos Motivational Interviewing: The Mission to Teach and Heal.

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Lauren

Lauren is a skilled Motivational Interviewing instructor with five plus years of experience teaching MI to frontline workers, community teams, and homelessness service providers. With nine years of hands-on practice in homelessness diversion and Housing Problem Solving, she has supported thousands of people in crisis—helping individuals avoid homelessness, access critical resources, and enter treatment, including many who were chronically homeless.

As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC I), Lauren brings a strong foundation in addiction recovery and behavior change to every training environment. She understands, from real-world experience, how people access housing, engage in services, and make meaningful progress when the right support and communication tools are in place.

Lauren is also highly skilled at bringing local experts and practitioners into the room, creating collaborative learning environments grounded in community knowledge. Her teaching style is clear, engaging, and deeply informed by her years of direct service work, system leadership, and MI practice in high-stakes, real-world situations.

Empowering Communication and Change Leadership

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