The ITC training is structured as a two-step pathway designed to first build a conceptual understanding of the model and then prepare participants to implement the ITC in group or community settings.

Step 1: ITC Intensive (Foundational Training)

The ITC Intensive is our comprehensive, 16-17-hour foundational training. This workshop immerses participants in the full Invitation to Change model, including:

• The science behind the ITC concepts and skills. This includes studies of Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Community Reinforcement and Family Training.  
• The four core components of ITC include: 
  • Helping with Understanding
  • Helping with Awareness
  • Helping with Action
  • Practice. 
• Practical communication and behavior tools
• Experiential exercises and case application

The ITC Intensive is designed for clinicians, peer specialists, supervisors, community leaders, and anyone working directly with families affected by substance use. Throughout the training, participants engage in discussion about the critical need for stronger family support systems and learn how ITC offers an evidence-informed, actionable approach families can use to support change.

Learners spend meaningful time engaging with each ITC topic through structured exercises, reflection, and group debriefs to deepen understanding and application. Participants receive a certificate of completion and become eligible to enroll in the ITC Group Leader Training. Of note, the completion of the ITC Intensive is required prior to enrolling in the ITC Group Leader Training.

Step 2: ITC Group Leader Training (Implementation and Certification) 

The ITC Group Leader Training is an advanced, application-focused training designed to teach individuals and organizations alike how to formally implement ITC support groups in the communities they serve.

In this training, participants will:

• Learn to facilitate ITC groups using the 15-session and 5-session curriculums
• Receive guidance on group logistics, structure, and implementation
• Practice group facilitation skills and application of ITC tools 
• Join the ITC Certified Community upon completion

Those who complete the Group Leader Training become Certified and are then authorized to run ITC groups using the ITC curriculum. Certification includes ongoing access to group leader resources and supports including:

• Monthly support meetings with CMC:FFC trainers and other members of the ITC Certified community.
• Access to our ITC Certified Facebook group, where we regularly share resources and hold discussions about the ITC.
• Opportunities to connect with the ITC certified community members for collaboration, support, and continued learning.
• Access to our ever-growing resource library, including flyers, presentations, information sheets, and research articles.
• Use of our group leader materials, including a complete, 15-session and 5-session curriculums for leading ITC groups. 
• The ability to share information about your ITC group in our National Registry of ITC Community Groups.