

She is strongly committed to using only humane, positive training methods that are based on animal learning science, and frequently consults with her colleagues at the Academy to further her knowledge in training methods and best practices. Maureen’s particular strength is combining her knowledge of counseling and coaching along with her studies in positive reinforcement training techniques to help humans understand how to communicate and work with their dogs. After working in San Francisco as a social worker, she combined her lifelong love of dogs and her strengths in counseling and coaching to forge a career as a dog trainer. Maureen Backman, MS, CTC, graduated with honors from Jean Donaldson’s prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers, and has a graduate degree in rehabilitation psychology.

The most recent definition of Motivational Interviewing is
