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A client comes in for their 4th coaching session. The client is exploring cooking more rather than eating out to try and reach her goal of eating healthier. She also comments it would save her money but she really doesn't know how to cook either. The client is struggling with ambivalence around this issue.

Which open-ended question would be best for a client in this position?
A. What would have to happen that would signal you that it's time to start thinking about changing?
B. What would be some pros and cons of making a change right now?
C. What has worked for you in the past?
D. Why make this change?

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

The most effective open-ended question to ask a client who is ambivalent about learning to cook is, "What would be some pros and cons of making a change right now?" This encourages the client to reflect on the advantages and challenges of taking action, facilitating a deeper examination of their motivations and barriers.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a client who is exploring cooking at home as a way to eat healthier and save money but is experiencing ambivalence towards learning to cook, the most effective open-ended question would be, "B. What would be some pros and cons of making a change right now?" This question directly addresses the client's current state of ambivalence and encourages them to weigh the positive and negative aspects of taking action versus maintaining their current habits. This reflective question can help the client to articulate their feelings and potentially move towards making a decision.

Discussing the pros might reveal motivations such as health benefits and financial savings. Meanwhile, acknowledging the cons could uncover barriers like the time commitment required to learn to cook and the fear of failure or not enjoying the process.

This approach can be part of a broader strategy within the process of motivational interviewing, which is designed to support clients in resolving their ambivalence and finding the internal motivation to make behavioral changes that align with their goals and values.

User Joshua Dance
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