What is an important strategy when addressing client ambivalence?

Creating a discrepancy is a vital strategy when addressing client ambivalence because it helps clients recognize the differences between their current behaviors and their desired outcomes. This technique draws attention to the gap between where they currently are and where they want to be, promoting self-reflection and increasing motivation for change. By highlighting this discrepancy, clients may become more aware of their conflicting feelings and can start to resolve them, ultimately leading to more commitment and progress toward their goals.

This approach is particularly effective in motivational interviewing, a technique often used in behavioral and lifestyle change contexts. By illuminating inconsistencies in a client's thoughts, beliefs, or actions, the practitioner assists them in navigating through ambivalence, allowing for a clearer commitment to change.

Creating clear goals, siding with the positive, or developing a detailed plan may all be beneficial in their own right, but they do not directly address ambivalence as effectively as creating a discrepancy does. Clear goals and plans are important for providing direction, while siding with the positive can foster support. However, they may not encourage the critical reflection needed to resolve mixed feelings effectively.