What is the primary goal of a motivational interviewing coach?

The primary goal of a motivational interviewing coach is to expose the client's ambivalence. This approach is centered around understanding the client's conflicting feelings about change. By facilitating a safe and non-judgmental environment, the coach encourages clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and motivations surrounding their behavior. This exploration helps clients recognize their ambivalence, which is often the root cause of resistance to change.

Addressing ambivalence enables clients to articulate their desires and concerns regarding their goals, ultimately leading to greater clarity and motivation to make positive changes. Through this process, clients are empowered to find their own reasons for change, increasing their commitment and likelihood of achieving their goals.

In contrast, the other options focus on aspects that aren't as central to the methodology of motivational interviewing. While accountability, teaching, and strategy development may play roles in a coaching relationship, the primary focus of motivational interviewing is to bring out and navigate the client's internal conflicts, fostering a more profound self-awareness that drives change.