Explain motivational interviewing's core spirit and two key techniques used by recovery coaches.

• A. The core spirit is collaboration, evocation, and honoring client autonomy; two key techniques are open-ended questions and reflective listening.
• B. The core spirit is directive persuasion; techniques are close-ended questions.
• C. The core spirit is silence; techniques are lecturing.
• D. The core spirit is control; techniques are coercive pressure.

Answer: (A)

Motivational interviewing emphasizes collaboration, evocation, and honoring client autonomy. This client-centered approach helps clients explore ambivalence and tap into their own reasons for change. The two techniques most associated with recovery coaches using this approach are open-ended questions and reflective listening. Open-ended questions invite clients to discuss their values, goals, and concerns in depth rather than simply yes or no answers, helping surface intrinsic motivation. Reflective listening involves restating what the client has expressed and, when appropriate, reflecting underlying feelings; this shows understanding, builds rapport, and encourages the client to expand on their thoughts and articulate change talk. These elements align with a collaborative, non-coercive stance, unlike directive persuasion, lecturing, or coercive pressure.