In motivational interviewing, the role of the counselor is?

• A. A coach or consultant, asking key questions for learning
• B. A medical professional who prescribes medications
• C. A judge of readiness
• D. A passive listener

Answer: (A)

In motivational interviewing, the counselor serves as a collaborative guide who helps the client learn about their own motivations and goals. The best fit is a coach or consultant role, using open-ended questions and reflective listening to draw out the client’s values, ambivalence, and reasons for change. This approach emphasizes partnership, evoking the client’s own ideas for change rather than directing them or providing quick fixes. It also centers on autonomy, supporting the client’s capacity to choose a path forward. The role is not that of a medical prescriber, a judge of readiness, or a passive listener; instead, the counselor stays actively engaged, asking insightful questions and guiding the conversation to foster learning and motivation.