Motivational interviewing is used by social workers to:

Motivational interviewing is a client-centered counseling approach designed to enhance an individual's motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. This technique is particularly effective in social work because it empowers clients to articulate their own motivations and reasons for wanting to make changes in their lives. By focusing on the client's personal values and goals, social workers can facilitate a discussion that encourages clients to take ownership of their journey toward change.

The approach involves open-ended questions, reflective listening, affirmations, and summarizing, all aimed at helping clients identify their own motivations and barriers to change. This method is aligned with the principles of humanistic psychology, emphasizing respect for the client's autonomy and the belief that they are capable of change when they are motivated and ready.

The other options do not fully capture the essence of motivational interviewing. While evaluating client needs can be a part of a broader treatment plan, it is not the primary goal of motivational interviewing. Building rapport is definitely an aspect of social work practice, but the focus of motivational interviewing goes beyond just casual conversation; it specifically aims to evoke a deeper motivation for change. Providing direct instructions about desired changes contradicts the fundamental principles of motivational interviewing, which prioritize the client’s self-determined decisions over directive advice.