Which technique is commonly used to support behavioral change in clients?

Motivational interviewing is a widely recognized technique designed to support behavioral change in clients by enhancing their intrinsic motivation to alter their behavior. This client-centered counseling style encourages individuals to explore and resolve ambivalence related to change. It involves gaining insight into the client's perspective, building rapport, and collaboratively setting goals. The approach emphasizes empathy, open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations, which helps clients identify their reasons for change and strengthens their commitment to taking action. By focusing on the individual's readiness to change and addressing barriers, motivational interviewing effectively guides clients toward making healthier choices and adopting new behaviors.

Other options pertain to different strategies or settings that may support behavioral change, but they do not specifically target the intrinsic motivation and ambivalence that motivational interviewing addresses. For instance, cognitive restructuring focuses more on changing thought patterns rather than directly fostering behavior change through motivation. Behavioral reinforcement involves using rewards to encourage positive behavior but may lack the comprehensive, empathetic approach that motivational interviewing offers. Group therapy can provide social support and shared experiences, but it may not be as individualized or focused on personal motivation as motivational interviewing is.