The core skills of motivational interviewing are often described through the acronym OARS. What does the A stand for?

The A in the OARS acronym stands for Affirming. In motivational interviewing, affirmations are verbal acknowledgments that recognize a person's strengths, efforts, and progress. This technique fosters a positive relationship between the coach and the client, reinforcing the client’s self-efficacy and motivating them further towards their goals. By affirming a client's experiences and recognizing their efforts, a coach can help cultivate a supportive environment where the client feels valued and understood. This is crucial in the context of counseling, as it encourages the client to continue exploring their motivations and challenges, thereby facilitating their journey toward change.