Which of the following best represents the intention behind motivational interviewing?

The intention behind motivational interviewing is best represented by the focus on supporting client empowerment and self-direction. This approach is rooted in collaboration and honoring the client's autonomy, helping them to explore their own motivations and ambivalences regarding change.

Motivational interviewing emphasizes active listening and reflective questioning, enabling clients to articulate their personal goals and reasons for change. This process fosters an environment where clients feel understood and supported, encouraging them to take ownership of their journey toward health and wellness. By empowering clients, motivational interviewing helps them to identify their strengths and resources, promoting self-efficacy and sustainable change.

The other options depict approaches that do not align with the principle of motivational interviewing. An aggressive approach would undermine the client's autonomy, directly solving problems would take away the client's opportunity for self-discovery, and prioritizing the coach's agenda would not facilitate the collaborative spirit essential to motivational interviewing.