What is the intent when a counselor says, "You say you want to decrease your sugar intake, but you said you ate chocolate cake for dessert every day last week?"

The intent behind the counselor's statement is to challenge the client's conflicting behaviors and statements. By highlighting the discrepancy between the client's goal of decreasing sugar intake and their recent eating habits, the counselor aims to draw attention to this inconsistency. This prompts the client to reflect on their choices and consider how their actions align with their stated goals. Challenging clients in this way can foster awareness and encourage them to take responsibility for their behaviors, ultimately guiding them toward making healthier decisions.

While educating, supporting, and advising are important roles in counseling, they do not capture the direct confrontation of inconsistency exemplified in this interaction. The counselor's approach encourages deeper engagement and self-reflection on the part of the client, fostering critical thinking about their dietary choices.