What question could a nutrition counselor ask to align with motivational interviewing when a client is hesitant about home-prepared meals?

Asking what the pros and cons of eating more meals at home is a productive way to engage with a client who is hesitant about home-prepared meals. This question aligns well with the principles of motivational interviewing, which emphasizes collaboration, empathy, and exploring a client's own motivations and concerns.

By framing the question in terms of pros and cons, the nutrition counselor encourages the client to reflect on their own beliefs and experiences. This approach promotes a non-confrontational dialogue, allowing the client to express their thoughts and feelings about home cooking, identify potential barriers, and consider the advantages they might not have recognized. This self-reflection can often motivate clients to think more positively about the possibility of cooking at home and lead to a greater commitment to making dietary changes.

Moreover, this question helps demystify the process, enabling the client to analyze their situation more deeply, which can empower them to take ownership of their dietary choices. This approach builds rapport and reinforces the client's autonomy in decision-making around nutrition.