Which technique in MI allows clients to express their own perceptions of change?

The technique that allows clients to express their own perceptions of change is open questions. This approach is foundational in Motivational Interviewing (MI) as it encourages clients to articulate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences regarding change in their own words. By using open questions, practitioners avoid leading or closed inquiries that might limit the client's responses, thereby fostering a deeper exploration of the client's motivations and ambivalence.

Open questions create a safe space for clients to reflect on their perceptions and insights, which is crucial for facilitating self-discovery and ownership of the change process. This method helps to elicit detailed responses and encourages clients to consider different aspects of their behavior and potential changes they may want to make.

In the context of MI, promoting client autonomy and self-efficacy is essential, and the use of open questions aligns perfectly with these principles. This technique not only allows clients to express their thoughts but also reinforces their capacity to navigate their change journey effectively.