The PMHNP is evaluating a 28-year-old female client who regularly uses cocaine on the weekends and has been reluctant to discuss quitting. Which of the following statements by the PMHNP would follow the motivational interviewing principle of focusing?

Choice A reason: This statement reflects the motivational interviewing principle of expressing empathy. It validates the client’s emotional experience and builds rapport but does not focus the conversation on change or the specific issue of cocaine use. Choice B reason: This statement exemplifies the principle of focusing. It acknowledges the client’s perceived benefits of cocaine use while gently steering the conversation toward exploring the negative consequences. This helps the client begin to consider change by weighing pros and cons. Choice C reason: This is an open-ended question that aligns with the principle of engaging, not focusing. It invites the client to share but does not direct attention to the specific issue or encourage reflection on change. Choice D reason: This statement may come across as confrontational or dismissive. It risks eliciting defensiveness and does not align with motivational interviewing principles, which emphasize collaboration and evoking the client’s own motivations for change.