Which of the following is NOT one of the stages of motivational interviewing?

Motivational interviewing is a patient-centered counseling approach that enhances motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. The method consists of several key stages that help to facilitate effective communication and support behavior change.

The guiding stage involves the clinician helping the patient navigate through their thoughts and feelings, encouraging self-discovery and ownership of the decision-making process. The following stage emphasizes listening and validating the patient's experiences, allowing them to express themselves fully. The directing stage is characterized by a more authoritative approach, where the clinician may provide information and suggest directions based on the patient's needs.

The recommendation stage is not a recognized stage of motivational interviewing, which is why it is the correct choice. This approach does not focus on giving direct recommendations to the patient; rather, it emphasizes collaboration, evocation, and autonomy to empower patients in their journey toward change. Therefore, understanding the absence of a structured recommendation phase is crucial in grasping the foundational principles of motivational interviewing.