In the ASK mnemonic, which item helps assess the client's readiness at intake?

In the ASK mnemonic, which item helps assess the client's readiness at intake?

• A. Onboarding paperwork
• B. Readiness
• C. Agreement
• D. Direction

Answer: (B)

Assessing readiness to change at intake informs how you begin the coaching process by identifying how prepared the client is to engage in a change plan. The Readiness item directly gauges motivation, willingness, and confidence to take action, which helps you tailor the pace and approach of the early sessions. Administrative onboarding paperwork handles forms and logistics, not the client’s motivation to change. Agreement sets the coaching relationship and boundaries, while Direction focuses on where the client wants to go; neither specifically measures readiness. Knowing where the client stands in readiness allows you to decide whether to start with concrete goals and steps or to first build motivation and confidence before moving forward.

Assessing readiness to change at intake informs how you begin the coaching process by identifying how prepared the client is to engage in a change plan. The Readiness item directly gauges motivation, willingness, and confidence to take action, which helps you tailor the pace and approach of the early sessions. Administrative onboarding paperwork handles forms and logistics, not the client’s motivation to change. Agreement sets the coaching relationship and boundaries, while Direction focuses on where the client wants to go; neither specifically measures readiness. Knowing where the client stands in readiness allows you to decide whether to start with concrete goals and steps or to first build motivation and confidence before moving forward.