Assessing readiness for change requires a foundation of trust to ensure open communication and accurate evaluation of the individual’s motivation. The CPRP Exam Blueprint (Domain I: Interpersonal Competencies) emphasizes building trust and rapport as the primary initial goal to facilitate engagement and effective assessment (Task I.B.3: "Adapt communication strategies to build trust and engagement"). Option A (building trust and rapport with the individual) aligns with this, as a trusting relationship encourages the individual to share their thoughts and feelings about change, enabling the practitioner to assess readiness (e.g., through the Stages of Change model) accurately.

Option B (understanding the context) is important but secondary to trust, which enables context exploration. Option C (assessment of routines) is specific to action planning, not readiness assessment. Option D (identifying goals) follows readiness assessment, which first evaluates motivation. The PRA Study Guide highlights trust as critical for readiness assessment, supporting Option A.