Stages of Change

Treatment

Application of planned procedures to identify and change patterns of behavior that are maladaptive, destructive, or health injuring; or to restore appropriate levels of physical, psychological, or social functioning

Stage of Change: Maintenance

Continued commitment to sustaining new behavior. Post-6 months to 5 years. Want to plan for follow-up support. Reinforce internal rewards. Discuss coping with relapse.

Stage of Change: Precontemplation

Not considering change, lack of readiness. Want to encourage re-evaluation of current behavior. Encourage self-exploration not action. Explain and personalize the risk.

Stage of Change: Action

Practicing new behavior for 3-6 months. Want to focus on restructuring cues and social support. Bolster self-efficacy for dealing with obstacles. Combat feelings of loss and reiterate long-term benefits.

Stage of Change: Relapse

Resumption of old behaviors. Want to evaluate trigger for relapse. Reassess motivation and barriers. Plan stronger coping strategies.

Stage of Change: Preparation

Some experience with change and are trying to change. Planning to act within 1 month. Want to identify and assist in problem solving re: obstacles. Help patient identify social support. Verify patient has underlying skills for behavior change. Encourage small initial steps.

Stage of Change: Contemplation

ambivalent about change, not considering change within the next month. Want to validate lack of readiness. Clarify decision is theirs. Encourage evaluation of pros and cons of behavior change. Identify and promote new positive outcome expectations.