STAGES OF CHANGE

Written By Lindsay Daws

The Stages of Change model describes how people move through the process of changing behavior. It helps clinicians and clients understand readiness and plan appropriate steps. The stages are:

  • Precontemplation: Not yet recognizing a problem or considering change. Individuals may be defensive or unaware of consequences.

  • Contemplation: Acknowledging a problem and weighing pros and cons of change, but not yet committed to action.

  • Preparation: Planning to take action soon and may start small steps; building confidence and strategies.

  • Action: Actively implementing behavior change and using coping skills to modify habits.

  • Maintenance: Sustaining new behaviors over time and preventing relapse by reinforcing gains.

  • Relapse: Returning to previous behaviors. Seen as a common part of the process, not a failure; it informs revised planning and renewed motivation.

Using this framework supports tailored interventions—motivational work in earlier stages, concrete skills and supports during action and maintenance—and normalizes setbacks as opportunities to adjust the plan and continue progress.

Lindsay Daws https://DawsMentalHealthCounseling.com
Next

Growing Around the Grief