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In the early 1990's a team of researchers developed
a tool for change. The following is an excerpt from The Transtheoretical
Model of Change or STAGES OF CHANGE. This illustrates very clearly
the process individuals go through when making a change. Each stage
lasts for various lengths of time, but can be shortened due to the
individuals motivating factors. This model also illustrates why
family and friends find the helping process a taxing and difficult
one especially when individuals are in the initial stages of change.
At New Life we work with clients, motivating them through the stages
of change. With the goals of awareness, responsibility and change,
clients are engaged in a therapeutic process, which promotes life
changes that are significant and lasting.
PRECONTEMPLATION
Stance
- No intentions of change "I have no
interest in quitting/reducing."
Reasoning
- Unaware/underaware of problem and its effect
- Others See Problem
- Reluctance - lack the knowledge or energy
to consider change
- Rebellion - have a heavy investment in the
problem behavior and in making their own decisions
- Resignation lack of energy and investment
have given up on the possibility of change and seem overwhelmed
by the problem.
- Rationalization - has all the answers -
gives reasons for why the problem is not a problem or is a problem
for other but not for them.
CONTEMPLATION
Stance
- Aware of problem
- Thinking, but no commitment "I want
to quit/reduce, but I really like it."
Reasoning
- Ambivalence (weighing benefits vs. fears
of quitting/reducing)
- Will be open to processing information but
not setting goals or changing behavior
- Can remain in this stage for a very long
time
PREPARATION
Stance
- Serious commitment to change a priority
"I am ready to quit."
- Requesting advice and information
Reasoning/Plan
- Have a realistic assessment of degree of
difficulty
- Recognition that sustained action is required
- Most individuals in this stage make a serious
attempt at change in the near future and many have made an attempt
to modify their behaviors in the recent past.
ACTION
Stance
- Have a plan (and have made small changes)
- Motivated, Exited about change
Reasoning/Plan
- Implements the plan - changes behavior -
ex. Quits using the chemical
- Frequently craves the chemical of choice
- This stage usually last 3-6 months
MAINTENANCE
- Work at establishing new patterns
- Threat of relapse or a return to old patterns
becomes less frequent and less intense with time
At New Life Counselling we work with clients, motivating
them through the stages of change. With the goals of awareness,
responsibility and change, clients are engaged in a therapeutic
process, which promotes life changes that are significant and lasting.
Research shows that when appropriate out-patient/in-patient treatment
is given, and when clients follow their prescribed program, treatment
can work. More importantly, treatment can help keep you and your
loved ones together.
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