Researchers Carlo Di Clemente and James Prochaska developed the Stages of Change framework in 1977. This model can help evaluate a person’s readiness to make changes–in this case, start recovery and offers strategies or processes of change which guide a person into taking action.

There are many ways to view addiction, it can be helpful for family members or the person who is addicted themself to utilize Stages of Change for addiction recovery.

Precontemplation

Individuals who are in the pre-contemplation phase of the transition process have not considered the necessity of change or are not interested in getting professional assistance. 

At this point, a person who is addicted is likely to be defensive and attempt to justify the continued drug or alcohol usage. 

When working with a person who is in this particular stage, a recovery team aids the patient in advancing towards contemplation by gradually adjusting the focus of control of the patient over life in general (i.e. being aware of the real consequences of substance abuse and dependency).

Contemplation

At this stage, an addicted person would be open to conversation about the repercussions of addiction; yet, may continue to be hesitant about making a shift in behavior. 

During the contemplation stage of the treatment process, the team will continue to employ motivational interviewing techniques while also assisting the patient in weighing the advantages and disadvantages of certain behaviors.

Preparation

People have resolved to bring change at this point in the process. In many cases, patients will seek, even if unknowingly, to bypass this stage and go straight into taking action. 

Despite this, it is essential that the treatment professionals provide assistance to the patient while he/she is inadequately getting ready to take action. 

The counselors will provide the patient undergoing addiction recovery in Chevy Chase, MD the ability to gather information regarding potential possibilities for change and look into recovery supports that are tailored to match the patient’s own interests.

Action

People who are in this stage think that they have the capacity to change. They are actively engaged in the process of recovering from their condition. 

A patient’s own rehabilitation is given a boost by education, coping methods, and more importantly, the development of interpersonal communication skills. 

The patient puts forth a lot of effort into the work that has been assigned, including personal inventories and work to prevent relapse.

Maintenance

The patient learns how to manage and avoid triggers that would drive them back to addiction during the maintenance stage of treatment. 

People who have reached this stage of recovery prefer to focus on reminding themselves of their accomplishments and cultivating community support that reinforces their overall recovery objectives.

Seek Out Recovery Care Partner for Recovery Counseling in Maryland

The Stages of Change framework for addiction recovery can be useful in assessing a person’s willingness to make changes in their life.

Addiction resources  such as Recovery Care Partner can help patients along the continuum of care after a successful intervention. After entering treatment, patients start to acquire the skills and resources necessary to continue recovery when they return to their regular life. 

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