Stages of Therapeutic Change during Anxiety Treatment
The stages of therapeutic change are a framework for understanding the process of personal growth and change that occurs during therapy.
With Anxiety Treatment, it is incredibly important that the client and therapist align as to which stage the client finds themselves in.
A therapist may push a client away from entrenched patterns, but cannot force changes. Very importantly, a client must realize that what they have been doing thus far has not been serving them.
The following are the five stages of therapeutic change:
Precontemplation: In this stage, individuals are not yet considering change. They may be unaware of or resistant to the need for change, or they may not be ready to commit to making a change.
Contemplation: In this stage, individuals are considering making a change but have not yet committed to doing so. They may be weighing the pros and cons of change, exploring their options, and seeking information and support.
Preparation: In this stage, individuals are committed to making a change and are actively preparing to do so. They may be making plans, setting goals, and seeking support and resources to help them achieve their goals.
Action: In this stage, individuals are actively engaged in making a change. They may be taking steps to change their behavior, thoughts, or emotions, and may be seeking support and guidance from a therapist or other professionals.
Maintenance: In this stage, individuals have successfully made a change and are working to maintain their progress. They may be adjusting to new habits, coping strategies, and ways of thinking or feeling, and may be learning how to deal with challenges and setbacks.
It's important to note that the stages of therapeutic change are not always linear and can be cyclical.
Individuals may move back and forth between stages, and progress may not always be linear or predictable. Additionally, the length of time individuals spend in each stage may vary depending on their personal circumstances, goals, and needs.
In the world of OCD and Anxiety treatment, we speak in the language of recovery (and also relapse!) rather than “cure.” Therapeutic change is a process not a product, and anxiety treatment necessitates a positive, non-judgmental outlook by both therapist and client.
Overall, the stages of therapeutic change provide a useful framework for understanding the process of personal growth and change that can occur during therapy. By understanding these stages, individuals can better prepare themselves for the challenges and opportunities that come with the process of change and can work with their therapists to achieve their goals.
To learn more about our therapy services for anxiety, please contact Kairos Wellness Collective today.
