Contemplation Stage
Thinking about changing, about why one follows the bad habit, what its payoff is. Bring both the rational mind and the emotions into play to move yourself to a commitment to change. “Sitting on the fence”
“Yes that is a concern for me, but I’m not willing or able to begin making a change within the next month.”
Goals:
1. Validate the patient’s experience
2. Clarify the patient’s perceptions of the pros and cons of making a change
3. Encourage further self-exploration
4. Leave the door open for moving to preparation
1. Validate the patient’s experience:
| “I’m hearing that you are thinking about making a change but you’re definitely not ready to take action right now.” |
2. Acknowledge patient’s control of the decision:
| “I don’t want to preach to you; I know that you’re an adult and you will be the one to decide if and when you are ready to do something.” |
3. Clarify patient’s perceptions of the pros and cons of the change:
| “Using this worksheet, what is one benefit of making a change? What is one drawback of change?” |
4. Encourage further self-exploration:
| “These questions are very important to beginning a successful change. Would you be willing to finish this at home and talk to me about it at our next visit?” |
5. Restate your position that it is up to them:
| “It’s totally up to you to decide if this is right for you right now. Whatever you choose, I’m here to support you.” |
6. Leave the door open for moving to preparation:
“After talking about this, and doing the exercise, if you feel you would like to make some changes, the next step won’t be jumping into action – we can begin with some preparation work.”
For More Information
Two blog posts from our sister site, moodsurfing.com, are filled with good information.