When a person struggles with an addiction issue, either on drugs or on alcohol and gambling, even thought he realizes the impasse he may be in, as his problems daily multiply, at the same time he may probably ignore where to begin the efforts towards solution of his problem. The majority considers that kind of effort as difficult as climbing to the top of a mountain.
The stages of change
During my experience in addiction treatment, i have been trained in various theoretical models that attempt to describe one addict’s therapeutic journey and the path to change.
The intertheoretical model of change, by Prochaska and Diclemente, is one of the most representative models, describing the stages as a path each person will necessary pass through to achieve the complete cure. Furthermore, it is considered the most innovative model in addiction counselling as well as treatment thanks to its flexibily and implementation into various types of addiction issues. Additionally it can be responsive to the different needs of the individual guiding them, according to the stage they are as well as their readiness for change.
Generally, the stages are five and describe the points on which the person needs to focus by an expert’s guidance. The process comprised of the unconcern phase, followed by the concern phase, the preparation, the action and, last but not least, the maintenance phase.
Addiction recovery theories emphasize that both the therapist and the patient need to carefully study the above stages and, afterwards, they are able to design together an individualized treatment plan based on the triptych that consists of the type of addiction, the personality assessment and the readiness for change.
In conclusion, when it comes to addiction therapy methods, of a great importance is the encouregement and the empathy the patient needs to remain stable on the path of recovery. It is also vital for the patient to be aware of the benefits of seeking solution towards such a complicated problem as addiction is.
Let’s keep in mind that whatever the stage may be in, once the therapy journey starts, the possibilities to achieve a good result are being multiplied.
