Change is never easy—especially when it comes to addiction. Whether you’re working with clients in recovery or navigating your own path to sobriety, understanding how change happens can make all the difference. That’s where the Stages of Change in Addiction model comes in. This model is widely used to help individuals with addictions progress through different phases of behavior change and recovery.
Also known as the Transtheoretical Model, this evidence-based framework outlines the psychological process individuals go through when addressing substance use or other compulsive and addictive behavior. From denial and avoidance to action and long-term recovery, these stages provide a roadmap for navigating the ups and downs of change.
Clinicians use this model to tailor interventions and track progress. For those in recovery, it offers validation and structure during what can often feel like a chaotic or cyclical journey.
In this article, we’ll break down:
Let’s explore the cycle of change in addiction and how it can empower long-term transformation.
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The Stages of Change Model is a helpful tool in the addiction recovery process. It explains how people move from problematic behavior toward lasting behavioral change. This model is especially useful when working with addictive behaviors such as alcohol abuse, drug abuse, or compulsive habits.
This model was first developed by psychologists Prochaska and DiClemente. It’s now used in treatment programs, support groups, and clinical care. As a result, many addiction professionals rely on it to plan interventions and track progress.
The model outlines six key stages. These stages include precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and termination. Each stage involves a shift in how someone thinks and feels about change.
Importantly, the model recognizes that change occurs gradually. In the beginning, someone may have limited awareness of their behavior or its negative consequences. Over time, they move toward healthy behaviors and new coping skills.
Because relapse is common, the cycle often repeats. There is always a risk of relapsing, where individuals may return to previous problematic behaviors during the change process, especially if they are not fully prepared or committed to their action plans. That’s why it’s used not just in therapy, but also in group therapy, support groups, and even in treatment centers. It helps people prepare for the immediate future and build confidence.
In short, the model helps people move from status quo to a new status quo—a healthier, more stable life.
The Stages of Change Model helps explain how people work through addiction recovery. Each stage shows a different level of motivation and readiness. This model is useful in treatment facilities, therapy, and support groups. It can also help people trying to quit smoking, stop drinking, or change other addictive behaviors.
At this point, the person is not thinking about change. They may deny having a problem. Often, they are unaware of the negative consequences of their behavior. Because of this, they don’t see the need for treatment. Education and support are key here.
Now the person is starting to think about change. This is known as the contemplation stage, where individuals are considering or thinking deeply about modifying their addictive behaviors. They recognize the problematic behavior, but still feel unsure. During the contemplation stage, individuals may be considering making a change within the next six months. This stage often brings up fear and doubt. However, it’s also a sign of progress. Talking through options in group therapy or with a counselor can help.
In this stage, the person is ready to act. They may make a plan or reach out to a treatment program. For example, they might schedule an appointment at a treatment center or talk to a support group. Their goal is to take steps soon—often in the immediate future.
This is when real behavior change begins, as individuals actively work to overcome addiction by implementing strategies and making daily choices that support recovery. The person may attend therapy, start medication, or join support groups. During this stage, their lives often change significantly, with improvements in lifestyle, self-care, and emotional well-being as they commit to sustained change. They work hard to avoid triggers and stay on track. It’s also a critical time to build new, healthy behaviors. Relapse can happen here, so relapse planning is essential.
Once the person has made changes, they work to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. This can last months or even years. Over time, the effort feels more natural. Eventually, some people reach the termination stage—where the risk of relapse is very low, and a new status quo has been established.
This model shows that recovery is a process, not a single decision. With the right support, long-term change is not only possible—it’s sustainable.
Understanding the five stages of change is important, but applying them in a real-world setting is what helps people heal. In counseling, this model helps both clients and clinicians create the right action plan—one that supports long-term change, not just short-term motivation.
Each stage gives clues about where someone is emotionally and mentally. For example, a person in pre contemplation might not be ready to change yet. However, that doesn’t mean they aren’t moving forward. With the right support and information, they can enter the next phase when they feel safe and understood.
Counselors often use motivational interviewing to help people reflect and explore their old habits, thoughts, and fears. In time, they begin to adopt new behaviors and create a new life that feels more manageable and fulfilling.
Change rarely happens in isolation. That’s why family members, friends, and peer groups play such a key role. When they provide support, offer empathy, or join sessions in person, it boosts accountability and connection.
Clinicians also help clients gather the necessary resources, such as access to mental health care, a safe living space, and group therapy. These supports can help the person stay on the right path for the long haul.
Change is not quick. Often, it takes six months or more to reach total abstinence and sustain it. But with consistent effort and the help of an addiction treatment program, many people do succeed in reaching their ultimate goal: a healthier, more grounded life.
Understanding the five stages of change is one thing. Watching someone move through them is another. Let’s look at how this model applies to one person’s addiction recovery journey.
Jamal is in the first stage of the recovery process. He drinks heavily on weekends but doesn’t believe it’s a problem. Friends and family members express concern, but he brushes them off. This is typical of pre contemplation—there’s little awareness of the harm being done.
At this point, the counselor’s job is not to force change. Instead, they can work closely with Jamal to increase awareness. Asking reflective questions and gently exploring his health, relationships, and goals can open the door to the next stage.
Eventually, Jamal admits that his drinking causes tension with his partner. He also notices how exhausted he feels on Mondays. He starts to think about cutting back. This is where health promotion becomes essential. His counselor introduces strategies to improve sleep and manage stress—without alcohol.
He also explores other behaviors that impact his well-being, like skipping meals or avoiding social events.
Jamal creates an action plan. He chooses preventative medicine strategies like weekly group therapy and a structured routine. With this plan, he begins shifting from contemplation to committed action.
This case shows how change is layered. Progress may be slow, but every step forward matters.
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After the initial stages of change, many people believe the hard work is over. However, this is when the real challenge begins. Long-term addiction recovery depends on learning how to maintain sobriety, avoid triggers, and build a meaningful new life.
Even after reaching the termination stage, there is always a risk of slipping back into old habits. This is why treatment programs place a strong focus on relapse prevention.
At this point in the recovery process, the goal isn’t just to stay sober—it’s to live well. That includes developing new coping skills, strengthening relationships, and setting goals for the future. These are all key elements of health promotion.
Support systems are essential. Ongoing therapy, support groups, and peer accountability can make the difference between progress and setback. As people move forward, they may revisit tools from earlier stages to handle stress or life changes.
The ultimate goal is sustainable change. That means more than just quitting a substance—it means building a life worth protecting. When someone achieves stability, self-trust, and personal growth, they’ve truly moved into the next stage of lifelong healing.
