Stages of Change
CASE STUDY
Charlie is a 41 year old male who has been participating in counseling for three months. Charlie was initially referred by his Employee Assistance Program for concerns about his alcohol consumption. Charlie initially presented as ambivalent about achieving sobriety and demonstrated resistance to giving up his lifestyle of social drinking. However, after several sessions, Charlie seemed to realize the impact of his drinking behaviors. He reported that he did not want to lose his job and since he had been referred by EAP (Employee Assistance Program), he was concerned that this was his one and only chance to change his behavior. Charlie also indicated that alcohol had become so much a part of his life that he didn’t know how to begin to live without drinking. Charlie decided to take small steps to eradicate alcohol from his life. He stated that he would no longer order a drink with his meals, nor would he order a cocktail after work with his friends. Charlie stated that both of these tasks would be difficult for him, but identified a commitment to change his behavior.
What stage of change is Charlie in?Justify and explain your answer.
How will you help Charlie proceed to the next stage of change?