Understanding the 6 Stages of Change And Why Every Stage Matters

Annie Best
May 26
2 min read

One of the most important things I want my clients to know is this: change doesn’t happen in a straight line, and that’s completely okay. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, or big life transitions, change tends to follow a pattern. It's not always smooth. It loops, it stumbles, and sometimes it circles back. And all of that is part of the process.

Let’s break down the 6 stages of change using this simple image I love — it captures it perfectly.

1. Precontemplation

This is when you might not even be thinking about change. Maybe you're overwhelmed, stuck, or just tired. Maybe people around you are nudging you, but you're not there yet. That’s fine. You’re not “doing it wrong.” This is part of the process.

2. Contemplation

Now you're thinking about it. Maybe you're imagining what life could look like if things were different. But you're not sure how or when to begin. This stage is often full of self-doubt and questions, and again, that’s okay. That’s where I come in. In my counselling in Basingstoke, I help people get clearer and feel less alone during this messy middle.

3. Preparation

You’re starting to plan. Maybe you’ve googled a therapist.You're reading, exploring options, and starting to get ready. This is a brave step. Even small things like writing in a journal or setting a tiny goal count.

4. Action

This is where you start making visible changes such as going to therapy, setting boundaries, trying new habits. It can be exciting, but also intense. It’s okay if it feels hard. Real change usually does.

5. Maintenance

You’ve built some momentum. You’re keeping up the new habits, staying on track. But that doesn’t mean everything is perfect — it just means you’re working at it. Progress, not perfection.

6. Relapse

Let’s be honest — this happens. You fall back into old patterns. You feel like you've "messed it up." But you haven’t. This stage is also part of the cycle. It’s not failure — it’s feedback. In my anxiety counselling in Basingstoke, I help clients use relapse as a learning point, not a dead end.

You’re Not Alone In This

Whatever stage you’re in — even if it’s square one — you’re not broken, and you’re not behind. Change is hard, and it’s never about “willpower” or “getting it right.” It’s about support, timing, and kindness toward yourself.

And that’s where I come in. My job as a therapist offering counselling in Basingstoke is to walk with you through this process. Not to rush you, fix you, or judge you — just to help you find your way forward.

If any of this sounds familiar, or you're curious about starting therapy,