What stage describes a client who is considering change within the next 6 months?

The stage that describes a client who is considering change within the next six months is known as the Contemplation stage. In this phase, individuals are aware of their problems and are beginning to contemplate the possibility of making a change. They have not yet committed to taking action but are actively weighing the pros and cons of altering their behavior. This stage is characterized by ambivalence—a person may feel both the desire to change and the anxiety or fear that the change might entail.

In contrast, the Pre-contemplation stage refers to individuals who are not yet considering change and may not be aware of the need for it. The Action stage involves individuals who have actively engaged in specific overt modifications of their behavior, and in the Maintenance stage, individuals work to consolidate their gains and avoid relapse after having made changes. Understanding these stages helps healthcare providers support clients effectively as they navigate their journey toward change.