A Revolutionary Six-Stage Program for Overcoming Bad Habits and Moving Your Life Positively Forward

When I did my graduate-level practicum, my site supervisor recommended that I read this book. I was absolutely amazed at how well the author laid out the steps for a person wanting to make a change in their life. Not only does the author lay out the steps, but he also provides definitive guidelines to a changer for moving from one stage to the next. I was so convinced of the benefits that this book could provide that I presented its contents and ideas to fellow practicum students during a seminar. The author also presents the use of his techniques in quitting smoking and in quitting drinking. Finally, although the book is geared towards self-changers, I believe that with only a little (very little) modification, much can be used by therapist in bringing about change in a client.

I ordered this book for a class called "Facilitating Change" I was taking as a part of my Master of Arts in Counseling program. I found it easy and enjoyable to read and extremely useful for application with clients in the counseling field and in my own personal attempts at change. I enjoyed the multitude of examples given in the book and the realistic approach that the authors took toward change. I recommend the book for professionals wishing to integrate the process of change into their practice or for individuals searching for ways to make change work in their own lives.

OK, finally a book for change that is truly worth embracing. This is based on research, not mere theory. It clearly sets forth the process for how people change across a spectrum of stages that make sense. Several common problems are used as examples of the process. The reader without substantial background in psychotherapy may need some help, or a coach. I suggest the reader pick some area of his life where change is desired (start with something small to get the process learned both with word images and behavioural experience) and work through the book. Once the process is learned, move on to new challenges.

Focus on rational thought to overcome addictive behaviors. Explained clearly and concisely. Could have been expanded to include more general harmful, compulsive and maladaptive behaviors. Overemphasis on substance abuse.

As a motivational speaker and trainer, I have read countless books on change, and this is my number one show at my seminars. Prochaska gives a clear, concise, easy to understand map to changing even the most difficult behaviors. What makes this book different from the rest is that it is heavily research and theory based -- Prochaska's own work -- without getting heavily bogged down for the lay reader. Fabulous analogies and metaphors, with special emphasis on the power of social support. I thank him for sharing his research and findings with us so that we can all benefit from it!!

I thought some of the authors' conclusions were rather illogical. While they compiled a list of traits they felt led to successful behavior change, and it could be that individuals that accomplish successful change exhibit these traits; it doesn't seem logical to me to assume that others will become successful if they adopt these same traits. I also felt that the authors left many gaping holes in their "steps to change". Never could I find a real process that would endow someone with these traits if you were not already blessed with them. Obviously this book is popular with budding psychologists (one recommended it to me); but speaking as a person who has had a life-long struggle with changing my behaviors, I didn't find much real-life help here.

Very good read if not somewhat clinical. Read this book to address smoking the steps provide a great platform to rid yourself of harmful habits. I have been successful quitting smoking. Enough said?
Use this book with companion spiritual material and you will indeed overcome.

Being a "rationalizer and Intellectualizer" par excellance, this book gave me the insight I needed to see where I was "stuck" and why the conventional menthods of programs like "AA" just do not work for me. Splendid advice for anyone looking (seriously) to move forward in their attempts to change behaviors which no longer serve them.

I believe Changing for Good is really all one who is struggling with any addiction needs to overcome the bondage of addiction. If an individual struggling with addiction truly wants to overcome the addiction, would read and follow the principles layed out, they can have victory. It is well written, easily read and clear and to the point.

This book explains the model of change in a straightforward and applicable manner. Contains great examples and stories relevant to change, and the material is presented in a clear and intelligent manner. It will prove to be a great tool to use in my practice.

This book takes on a totally different approach on uncovering, through logical recall (employing the root cause process) of systemic issues that require attention before "healing" one self, can even commence. Thumbs Up!

In the first pages the authors claim themselves to be in the company of Darwin and Freud. If this book was written less egocentrically and didn't constantly shout "Look at us. We're the smartest psychologists ever!", then it might be readable.

In the first pages the authors claim themselves to be in the company of Darwin and Freud. If this book was written less egocentrically and didn't constantly shout "Look at us. We're the smartest psychologists ever!", then it might be readable.