I selected the Trans-Theoretical Model, also known as the Stages of Change Model

I selected the Trans-Theoretical Model, also known as the Stages of Change Model, which describes the process of change as a series of stages that patients go through when changing a behavior. This model can be used to guide the process of incorporating music therapy as a treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The Trans-Theoretical Model consists of five stages: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. The first step, precontemplation, occurs when the patient is not aware of the problem or is not ready to make a change. Patients with GAD that are in the precontemplation stage may not be aware of their symptoms or may not believe that they need treatment. The second stage, contemplation, is when the GAD patient becomes aware of the problem and starts to consider making a change (Hongmei, 2022, p. 121). The GAD patient may start to research different treatment options and weigh the pros and cons of each alternative. During the contemplation stage, the GAD patient may start to research music therapy as a treatment option and consider its potential benefits and drawbacks. The third stage, preparation, is when the GAD patient begins to make plans to change their behavior. The GAD patient may start to gather information and resources and may even start to make small changes in their behavior. During the preparation stage, GAD patients may start to gather information about music therapy, find a qualified therapist, and make an appointment for an initial session. The fourth stage, action, is when the GAD patient takes specific steps to change their behavior. The action stage consists of the GAD patient actually starting music therapy sessions. The action stage typically involves the most intense and frequent changes (Hongmei, 2022, p. 121). The final stage, maintenance, is when the GAD patient works to prevent relapse and continue making positive changes. In the maintenance stage, the GAD patient would continue to participate in music therapy sessions, monitor their symptoms, and take steps to prevent relapse.
It’s important to note that individuals may move back and forth between stages or may get stuck in a particular stage. Understanding where an individual is in the process can help to identify the appropriate strategies and interventions to help them move forward. Incorporating music therapy as a treatment option for GAD would involve a multidisciplinary approach, collaboration between healthcare providers and music therapists, as well as communication with the patient and their family (Cole, 2020, p. 186). Providing education about the benefits of music therapy and addressing any concerns or misconceptions about the treatment can help to move individuals from the precontemplation and contemplation stages to the preparation stage.
I selected the Trans-Theoretical model to encourage music therapy as a non-pharmacological alternative treatment for generalized anxiety disorder because I believe that this model helps to creatie an individualized treatment plan that addresses the unique needs of the patient. This model does a great job of providing ongoing support and guidance during the action and maintenance stages that can help to increase the chances of success (Cole, 2020, p. 186). This can involve incorporating other therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help address the underlying causes of GAD and support the positive changes made through music therapy. The Trans-Theoretical model also does a great job encouraging the involvement of patients and their families in the process of incorporating music therapy as a treatment option. By focusing on the strengths and positive aspects of the patient and their family, it can be possible to create a sense of empowerment and ownership in the treatment process (Cole, 2020, p. 186).
References:
Cole, G. (2020, May 11). The trans-theoretical model for mindful cognitive behavioral therapy a paradigm for systematically advancing evidence-based practice and research. Cogent Psychology, 1(21): 182-191.
Hongmei, Y. (2022). Research progress on application of the trans-theoretical model and stages of change in standard precautions among nurses. Chinese Journal of Integrative Nursing, 8(4): 121-125.