Behaviour Change

Discover how behaviour change therapy can help you build healthier habits, overcome challenges, and create lasting change with support from psychologists in Geelong.

Changing behaviour is hard — whether it's improving communication, eating healthy and exercising, managing anxiety, breaking a habit, or building healthier routines. Our behaviours are shaped by more than willpower; they're influenced by thoughts, emotions, relationships, past experiences, and our environment.

While knowledge is helpful, it’s often not enough. Real change requires insight, motivation, and support that addresses the deeper patterns behind how and why we act.

The Stages of Change Model

Developed by psychologists James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente, this model outlines six stages individuals typically move through when changing behaviour. It recognises that change is rarely a straight line — setbacks are common, and growth takes time.

Precontemplation

• No recognition of the need to change.
• Focus: Raise awareness and gently encourage reflection.

Contemplation

• The issue is acknowledged, but ambivalence remains.
• Focus: Explore reasons for and against change, and clarify values.

Preparation

• The decision to change has been made; planning begins.
• Focus: Set goals and identify strategies or support.

Action

• Active efforts to change are underway.
• Focus: Reinforce progress, celebrate wins, and maintain motivation.

Maintenance

• New behaviours are sustained and integrated into daily life.
• Focus: Strengthen coping strategies and prevent relapse.

Relapse

• A return to old patterns — often temporary and part of the learning process.
• Focus: Support recovery, reduce shame, and re-engage with goals.

How Psychology Can Help

At Head Start Counselling & Psychology, we understand that behaviour change is personal. Whether you’re working toward emotional, relational, or lifestyle goals, our psychologists and counsellors provide guidance tailored to your stage of readiness.

Therapy can help you:

• Understand the ‘why’ behind your behaviours
• Clarify what matters to you
• Strengthen coping skills and motivation
• Work through setbacks