Some who seemed on the less damaged side actually made less progress than others who seemed more damaged. The decision was made to attempt to clinically discern whether there might indeed be a sequence that, when followed, accounted for the apparent success of the satisfied self-healers. Training workshops were developed, attended by the authors' own clients, clients of other therapists, active participants in Alcoholics Anonymous and other recovery programs and spiritually devoted clergy and lay-practitioners. They enter therapy seemingly motivated, but actually seeking palliative measures only. They terminate therapy as soon as their emotional discomfort passes.
Optimal treatment includes coping skills-building and brief therapy focusing on symptom relief.
Clients in this stage recognize their pain and deterioration as a wake-up call requiring nothing less than a fundamental change in life direction. Usually after numerous false starts, they are now fully determined to question and outgrow their survival plan, in search of a better way. These clients require acknowledgment for their commitment and support in aligning their commitment with their actions. As necessary, this begins with detoxification from alcohol or chemical abuse or addiction or crisis intervention. Foundation - In conjunction with their therapist, clients in this stage construct a Personal Healing Plan that helps them abstain from their anesthesias of choice and reorient their life direction and activities toward healing.