It’s no secret that addiction recovery is a challenging process. For many people, the temptation to relapse can be strong. There is also the problem of not feeling motivated to stay clean and sober. This is where motivational enhancement therapy (MET) comes in.
MET is a form of counseling that helps individuals develop and strengthen their motivation to change addictive behavior. In this post, we’ll discuss what MET is and how it can benefit those in addiction recovery.
What is Motivational Enhancement Therapy?
Motivational Enhancement Therapy or MET is a therapeutic counseling method that motivates the individual to change for the better. The therapist works with the individual to help them develop a plan to achieve those goals. The focus of MET is on building motivation, rather than on changing behavior directly.
MET is based on the principle that people are more likely to change if they are motivated to do so. It’s a counseling style that aims to help individuals become more open to drug addiction or alcohol abuse treatment. This type of therapy is short-term and typically takes 4 to 6 sessions.
The main goal of MET is to motivate the individual to change a person’s negative thoughts and behavior to something more constructive. Initially, there will be an evaluation of the individual’s condition. The therapist analyzes the background and medical history of the individual to further understand a person’s cause for addiction and alcoholism.
After, the therapist, together with the individual, will formulate specific goals to be achieved for the succeeding sessions of MET. To strengthen long-term sobriety, there will be a series of reinforcement to promote a positive mindset and coping mechanisms.
Is MET a Stand-Alone Treatment?
Typically, MET is incorporated with other interventions to achieve a more intensive recovery process. Some of the common interventions paired with MET include the 12-Step Method, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Biofeedback Therapy.
The reason why MET is not done as a stand-alone treatment is that it is only short-term and can be more effective when complemented with other therapies. For instance, if an individual relapses, MET can be used to get the person back on track and help them develop a stronger motivation to stay sober.
What Are the Techniques Used for MET
In practice, MET uses five techniques for treating addiction and alcoholism. The overall impact of this therapy is growing the motivation of the individual to overcome addiction and alcohol dependence.
Below are the five techniques used for MET:
1. Developing empathy
In boosting the individual’s motivation for change, the therapist will help them develop the feeling of empathy and learn how to express this to others. When the client knows how to empathize with others, it increases their interest to change for the better. Furthermore, empathy also fosters a stronger bond with other people. Trust and transparency will be built again as empathy is internalized by the client.
2. Recognizing the gap between thoughts and reality
The therapist will gradually help the client recognize the difference between reality and misconceptions. Once the client is made aware of this, it will be easier to encourage positive changes.
3. Avoiding conflict and arguments
The therapist will never get into an argumentative discussion with the individual regarding their addiction. In contrast, the therapist will boost the client’s positive disposition and motivation for sobriety.
4. Accepting a resistant attitude
The therapist accepts that it’s common for people to resist change initially. The therapist’s job is to find the root cause of this resistance and help the individual work through it.
5. Reinforcing self-efficacy
The MET therapist supports and reinforces the individual’s self-efficacy. This helps the client to feel more capable of making positive changes and sticking to them in the long run.
How is MET incorporated in Addiction Treatment Programs?
The first stage of any treatment program will be a complete evaluation of the individual’s medical and psychological background. The doctor or physician will provide a suitable detoxification method to remove excess toxins inside the system. These medications will address the physiological aspect of addiction treatment, whereas, Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) will target behavior and cognition. It is a fact that addiction and alcoholism not only disrupt the bodily conditions of an individual but will also damage behavior and thinking.
Many cases of addiction also showed signs of a dual diagnosis, that is, there is a co-occurring mental disorder. To resolve this concern, MET will be incorporated into the comprehensive substance abuse treatment program.
Below are some of the dual diagnoses treated by MET:
- Bipolar Disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive Disorder
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
- Eating Disorder
- Depression
MET will not only address the addiction problem of the individual but will also treat the co-occurring mental disorder. The comprehensive treatment program will aim to achieve long-term sobriety and recovery.
Is Motivational Enhancement Therapy Right for You?
If you want to boost your or your loved one’s motivation for change, MET may be a suitable treatment for you. This type of therapy is most effective when used in conjunction with other therapies and treatment programs. It may not be as effective as a stand-alone treatment since it is only short-term.
The right approach is to contact an expert addiction treatment specialist. A consultation can help you determine whether MET is appropriate for you or your loved one. The specialist will also be able to advise you on an addiction treatment program that will work best for your unique situation.
