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Motivational Enhancement Therapy

   Drug problems are viewed as behaviors under at least partial voluntary control of the client, which are subject to normal principles of behavior change. Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) is a client-centered counseling approach  based on principles of cognitive and social psychology, in which the counselor seeks to develop a discrepancy in the client's perceptions between current behavior and significant personal goals.

   The working assumption on which Motivational Enhancement Therapy is based on is that intrinsic motivation is a necessary and often sufficient factor in instigating internal changes, representing a suitable prelude to other treatment approaches designed to enhance treatment response.

   This drug treatment approach has been used successfully with alcoholics and marihuana-dependent individuals. Motivational Enhancement Therapy basic therapeutic style remains the same regardless of target drug, but specific content, like assessment feedback, may vary. Motivational interviewing principles are used to strengthen motivation and build a plan for change. Coping strategies for high-risk situations are suggested and discussed with the client. In subsequent sessions, the therapist monitors change, reviews cessation strategies being used and continues to encourage commitment to change or sustained abstinence. A respectful, reflective approach is used throughout MET with minimal advice or direction. The goal is still confrontation in the sense of bringing the client face to face with a difficult reality.

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