The Power of Motivational Enhancement Therapy
Navigate the complexities of addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. At MBO, our motivational enhancement therapy empowers lasting recovery.
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MBO Can Help You Harness Motivation For Your Treatment
At Mind Body Optimization (MBO), we’ve pioneered an innovative and personal path to recovery. Our utilization of motivational enhancement therapy (MET) can help improve your commitment to your unique journey.
We recognize that substance use and mental health disorders don’t exist in isolation. They’re often interconnected, each influencing and often exacerbating the other. This complex relationship demands a nuanced, integrated treatment plan.
At MBO, we understand this connection. That’s why motivational enhancement therapy isn’t just a therapy we use – it’s a transformative experience.
Aligning our integrative philosophy with cutting-edge, evidence-based treatments, we empower you or your loved one to harness your inner strength and motivation towards healing and growth.
Our Purpose
Recovery can often feel isolating. However, you don’t have to walk this journey alone. Our goal is to help you work through every step of your wellness treatment within the nurturing environment of MBO.
We’re not just treating your symptoms; we’re aiming to heal you as a whole person. MET facilitates change, supports resilience, and promotes lasting wellness.
We use it to illuminate the path to rediscovery and empowerment for those grappling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Read on to uncover the transformative potential of motivational enhancement therapy at MBO, where healing begins with understanding and compassion.
Understanding the Need for MET
Substance use disorder (SUD) and recovery are intertwined with the intricate workings of the human brain and body. Our brains are governed by a delicate balance of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals responsible for our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
When substances enter our system, they have the power to disrupt this balance. By mimicking, blocking, or enhancing these natural chemicals, they can rewire your brain. This makes substances incredibly addictive and challenging to move away from.
What is MET?
Motivational enhancement therapy is used not to treat, but to transform. MET is a client-centered counseling approach that helps you find the internal motivation needed to change.
While traditional therapies guide you through a step-by-step recovery process, motivational enhancement therapy focuses on your internal resources to foster rapid, motivated change.
Intention of MET
At its core, MET revolves around empathy, supporting your sense of autonomy, and the reinforcement of self-efficacy.
We’ll focus on techniques such as:1
- Open-ended questions
- Reflective listening
- AffirmationÂ
- Developing and expressing empathy
- Accepting resistance as part of the process
At MBO, we focus our discussions on your substance use and its impact on your life. This helps you envision a future free of addiction and provides you with planned steps to realize this vision.
Theoretical Framework and Evidence Base Supporting Motivational Enhancement Therapy
MET is grounded in the principles of motivational psychology and is supported by a robust evidence base. It was developed in response to the observation that individuals struggle with addiction, that they’re often ambivalent about engaging in treatment, and that creating lasting change is difficult.
The framework of motivational enhancement therapy revolves around this hesitation to increase your commitment to change.
Research has shown that MET is effective in treating a range of substance use disorders. One study demonstrated its ability to reduce the severity of substance misuse and to promote engagement in further treatment. By focusing on enhancing intrinsic motivation, MET facilitates sustainable change.2
How is MET Different From Other Therapeutic Approaches in SUD Treatment?
MET stands out at Mind Body Optimization for its unique approach in engaging you in your own healing process. We also utilize other evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Yet, motivational enhancement therapy begins with the foundational belief that you have the power to change. This approach respects each person’s autonomy and capacity for self-directed growth.
It’s not about prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution – it’s about unlocking your individual potential to overcome addiction.
How Does MET Enhance Other Therapies?
In treatment, utilizing MET alongside other evidence-based and holistic therapies provides individuals with a supportive framework to both understand and cultivate their willingness to change while also giving them the tools they need for lasting recovery at home and beyond.
Integrating the Science of Substance Use Disorder with MET
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and mental health conditions tend to occur concurrently. This complex interplay highlights the need for approaches like MET.
In 2017, among adults in the United States, an estimated 14.1 million battled AUD, while nearly 50 million faced mental health disorders. Within these demographics, 5.9 million adults contended with both conditions concurrently.3
The overlap between these conditions is often associated with higher relapse rates and increased emergency service use. MET’s emphasis on internal motivation and self-efficacy is particularly resonant in this context, and it offers a beacon of hope for those navigating these complexities.
The Importance of Motivation in Substance Use Disorder Recovery
Motivation is the cornerstone of any large change, especially in the context of substance use disorder recovery.
At MBO, we understand that the journey towards recovery inherently begins with your desire to change. This intrinsic motivation is what fuels the commitment to pursue sustainable transformation.
Motivation is not static. It fluctuates throughout the recovery process, influenced by personal, social, and environmental factors. However, being able to cultivate higher levels of self-motivation is associated with better treatment outcomes in SUD recovery.4
Common Barriers to Motivation in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Several barriers can hinder motivation in individuals facing substance use disorder. These include:
- Ambivalence about change
- Fear of failure
- Lack of support
- Stigmatization of addiction
Ambivalence, or the state of having mixed feelings about recovery, is particularly challenging. It can stem from a fear of losing the coping mechanism that substances have provided, despite the negative consequences.
Additionally, the stigma associated with addiction often leads to shame and isolation, diminishing your belief in your own ability to change.5
How MET Addresses Ambivalence and Enhances Motivation for Change
By creating a supportive environment, motivational enhancement therapy helps you explore your reasons for change. It reinforces your autonomy and capacity for self-directed growth.
The therapy approach facilitates a deeper engagement with the recovery process with targeted strategies, such as:
- Personalized feedback
- Exploration of the pros and cons of substance use
- Visualization of a substance-free future
MET’s efficacy in enhancing motivation is well-documented. In fact, those who underwent motivational enhancement therapy demonstrated a greater readiness to change. They were also more likely to engage in later treatment compared to those who did not receive MET.6
This approach aligns with MBO’s holistic philosophy, as we recognize that sustainable recovery is not about imposing change but instead about unlocking your drive towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Our Whole-Person Approach to Healing
At MBO, we know that true healing and sustainable recovery require a harmonious balance between the mind and the body.
Our approach is rooted in understanding that your journey is unique to your needs and life journey, which means it requires personalized care that addresses not just your symptoms but the underlying causes of your challenges.
This philosophy is the bedrock of our commitment to providing comprehensive, integrated care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
MBO's Comprehensive Treatment Model for Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Disorders
MBO’s treatment model addresses the complex interplay between substance use disorders and mental health conditions. We use a multimodal approach that integrates evidence-based therapies, cutting-edge research, and holistic practices to offer the most effective treatment possible.
Our model includes a range of services from:
- Medical managementÂ
- Psychotherapy
- Mindfulness practices
- Nutritional counseling (coming soon)
This is to ensure that all aspects of your health are supported. By treating SUD and mental health disorders concurrently, we aim to enhance your resilience. This gives you all of the tools you need for self-management to aid in deeper, more lasting recovery.
Best Practices and Techniques in Motivational Enhancement Therapy
Motivational enhancement therapy places you in control – our role is simply to encourage you to tap into your innate capacity to change while providing support. Using a non-confrontational, person-centric approach, we make sure you feel seen and heard.
These techniques help elicit “change talk.” This is a verbal sign of your readiness to consider, start, or continue to change behaviors related to your substance use.
Another critical tool in motivational enhancement therapy is the decisional balance exercise. This helps you weigh the pros and cons of substance use, thereby enhancing your motivation to change.
How Our Therapists Use Motivational Enhancement Therapy
We implement MET fostering a non-judgmental environment that encourages open dialogue. We focus on building a strong therapeutic alliance, acting as a partner in your recovery.
MBO therapists are adept at recognizing and reinforcing change talk, helping you articulate your reasons for change.
Empowering Clients Every Step of the Way
You are at the center of your recovery journey, and you already have the capacity for self-directed change. Motivational enhancement therapy empowers this sustainable recovery by helping you identify your values and goals related to substance use and beyond.
We’ll help you understand your current behaviors and how to adapt them to meet your life goals. By giving you the skills to navigate uncertainty, MET lays the foundation for lasting transformation.
Collaborative and Client-Centered Care: MET in MBO's Treatment Continuum
At Mind Body Optimization, the utilization of MET is a collaborative effort. Your team includes psychologists, psychiatrists, addiction specialists, and counselors, all working together to provide a cohesive and integrated treatment.
The collaborative approach ensures that motivational enhancement therapy is not delivered in isolation, but addresses all aspects of your health.
Our interdisciplinary team also regularly meets to discuss your progress. They share insights from their respective areas of expertise, and adjust treatment plans as needed. Such collaboration ensures that MET is integrated with other therapeutic modalities, thereby providing a holistic approach to recovery.
Tailoring MET to Address Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders and Individual Needs
At MBO, we understand there is a high prevalence of co-occurring mental health disorders with substance use disorders.
Using motivational enhancement therapy helps us tailor your treatment plan so that we not only address substance use, but also look at any underlying mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD.
We work to identify specific triggers and develop coping strategies that address both sets of challenges. By focusing on your strengths and motivations, our compassionate team at MBO empowers you to take an active role in your recovery. This is not just about sobriety but also a higher quality of life and well-being.
Is Motivational Enhancement Therapy Right For You?
We’ve underscored MET’s pivotal role in catalyzing change for individuals grappling with substance use disorders and other mental health challenges.
By focusing on personal goals and values, motivational enhancement therapy facilitates a deeper, more meaningful engagement with treatment, setting the stage for lasting change.
Embrace MET as a Catalyst for Recovery
Healthcare professionals and clients alike should recognize the transformative potential of MET within the recovery process.
For professionals, integrating MET into treatment offerings can enhance the therapeutic relationship and improve outcomes. For clients, engaging with MET can be a powerful step toward reclaiming control over one’s life.
Commitment to Continued Innovation and Integration of Evidence-Based Practices
Mind Body Optimization remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation and the integration of evidence-based practices. MET is just one component of our holistic treatment model. We continue to evolve to incorporate the latest research findings and therapeutic advancements.
Our dedication to offering comprehensive, integrated care ensures that you benefit from a treatment plan that treats you as an individual, not just the symptoms of your disorder.
Pave a Path Worth Following
We invite anyone struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders, along with their families and healthcare providers, to explore the possibilities of MET at Mind Body Optimization offer. Together, we can overcome the challenges of recovery.
Reach out to MBO today to learn more about our innovative approaches, including MET. We can support you or your loved one on the path to recovery and beyond.
Resources
- https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2012-17300-000
- https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.1.102803.143833
- https://arcr.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-use-disorder-and-co-occurring-mental-health-conditions/integrating-treatment-co-occurring-mental-health-conditions
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1080/10550490490435777
- https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2F0003-066X.59.7.614
- https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/sites/default/files/match01.pdf
