Motivational Enhancement Therapy 

When someone enters a Pride Detox addiction treatment program, we first evaluate their history and overall health to identify what they need from our care. If they still have drugs in their system, they will participate in a drug detox program. Once they are out of that phase, we can begin rehabilitation, and this might include Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), a therapeutic approach that helps clients alter the thoughts and behaviors tied to substance use.

What is Motivational Enhancement Therapy 

Motivational Enhancement Therapy is an evidence-based counseling approach that helps people overcome ambivalence about changing their substance use. It is grounded in motivational interviewing principles and aims to evoke internal motivation rather than impose change from outside. Pride Detox uses MET to treat substance use disorders, and we structure it around an initial assessment followed by three to six weekly therapy sessions.

The therapy begins with a thorough evaluation of the person’s substance use patterns. The therapist then provides personalized feedback and encourages open discussion about the person’s relationship with substances. This discussion is intended to spark “change talk”—self-motivating statements that support behavioral change. The therapist helps the individual identify goals, recognize discrepancies between current behaviors and personal values, and develop strategies to reduce or stop substance use.

Unlike traditional therapy, which tries to push a person through a rigid recovery path, MET nurtures autonomy and self-efficacy. At Pride Detox, your therapist is a collaborative partner, not a director. You can even invite the people you love to sessions because their support may help reinforce motivation. MET has been found effective in major clinical trials like Project MATCH and remains a valuable tool for initiating meaningful, lasting change in people with substance use disorders.

How does Motivational Enhancement Therapy work?

Motivational Enhancement Therapy is structured around five core elements delivered through a collaborative therapeutic process:

• Expressing Empathy: Therapists use reflective listening to express empathy. This communication style builds trust, deepens understanding, and acknowledges how difficult change can be. This element of MET is often referred to as engaging.
• Developing Discrepancy: The therapist supports the person in identifying personal goals and values, then examines how current behaviors may be at odds with those ideals. Together, they define specific behaviors the person may want to change. This practice is known as focusing.
• Avoiding arguments: Therapists steer clear of criticizing the person or their behavior, as this can trigger defensiveness and resistance. Instead, they use more supportive and non-confrontational approaches to help the person recognize potential issues. The motivation to change is encouraged to come from the individual themselves, rather than being imposed by the therapist
• Rolling with Resistance: Rather than confronting resistance head-on, MET invites curiosity about ambivalence. Resistance is seen as part of the journey. Therapists encourage and reinforce what's known as “change talk” during this stage.
• Building Autonomy and Self-Efficacy: Often considered the planning stage, this phase involves exploring concrete strategies for making changes and navigating setbacks. Commitment and goals may also be shared with a supportive loved one to strengthen motivation.

How Does Motivational Enhancement Therapy Help with Addiction Recovery?

Motivational Enhancement Therapy supports recovery by helping people strengthen their internal desire to change behaviors driving substance use. Unlike long-term therapies, MET is typically completed in just a few weeks. Each session focuses on increasing motivation and building practical strategies for change. 

MET is especially effective for people who may not yet see the full impact of their drug or alcohol use. It meets clients where they are and helps them confront the gap between their actions and their values. Through reflective conversations and feedback, clients begin to resolve ambivalence and commit to meaningful change.

Get Started with Motivational Enhancement Therapy at Pride Detox

Pride Detox is an LGBTQ-affirming addiction treatment center offering individual and group counselling sessions that integrate Motivational Enhancement Therapy. Our team will ensure that your substance use treatment plan meets your needs, and MET can be offered with other therapies for a more comprehensive, affirming approach. If you are ready to make a change, we are here to support you. Call us today at 866-381-8221 to access care that will support your lasting recovery.