Motivational enhancement therapy


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Motivational enhancement therapy


Motivational enhancement therapy may be used in the treatment of alcohol or drug abuse problems. This therapy encourages a person to use personal motivation to stop using drugs or alcohol and to make changes that will lead to a better lifestyle.

Motivational enhancement therapy may be part of inpatient or outpatient treatment to stop abusing drugs or alcohol or to maintain sobriety. It is brief, lasting only 1 to 2 hours over 2 to 4 sessions, and may be combined with other types of counseling to enhance treatment. With the counselor's help, the person creates a personal plan and sets goals. The counselor helps the person understand the behaviors that lead to drug or alcohol use problems. The theory behind this therapy is that a person will be more motivated if he or she is able to personally set the goals for changing destructive behaviors.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Paul Lehnert
Editor Roya Camp
Editor Katy E. Magee, MA
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer James R. McKay, PhD - Psychology
Last Updated February 15, 2008

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Last updated: February 15, 2008
Author: Paul Lehnert
Reviewed By: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, James R. McKay, PhD - Psychology
Editors: Katy E. Magee, MA, Terrina Vail

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