Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) for Addiction
How MET helps people resolve ambivalence about change and build intrinsic motivation for recovery at Keystone Health Group.
Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) is a client-centered, directive counseling approach designed to help people resolve ambivalence about changing their substance use and build intrinsic motivation for recovery. MET is based on motivational interviewing (MI) — a communication style developed by William Miller and Stephen Rollnick — and has been shown to be particularly effective in the early stages of treatment when ambivalence about change is highest.
The Spirit of Motivational Interviewing
MET is grounded in the spirit of motivational interviewing: collaboration (working with the client rather than confronting them), evocation (drawing out the client's own motivations for change rather than imposing external ones), and autonomy (respecting the client's right to make their own decisions). This approach is fundamentally different from traditional confrontational approaches to addiction treatment.
The Stages of Change Model
MET is often used in conjunction with the transtheoretical model (stages of change), which describes the process of behavior change as moving through stages: precontemplation (not yet considering change), contemplation (ambivalent about change), preparation (planning to change), action (actively changing), and maintenance (sustaining change). MET is particularly effective in the contemplation and preparation stages.
MET Techniques
Key MET techniques include: open-ended questions (inviting elaboration), affirmations (recognizing strengths and efforts), reflective listening (demonstrating understanding), summaries (linking and reinforcing what has been said), and eliciting change talk (drawing out the client's own arguments for change). MET avoids argumentation, confrontation, and unsolicited advice.
Signs & Symptoms of Addiction
Our Treatment Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MET the same as motivational interviewing?
MET is a structured, time-limited therapy based on motivational interviewing principles. Motivational interviewing is a broader communication style that can be used throughout treatment. MET typically involves 2–4 structured sessions with personalized feedback.
Is MET effective for people who don't want treatment?
Yes. MET is particularly effective for people who are ambivalent about treatment or who have been pressured into treatment by family, employers, or the legal system. It helps people find their own reasons for change rather than responding to external pressure.
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