Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) is a counseling approach that helps individuals overcome ambivalence and build motivation to make positive changes in their behavior.

 

It is based on the principles of motivational interviewing and focuses on enhancing a person's intrinsic motivation to change. MET is often used in the context of substance abuse treatment, but it can be applied to a variety of behavioral and psychological issues.

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Here are some key aspects of MET:

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1. Empathy and Understanding: MET emphasizes a non-judgmental and empathetic approach, where the therapist actively listens and seeks to understand the client's perspective. This helps build a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship.

2. Motivation Assessment: The therapist helps the client explore and articulate their personal goals, values, and reasons for change. This process involves assessing the client's readiness to change and identifying any ambivalence they may have about making changes.

3. Developing Discrepancy: MET aims to create a cognitive dissonance between the client's current behaviors and their personal values or goals. By highlighting the discrepancies, the therapist encourages the client to recognize the need for change.

4. Supporting Self-Efficacy: The therapist helps the client build confidence in their ability to make changes and achieve their goals. This involves reinforcing the client's strengths and past successes.

5. Avoiding Confrontation: MET avoids confrontational or adversarial approaches. Instead, the therapist works collaboratively with the client, respecting their autonomy and empowering them to make their own decisions.

 

MET typically involves a limited number of sessions, during which the therapist uses specific techniques to enhance motivation and facilitate change. These techniques include open-ended questions, reflective listening, affirmations, and summarizing.

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Overall, MET is a client-centered and goal-oriented therapy that helps individuals harness their own motivation to make positive and lasting changes in their lives.