How does motivational enhancement therapy (MET) differ from motivational interviewing?

Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) is a structured, evidence-based approach that incorporates specific assessment tools and follow-up sessions to facilitate a client’s motivation to change. This framework is designed to help clients explore and resolve ambivalence regarding their substance use and ultimately commit to making changes. The structured nature of MET allows practitioners to implement targeted strategies that enhance the client’s internal motivation, making the process more effective.

The structured assessments used in MET help identify the individual’s level of readiness for change, strengths, and areas that need improvement, which guides the therapeutic process. Follow-up sessions are essential as they provide ongoing support and help to reinforce the goals set during the initial therapy sessions, ensuring that progress is tracked and adjustments are made as necessary.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately portray the characteristics of MET. Unstructured discussions about feelings do not encapsulate the systematic approach utilized in MET, while the idea that it is primarily a group therapy technique overlooks its individual-focused intent. Additionally, while exploring a client’s past experiences may be part of the process, MET does not focus solely on the past; rather, it emphasizes the client’s present motivation and future goals.