What is moral reconation therapy?
One of the systematic treatment strategies that have proven to be extremely effective in the field of addiction treatment and recovery is moral reconation therapy, or MRT as it is usually referred to. MRT decreases recidivism among adult and juvenile criminal offenders especially where substance abuse and alcohol addiction is concerned. The cognitive behavioral approach of moral reconation therapy alcohol treatment combines several psychological elements in order to address ego, moral, positive, and social behavioral growth. It accomplishes this by increasing the individual’s ability to reason morally.
The MRT structure
From a traditional standpoint, MRT takes the form of individual and group counseling by using structured group exercises in conjunction with prescribed homework assignments. There is also an MRT workbook that is structured around 16 defined and objective steps or study units. These steps focus on 7 basic treatment formats including:
- confrontation of attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs
- decrease in hedonistic behavior
- developing a higher tolerance for frustration
- developing a higher stage of moral reasoning
- enhancing one’s self-concept
- positive identity formation
- reinforcing positive behavior and personal habits
Individuals meet in groups once or twice a week and are normally able to complete the 16 steps a 3 to 6 month period when they are engaged in an out-patient MRT format.
Advantages of moral reconation therapy
When you compare MRT to the more conventional therapies, you will quickly discover that the primary advantage is that it is more proactive in nature than other therapies. Clients are not as prone to sit passively during counseling sessions but are required to be involved in communicative activities that lead to development of self confidence. Instead, they will actively participate in drills, self-discovery and self-exploration, and other therapy exercises. In addition to the above, clients are provided with a number of recovery tools including:
- educational lectures and materials
- group and individual counseling
- films that deal with MRT
- several life skills workshops
The bottom line is that focusing on the psychological consequences of substance addiction is just as important as focusing on the emotional, physical, and spiritual levels as well. With such specific therapies to help individuals with addictions, there is a high rate of success of people living sober and without alcohol.
Help is available 24/7/365
At the Treatment 4 Alcohol addiction referral site, we are always here to help you or a loved one. We can find the right addiction treatment and recovery center with a moral reconation therapy alcohol treatment program that best targets your personal needs. If you would like more information regarding our website or have any further questions regarding MRT, we will be more than happy to assist you. Call us at the toll-free phone number above to find a alcohol treatment program that’s right for you.