Moral Reconation Therapy in Charleston, SC

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has long been regarded as one of the most powerful therapeutic techniques to treat addiction. Moral reconation therapy, also known as MRT, is a specific type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on improving moral reasoning. The premise behind moral reconation therapy is that people who suffer from drug addiction are driven by their innate pleasure-seeking desires. These hedonistic urges, combined with the desire to avoid unpleasant feelings, override any concern for the well-being of others or for society’s rules. Through moral reconation therapy, individuals learn how to make more responsible decisions. Research proves that this form of therapy can reduce drug-seeking behavior as well as other negative behaviors.

Does It Work?

Moral reconation therapy has only been in use since the late 1980s, and its original applications focused on improving the moral reasoning levels of incarcerated individuals; however, research confirms that the treatment is effective for people struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. Over 78 studies have analyzed the effectiveness of MRT and revealed the following benefits:

. Boosts self-esteem
. Improves moral reasoning skills
. Teaches individuals healthy ways to express negative feelings
. Minimizes thrill-seeking urges

Understanding MRT

Drug and alcohol addiction can wreak havoc on many aspects of a person’s life–it harms their self-esteem and leads to choices that can damage their health, personal relationships and finances. MRT works to improve the self-esteem of participants by helping them identify goals and find their purpose in life. These positive changes have a ripple effect, resulting in improved self-care and more concern and compassion for others.

Moral therapy centers on the idea of honesty. Participants must learn how to be honest with themselves and with those around them. Like other forms of cognitive-behavioral therapy, MRT teaches participants to identify negative thought and behavior patterns and replace them with healthier ones. In therapy, participants take a close look at their beliefs and adjust the way they see the world; this soul-searching has a positive effect on personal values, which in turn improves social functioning.

A Step by Step Approach

MRT is organized into 16 units and is meant to be performed in a group setting. In therapy, participants conduct a self-assessment that touches on seven core concepts:

. Coming face-to-face with unhealthy attitudes and beliefs
. Evaluating personal relationships with friends and family
. Strengthening positive behaviors and habits
. Developing a positive self-identity
. Forming a good self-concept
. Increasing frustration tolerance
. Achieving a higher stage of moral reasoning

MRT Benefits

Moral reconation therapy can be helpful for a wide range of people, regardless of cognitive abilities or intelligence levels. This type of therapy doesn’t require strong reading skills, and it works with a variety of learning styles. In group therapy sessions, trained facilitators pose questions that can lead to powerful epiphanies. These awakenings can bring about real changes in beliefs, attitudes and behaviors.

MRT is an effective tool for motivating people in recovery and retaining them in treatment. Individuals who complete a full course of MRT are equipped with tools and techniques to help them maintain long-term recovery and enjoy an improved quality of life. Let Charleston Drug Treatment Centers be your ultimate recovery guide. Just give us a call today at (843) 480-9956 for more information.