Therapies can be broadly classified as “talk therapy” or “action therapy.” So, what is moral reconation therapy? Moral reconation therapy (MRT) is the latter; it is a cognitive-behavioral intervention that helps people to change their thinking and behavior.
In this therapy, people are taught how to think about and react to situations in more positive and productive ways. They learn how to identify thoughts and behaviors that are harmful or counterproductive, and they work on changing these patterns.
Moral reconation therapy has shown to be an effective treatment for substance abuse and other problems, such as anger management, anxiety, and depression. It is also sometimes used as a court-ordered treatment for people who have been convicted of crimes. Moral reconation therapy may be a good option if you are struggling with any of these issues.
What Is Moral Reconation Therapy?
Moral reconation therapy (MRT) is a cognitive-behavioral intervention that helps people change their thinking and behavior. In this therapy, people are taught how to think about and react to situations in more positive and productive ways. They discover how to spot harmful or counterproductive thoughts and behaviors and work on altering them.
MRT takes the form of group and individual counseling sessions. The group sessions usually last two hours and are held weekly. During these sessions, people learn about the stages of change and how to apply them to their lives. They also work on identifying their thoughts and behaviors that need to be changed.
The individual counseling sessions are typically 30 minutes to an hour and are held once a week or every other week. During these sessions, people work on specific issues they are struggling with.
MRT started as a behavioral treatment for alcoholism. Still, it has since been effective for treating various other problems, such as anger management, anxiety, and depression. Similar to CBT, MRT has also been effective in preventing relapse. It utilizes various techniques, such as education, skill-building, and cognitive restructuring.
History Of MRT (Moral Reconation Therapy)
This treatment was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Gregory Jantz and Dr. Jack Fincham. It is based on the theory of moral development, which psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg first proposed. This theory suggests that people go through different stages of moral development as they grow and mature.
The first stage, the preconventional stage, is characterized by a focus on self-interest. In this stage, people generally only consider their own needs and wants. The second stage, known as the conventional stage, is characterized by focusing on following rules and doing what is expected of them. In this stage, people begin to consider the needs of others and think about how their actions will affect others. The third and final stage, known as the post-conventional stage, is characterized by a focus on internalized moral principles. In this stage, people make decisions based on their values and beliefs rather than what society expects.
MRT is based on the idea that people can move through these stages of moral development and that this process can be facilitated by therapy. The goal of MRT is to help people move from the preconventional stage to the post-conventional stage. Here are some organizations where you can find MRT:
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How MRT (Moral Reconation Therapy) Works
The first step in MRT is to assess where the person is at in terms of their moral development. This is done through a series of tests and interviews. Once the therapist understands the person’s moral development stage, they can work on helping the person move to the next stage.
This is done through education, skill-building, and cognitive restructuring. In the education portion, people are taught about the different stages of moral development and the characteristics associated with each stage. They learn about how people move through these stages and what factors can influence this process.
In the skill-building portion, people learn how to identify and change thoughts and behaviors that are harmful or counterproductive. They learn how to manage their emotions and impulses and practice making better decisions.
In the cognitive restructuring portion, people work on changing how they think about themselves and the world around them. They learn how to challenge negative or distorted beliefs and develop a more positive worldview.
MRT is typically done in group sessions but can also be done in individual counseling sessions. Group sessions are typically held once a week for two hours and last for 12 weeks. Individual counseling sessions are typically 30 minutes to an hour and are held once a week or every other week.
During the group sessions, people work on specific issues they are struggling with. They also learn about the different stages of moral development and how to apply these concepts to their own lives. In addition, they share their experiences and insights with the other members of the group.
The individual counseling sessions provide a chance for people to discuss their progress and any challenges they are facing. These sessions also allow people to ask questions and get support from the therapist.
MRT is typically done with other forms of treatment, such as substance abuse treatment, anger management, or mental health counseling.
What The Research Says
Research on MRT is limited, but there is some evidence that it can be helpful for some people. A 2009 study found that MRT was associated with reduced recidivism rates among juvenile offenders. A 2014 study found that MRT was associated with drug use and criminal activity reductions among adult offenders.
MRT is not for everyone; it is important to talk to a therapist to see if it is right for you. MRT is a commitment that requires time and effort to see results.
Is It Possible To Take MRT online?
Yes, it is possible to take the MRT online. Several online courses offer MRT training. These courses typically include the same components as in-person MRT courses, such as education, skill-building, and cognitive restructuring. However, they may be delivered in a different format, such as through video lectures or written materials.
Before enrolling in an online MRT course, it is important to ensure that a reputable organization accredits it. In addition, you should check to see if a qualified instructor teaches the course. You may also want to read the course reviews to see what other people have said about it.
If you are interested in taking MRT online, you can search for accredited courses on the website of the International Association of Moral Education (IAME).
Wrapping Up
MRT may be worth considering if you are struggling with addiction or criminal activity. However, it is important to remember that MRT is just one part of treatment and is not a cure-all. To make lasting changes, you will need to address the underlying causes of your problems. MRT can be a helpful tool for some people, but it is not right for everyone. If you are considering MRT, talk to a therapist to see if it is right for you.
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