The Mind

In addition to focusing on the physical and spiritual aspects of addiction, it is of the utmost importance that we place great emphasis on the mind.  Many addicts who have spent years in denial, justifications and manipulations to continue their lifestyles have altered their way of thinking.  For some their entire existence revolves around the use of drugs or alcohol.  For others it is a hidden enhancement to their lives…a secret.  Others still consider it the social norm no matter how much damage it may be causing themselves or their loved ones.  If someone is to break free of the trap caused by drug addiction, one has to change the way he thinks.

MRT (Moral Reconation Therapy)

As the core of each clients program we utilize the MRT cognitive therapeutic approach.  First developed in 1985 by Dr. Gregory Little & Dr. Kenneth Robinson, it was a long-term approach focused on changing the criminal thought processes of convicted felons.  Highly regarded, it quickly has become the program of choice in over 40 states, 100's of drug court programs and prison systems. 

Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) is a systematic treatment strategy that seeks to decrease recidivism among juvenile and adult criminal and substance abuse offenders by increasing moral reasoning. Its cognitive-behavioral approach combines elements from a variety of psychological traditions to progressively address ego, social, moral, and positive behavioral growth. Traditionally, MRT takes the form of group and individual counseling using structured group exercises and prescribed homework assignments. The MRT workbook is structured around 16 objectively defined steps (units) focusing on seven basic treatment issues: confrontation of beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors; assessment of current relationships; reinforcement of positive behavior and habits; positive identity formation; enhancement of self-concept; decrease in hedonism and development of frustration tolerance; and development of higher stages of moral reasoning. Under normal outpatient MRT Therapy, participants meet in groups once or twice weekly and can complete all steps of the MRT program in a minimum of 3 to 6 months.

Adapted to focus on the thought processes involved in addictions, A Sober Forever treatment program is the first residential drug and alcohol treatment facility to use MRT in such an intensive approach.  Normally utilized in an outpatient drug program or penal setting with 2 hours per week of MRT counseling, we have increased this amount to over 25 hours per week of MRT counseling, exercises and practical applications.    We feel that total immersion in changing the unhealthy thought processes that have been built over years is an excellent way to overcome addiction.   In addition to this, MRT is designed to be continued after completion of the program.

The distinct advantage of MRT over more conventional therapies is their proactive nature.  Our clients do not passively sit throughout the sessions, but rather are actively participating in drills, exercises, and self-exploration and discovery.  We need each client to be an active participant in their own recovery rather than a passive observer.

Group and Individual Counseling

For 8 hours per week, each client will participate in Group therapy sessions.  Guided by addictions counselors, these help the client to explore areas of their recovery that might be otherwise missed.  In addition, understanding the problems and solutions experienced by other clients can be extremely beneficial to the recovery process. 

In addition to group therapy, we have many counselors with different backgrounds in recovery.  Some of us have a focus in 12-step modalities, others are Christian faith-based,  some are cognitive, and we even have Buddhists and Spiritual Teachers available for counseling at various times throughout the client's recovery process.

Education, Lectures, Workshops and Films

For additional enhancement, our resident counselors as well as outside lecturers come in 5 days a week to provide addition education on various topics of addiction and the recovery process. 

Ideally, by completion of the program, the client not only gains a better understanding of his addiction and his old way of thinking, but has already begun to change the way that he views his life, his goals and how to overcome the obstacles that have been blocking him.  Freedom from active addiction becomes an actuality and life gains new purpose.