Moral Reconation Therapy
MRT

Improving Thinking & Making Healthier Life Choices

At Mosaic Clinical Services, we use a variety of therapy solutions based on your unique situation. MRT is one of the many therapy methods we utilize on a regular basis. It was originally created for work with people struggling to overcome substance use and repeat criminal offenders.

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The Basics of MRT

MRT was originally developed in 1985 by Drs. Gregory Little and Kenneth Robinson in order to address substance abuse and provide treatment for criminal offenders with the goals of reducing risk for relapse and recidivism (repeated conviction/criminal behavior). In short, MRT was designed to make a difference for those people who find themselves stuck in a loop of recovery and relapse and those who are in and out of court. MRT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that takes a systematic approach to addressing disordered thinking, self-centered thinking, social ineptitudes, and lack of moral reasoning with the goal of achieving positive behavioral changes and individual growth. MRT is based in the belief that thoughts and attitudes influence individual behaviors. This form of therapy is designed to be specifically helpful for populations that are likely to show greater treatment resistance, including those struggling with addiction and repeat criminal offenders.

According to research conducted across several states, criminal justice systems, time spans, and age ranges, participation in MRT groups can reduce your risk of committing another crime or using drugs or alcohol by 15 to 20%.

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MRT Therapy Sessions

Therapy sessions are conducted using MRT in a group setting. Throughout the course of these group sessions, we’ll work through sixteen objective units that focus on improvement in seven basic areas:

1. Confronting current, problematic beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors

2. Reviewing and assessing current relationships

3. Reinforcing positive behaviors and habits

4. Developing a positive self-perception

5. Maintaining a positive self-identity

6. Increasing frustration tolerance

7. Achieving higher stages of moral reasoning

The goal of MRT therapy sessions is to help people change the attitudes and beliefs that allow them to make the same decision to engage in substance use or criminal behavior. MRT allows the development of the necessary skills to shift thoughts and behaviors away from being driven by instant personal gain, pleasure, or avoiding pain. Instead, MRT makes it possible for people to see how their behaviors

During group sessions, you’ll be asked to complete workbook assignments outside of each session. Then, you’ll bring them back to the group for approval. When participating in regular group sessions, MRT has proven to be a long-lasting solution that significantly reduces the risk for relapse and return to the criminal just system.

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Indications for MRT

There have been effective results shown through the use of MRT in a variety of situations, including:

• Stop returning to jail, prison, or the courtroom

• Reduced involvement with criminal justice systems

• Get and stay sober

• Enhanced purpose and improved motivation

• Decrease episodes of and likelihood for domestic violence

• Develop anger management skills

• Assistance with smoking cessation

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How do I Get Started with Mosaic Clinical Services?

If you’re ready to schedule an MRT session or you want to learn more, please contact one of our team members. We will be happy to speak with you about available counseling services and help you determine what your next steps should be.