CBT Techniques for Treating Addiction

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used and effective form of therapy for those recovering from addiction and mental illness. It focuses on changing thoughts and beliefs to help modify behavior that leads to substance use. CBT can be used alone or in combination with medications, and relaxation techniques may vary from person to person. The Motivational Interviewing (MI) model is used as a stand-alone intervention and in combination with other treatment strategies for Substance Use Disorders (SUD).

This type of sensitivity can allow therapists to get the most out of treatment with patients who are more motivated, while keeping patients less motivated in treatment until they begin to feel more ambitious in treating their problem. At the beginning of considering treatment, the motivation for treatment and the likelihood of treatment adherence should be considered. Jeffrey's mission is to educate and inform the public about addiction issues and to help those in need of treatment find the best option for them. Many counselors and addiction specialists use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat alcohol and drug addiction.

CBT is a flexible and adaptable treatment tool that has been successfully used in addiction programs around the world. In addition to the treatment techniques described above, several novel approaches are being studied to improve behavioral treatments for substance use disorders. For example, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), together with the Center for Technology Transfer for Addiction (ATTC) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), instituted a Combination Initiative in 2001 to help combine the knowledge and skills of researchers, policy makers and outreach programs to help develop and apply evidence-based treatments that can be used in community settings. The study measured the difference in the severity of withdrawal and depression between standard treatment for residential substance use disorder and residential treatment for substance use disorder plus a CBT called Building Recovery by Improving Goals, Habits, and Thoughts (BRIGHT).

There are many challenges that can arise in the treatment of substance use disorders that can serve as barriers to successful treatment. It may be helpful to know this type of treatment and some of the cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques doctors use when you are looking for treatment options for yourself or a loved one. Of course, there are some patients who are in pre-trial detention for treatment and who would otherwise not seek treatment on their own. However, CBT is an effective tool that can help those suffering from addiction make positive changes in their lives.