Is CBT Therapy for Substance Abuse the Right Choice For Me?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a powerful and popular therapy technique used in nearly every substance abuse treatment program. It has been a proven and effective therapy used to treat anxiety and depression, OCD, and various types of addiction for decades. Not usually a stand-alone treatment, CBT is generally accompanied by individual or group counseling sessions, addiction education, and 12-Step peer support.

Why has CBT become the gold-standard of psychosocial treatments for substance abuse? It gets to the root cause of dangerous behaviors, in this case, substance abuse or misuse, by bringing focus to the thought patterns and emotions that fuel addiction. By identifying the triggers and related feelings that affect our thoughts and behaviors, we can address some of the deeper issues that lead us to misuse addictive substances.

Many times, without help, we are unable to sort out our conscious and unconscious thoughts, deal with negative emotions, and prevent them all from leading to self-destructive actions. This is where CBT can make a life-changing impact. By learning about the benefits of CBT therapy for substance abuse, you may gain some insights that make a lasting difference for you.

How Does CBT Therapy for Substance Abuse Make a Difference?

It is important to understand how CBT may impact you during your recovery process. If you have doubts about the effectiveness of CBT, here are some things to consider:

CBT is Collaborative

CBT is collaborative and relies on the establishment of a trusting counselor-client relationship. This is key to success in treatment, as you must step outside your comfort zone to change deeply-ingrained behaviors. Finding a substance abuse treatment center where the licensed staff members are certified and experienced in applying CBT to substance abuse will help you get the most out of this powerful therapy.

CBT Teaches You a Variety of Coping Skills

CBT works to change the way our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and influence each other. Another purpose of CBT is to help you stock a toolbox with healthy coping strategies to replace negative and dangerous ones like misusing substances. Psychologists and licensed addiction counselors are trained to teach clients a variety of ways to cope with negative feelings and difficult situations.

CBT Works Well with Other Interventions

Though CBT alone may work for some people, some may require a more comprehensive program to achieve lasting recovery. An addiction rehab program that is designed to modify destructive behaviors, encourage neuroplastic healing, support healthy lifestyles, and teach self-care offers a greater chance of preparing you for long-term success. CBT also works well with complementary interventions like medication-assisted treatment.

CBT is Versatile and Goal-Oriented

CBT is versatile enough to be useful in a variety of rehab programs: inpatient, outpatient, and aftercare. Real progress can often be made in as few as 12 sessions. Since CBT is goal-oriented, you will be able to mark your progress as you gain confidence and motivation to sustain sobriety for the long-term.

CBT Targets Dual Diagnoses

Because CBT is so effective for many psychological conditions, it is particularly useful for people with dual diagnoses. If you are struggling with addiction and another psychological challenge, in the right setting, CBT can help you to heal from the traumas that may have contributed to your substance abuse as it teaches you healthier coping strategies to replace destructive responses.

Why CBT Could be a Gamechanger for You

There is a reason that CBT is an integral part of nearly every substance abuse rehab program—it works. The key is to find a center that employs this powerful therapy in a way that works for you. Do your research online, make some phone calls, and have your list of questions ready. When you find a treatment center that resonates with you, sparks your interest, and gives you hope, follow up with them. By getting to your closely-held traumas, stresses, and beliefs, you can begin to reorder the thought patterns that guide your destructive behaviors. Only by facing these challenges head-on can you make real and sustainable changes that lead you to lasting recovery.