According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) differs from other therapy forms because the patient and therapist actively work together to set and accomplish goals for recovery.
This research-based treatment helps individuals become more aware of negative emotions and thought patterns. As a result, stressful situations can be processed and managed in a much more effective and positive way. There are many cases where CBT has been shown to be most effective when combined with other treatment methods or medications.
One of the many things learned during CBT sessions is the realization that many adverse decisions, such as fueling a substance use disorder or other addictive behaviors, are not rational or logical actions.
This therapy is an excellent addition to an individual’s drug addiction treatment plan because of the wide variety of issues that can be addressed. Since CBT treatment programs are specific and structured, rehab centers typically recommend fewer sessions than other types of therapy.
CBT is known to help individuals struggling with challenging emotional issues such as:
Coping with the loss of a close friend or family member
Managing chronic physical or psychological symptoms
Preventing relapse of mental health conditions
Treating mental illness without medications
Recognizing and controlling specific emotions
Overcoming abuse-related emotional trauma
Developing coping skills for stressful life situations
Resolving relationship issues and learning communication skills
This therapy has also been an effective form of treatment for those who want to lessen the burdens of their mental health disorders. Some of the mental health conditions CBT is frequently recommended to treat include:
Eating disorders
Substance abuse disorders
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Anxiety disorders
Schizophrenia
Sleeping disorders
Bipolar disorder
Phobias
Depression
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a research-based treatment that has proven highly effective in addressing drug and alcohol addictions, as well as specific diagnosed mental health conditions. Individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction often experience negative thoughts and behaviors. If these patterns go unrecognized, they can quickly become harmful. Treatments such as CBT are essential for identifying, challenging, and ultimately changing these negative influences, helping individuals achieve lasting recovery.
CBT is very well structured. Few other therapies are as problem-focused, goal-directed, and present-oriented. The strong foundation and organization of this treatment provide a vast number of benefits, most notably including:
Therapy sessions customized to the patient’s needs, available in both group and individual settings
Coaching and support to develop and implement coping strategies for lifelong use
A comfortable setting to build healthy relationships with therapists and work toward collective goals
Methods to explore behavior and thought patterns that may lead to self-harming or destructive behaviors
Many people do their own research and decide independently to begin treatment in the form of CBT. Recommendations from doctors are also a common reason why people choose to explore this form of treatment. Getting started with this therapy is a nearly effortless and painless process. The three main steps to get started include:
Get a referral from your doctor, health care provider, family member, or trusted friends. Many employers offer counseling services and referrals through employee assistance programs (EAPs). You can also find a therapist on your own.
Find out what type of coverage your insurance provider offers for psychotherapy treatment. There are many different options to receive treatment, including CBT.
To ensure the best possible outcomes, think about specific issues you would like to improve. While you can identify these with your therapist, considering them beforehand may provide a more accurate and useful starting point.