CBT For Addiction

Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Outpatient Behavioral Health At Epiphany Wellness

CBT for addiction is a form of talk therapy that aims to help individuals overcome addiction by changing negative and self-defeating patterns of thinking and behavior, with the overarching goal of relapse prevention.

This form of therapy can be used to treat a variety of mental health disorders, including alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, and stimulant use disorder. CBT is typically conducted in a one-on-one or group setting and involves a structured, short-term treatment plan.

What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Addiction?

CBT for addiction is a form of talk therapy that aims to help individuals overcome addiction by changing negative and self-defeating patterns of thinking and behavior, with the overarching goal of relapse prevention.

This form of therapy can be used to treat a variety of mental health disorders, including alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, and stimulant use disorder. CBT is typically conducted in a one-on-one or group setting and involves a structured, short-term treatment plan. By venturing into different cognitive techniques such as Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), you can gain a new perspective and approach toward your thoughts and behaviors.

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CBT Treatment Information

How Does CBT Work in a Treatment Program?

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When you are admitted to a treatment program for a substance use disorder or co-occurring disorder, part of your individualized recovery plan may include CBT.

CBT works by helping individuals to identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to addiction. CBT in recovery typically involves several steps, including:

  • Assessment: A dedicated cognitive behavioral therapist works with the client to identify their specific triggers, behaviors, and thought patterns that contribute to their addiction.
  • Goal setting: The client and therapist work together to establish clear goals for therapy, such as reducing substance use, increasing motivation for change, and developing new coping strategies.
  • Cognitive restructuring: With cognitive restructuring, individuals are encouraged to challenge negative thoughts and impulses and replace them with more positive, adaptive ones.
  • Behavioral activations: The therapist helps the individual to develop new behaviors and habits that promote recovery.
  • Skill development: The therapist teaches the individual practical coping skills and strategies to manage cravings, triggers, and other challenges that may arise during recovery.

The aim of  CBT therapy for addiction is to equip the client with effective strategies for preventing and managing relapse. Each of these steps contributes to the end-goal of long-term recovery.

The number of sessions and the specific approach used may vary depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of their addiction. Following detox, CBT may be used in several levels of care, including during partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and dual diagnosis programs.

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Why Is CBT Effective for Addiction?

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is effective for addiction for several reasons.

CBT for addiction helps individuals to identify and challenge the negative thoughts and beliefs about the self that lead to substance abuse and replace them with healthier and more constructive ones, as well as teaches individuals practical skills and coping strategies to manage the challenges of recovery. CBT focuses on building specific skills, such as problem-solving, communication, and stress-management, that are essential for achieving and maintaining sobriety.

For many years, CBT has been considered the Gold Standard of addiction therapies. It is supported by a wealth of scientific research[1], which has consistently demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing substance use in those in recovery. This research provides strong evidence for the efficacy of CBT for substance use and helps to support its continued use as a treatment approach.

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How Long Does CBT Take to Work?

The length of time it takes for CBT to work can vary depending on a number of factors, including the individual’s specific needs and the severity and duration of the addiction.

Generally speaking, CBT is designed to be a short-term treatment approach, meaning that it is typically completed in a set number of sessions. However, the number of sessions needed can vary depending on the individual and the specific goals of therapy. Research has shown that CBT for addiction can be effective even in a relatively short period of time.[2]

Where Can I Find CBT  For Addiction?

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an often-used, evidence-based psychotherapy for addiction, and the large majority of addiction treatment centers will offer some form of this therapy as part of an individualized recovery plan.

At Epiphany Wellness, CBT is one of our core treatment approaches for our clients who are working towards overcoming substance use disorders and we have two locations in New Jersey and Tennessee.

Keep in mind that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is only part of holistic, effective treatment. It is important that the recovery center you choose incorporates a multitude of modalities and other types of therapy into your treatment plan.

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Drug Addiction in NJ & TN. Contact us

Let Us Be the Stepping Stone for the Beginning of Your Journey

You don’t have to struggle with a drug or alcohol addiction alone. We’re here to accompany you on your journey every step of the way.

If you or a loved one is experiencing an alcohol or drug addiction, substance abuse treatment can help. Call and speak with a member of our team to learn more about our live saving interventions.

You deserve healing. You deserve help. Start with the addiction treatment programs at Epiphany Wellness.

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Frequently Asked Questions About CBT for Addiction

What are some common CBT techniques used for addiction?

Common CBT techniques used for addiction include identifying and challenging negative thoughts, developing coping strategies, setting goals for behavior change, and practicing relaxation and mindfulness exercises.

How long does CBT for addiction usually last?

The length of CBT for addiction can vary depending on the individual and their specific needs. However, many CBT programs for addiction are structured to last for 12 to 16 weeks. Some individuals may continue with CBT for a longer period of time as a way to maintain their recovery.

Is CBT for addiction only for people with severe addictions?

No, CBT for addiction can be helpful for individuals with a range of addiction severity levels, from mild to severe. CBT can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.

Can CBT for addiction be done in a group setting?

As well as individual therapy sessions, CBT can also be conducted in a group setting. Group therapy can be particularly effective for individuals who benefit from the support of peers who are facing similar challenges. At Epiphany Wellness, we believe in implementing a combination of individual and group therapies to ensure your treatment is holistic.

Is CBT covered by insurance?

Most major insurance plans will cover drug rehab and other addiction treatment options. During your initial consultation with our team, we will confirm your coverage with your provider.

What is the role of the therapist in CBT for addiction?

The role of the therapist in CBT for drug abuse is to guide the individual through the therapy process, provide support, and help them develop the skills and strategies they need to achieve their goals. The therapist may also help the individual develop a relapse prevention plan to manage triggers and maintain recovery.

What is the difference between CBT and other forms of therapy for addiction?

CBT is a specific form of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, while other forms of therapy for addiction may have different goals and approaches. For example, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a form of therapy that focuses on managing emotions and relationships, while motivational interviewing (MI) is a form of therapy that focuses on increasing motivation for behavior change.

Can CBT be used to treat other mental health issues besides addiction?

CBT is a widely used form of therapy that can be effective for a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. CBT can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.

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What’s the difference between DBT and CBT for addictions?

CBT and DBT are two distinct therapeutic approaches that can be used to treat addiction, but they differ in focus and techniques.

CBT takes a goal-oriented approach that focuses on helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to addiction. CBT typically involves identifying and challenging irrational beliefs, developing coping strategies to manage triggers and cravings, and developing relapse prevention skills. CBT can be delivered in both individual and group settings.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a form of therapy that combines elements of CBT with mindfulness and acceptance-based techniques. DBT is often used to treat individuals with complex emotional dysregulation, self-harm behaviors, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). DBT can help individuals to manage intense emotions and develop coping skills to reduce self-destructive behaviors. DBT is typically delivered in a group setting and includes components such as mindfulness training, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

While both CBT and DBT can be effective modalities, the best choice for you will depend on individual factors such as the severity and complexity of the addiction, co-occurring mental health conditions, and personal preferences.

Sources

[1]McHugh, R. K., Hearon, B. A., & Otto, M. W. (2010, September). Cognitive behavioral therapy for Substance Use Disorders. The Psychiatric clinics of North America. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2897895

[2]Carroll, K. M., & Kiluk, B. D. (2017, December). Cognitive behavioral interventions for alcohol and drug use disorders: Through the stage model and back again. Psychology of addictive behaviors : journal of the Society of Psychologists in Addictive Behaviors. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5714654/