Why Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Widely Addiction Recovery Centers
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT, is one of the most popular and commonly used therapies in addiction recovery. That’s because cognitive behavioral therapy is so effective in helping people overcome addiction in many ways.
It helps change negative thought patterns and teaches people to cope with difficult emotions. CBT can also help people learn new coping skills and ways to deal with stress.
So, if you’re considering entering into addiction treatment in an addiction recovery center, you’ll likely be offered CBT as one of the main therapies. Here’s a look at some of the key benefits of CBT in addiction recovery.
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What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on helping people to change their thoughts and behaviors. CBT specifically focuses on the relationship between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s founded on the principles that our thoughts influence our emotions and behaviors. Therefore, if we can learn to change our thoughts, we can also change our emotions and behaviors.
How Does it Work?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is typically offered in individual or group therapy sessions. In CBT, you’ll work with a therapist to identify your negative thought patterns and behaviors. Once you’ve identified these, you’ll work on changing them. It may involve learning new coping skills, practicing relaxation techniques, and anything else that will help you to change your thoughts and behaviors.
CBT is a short-term therapy, typically offered for 10-12 weeks. However, some people may need to continue therapy for longer periods.
Benefits of CBT in Addiction Recovery
1. Helps People to Change their Negative Thought Patterns
Addiction recovery requires making several lifestyle changes, and part of that process is learning how to think differently about drug rehab and alcohol. Addiction is linked to negative emotions like shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. CBT can help people change these negative thought patterns and learn to see themselves in a more positive light.
2. Teaches People How to Cope with Difficult Emotions
When people are in early recovery, they often have to deal with many difficult emotions. For example, they may be dealing with grief over the loss of their addiction and anxiety and depression. CBT can help people to cope with these emotions healthily. It teaches people how to identify their emotions and constructively deal with them.
3. CBT Can Help People Learn New Coping Skills
One of the most important things that people in addiction recovery need to learn is how to deal with stress. Stress is a major trigger for relapse, so it’s important to find healthy ways to cope. CBT can help people learn new coping skills and ways to deal with stress. As a result, it can be a valuable tool in preventing relapse.
So, Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Ideal for You?
Simply put, it’s a type of talk therapy that helps people identify and change the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their addiction. CBT is one of the most effective treatments for addiction recovery, so it’s used in so many rehab centers today.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, consider seeking a therapist specializing in CBT. It could be the difference between success and relapse.