Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) For Substance Use

Last Updated December 16, 2021

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to their problems. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected, and that by changing one aspect of this triangle, we can influence the others. This is available in group or individual modalities. This form of therapy is clinical and research-based that helps us learn unhealthy thought patterns. By changing our thought patterns, we are able to live healthier lives and make healthier choices.

In some cases, it is successful enough to avoid medications and further hospitalizations.

What Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help With?

This successful form of talk therapy is helpful for treating:

CBT Therapy Addresses The Hard Issues That Help Set You Free

It is important to understand that all therapies bring up difficult emotions within ourselves. For people who weren’t taught how to deal with these feelings, it can be difficult to cope. You may bring up unpleasant memories and experiences. You may feel distressed, incredibly sad, angry, or even fearful. You may want to scream, kick things, cry, or feel drained.

Remember, you are working with a skilled therapist who understands all of these feelings and responses. Part of CBT is learning coping skills to handle stressful situations. Your therapist will guide you through coping strategies in the heat of the moment so that you can train your brain to respond differently.

What Can You Expect From CBT?

When you engage in cognitive behavioral therapy, you will have the opportunity to understand your diagnosis. If you have spent a lot of time wondering why you do the things you do, you will finally get that answer. While some people stress over their mental health diagnosis, it can be very relieving to have it explained.

The second part of CBT is learning various techniques for treatment. You will learn coping, how to relax (there isn’t just one way!), resilience, and managing your stress. Although you have an understanding of your diagnosis, managing your symptoms is crucial in your recovery.

What Are The Steps In The CBT Process?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a goal-oriented approach. The therapist will find the root of a problem through the intake process. The following are the steps involved with CBT.

Problem Identification – there is often more than one problem discovered but each one is handled differently and separately. Since each person has differences in their diagnosis and life experiences, the therapy is altered based on needs. For group settings, the problems discussed are generalized to give each person a chance to practice what they learn and go in-depth in individual therapy.

Become aware of the thoughts about the problem – the hardest part of your diagnosis is stopping long enough to realize what you are thinking during the problem. Many people with mental health disorders are reactive to uncomfortable and scary situations. By focusing on what it is they are thinking, it gives them insight into their thought patterns and what is unhealthy.

Identify Negative Thinking – singling out those thoughts that are negative and detrimental to a person is important. Identifying negative thoughts also teaches individuals what is unhealthy versus what is. This leads to being able to change how we think about things and ourselves.
Reshape Negative Thoughts – every step leads to this moment. Reshaping how people think is vital to their mental health. When folks have a pattern of thinking, it becomes a part of a neural pathway, which is why people have patterned thinking. Changing a negative thought takes a lot of work, but once the neural pathway is changed, it sticks with the individual.

Find Help Through Our CBT Program

If you want to know if our cognitive behavioral therapy program is right for you, call us today. Our trained staff can discuss with you what our program entails and if you are the right fit. Don’t try coping alone anymore, we are here to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Rehab

How Long Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy last?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy generally lasts, anywhere from 5-20 sessions on average but can continue much longer and is typically used all the way through outpatient treatment. Since each person is different, there are factors that play a part in how many sessions are necessary. These factors include:

Type of mental health disorder
Severity of symptoms
Patient progress
Family support or lack of support
Stress levels during therapy

How does CBT work in a rehab setting?

In a rehab setting, CBT is typically used as part of a larger treatment plan to help individuals overcome addiction and other mental health issues. It may be used in individual therapy sessions or in group therapy sessions, and may be combined with other therapies such as medication, 12-step programs, and holistic approaches. During CBT sessions, a therapist will work with the individual to identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to their problems, and will help them develop coping strategies and skills to change these patterns and behaviors. The therapist may also assign homework, such as keeping a journal or practicing specific skills between sessions, to help the individual practice and reinforce the skills they are learning.

What are some common goals of CBT in rehab?

Some common goals of CBT in rehab include:

Identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs that are contributing to problematic behaviors
Developing new coping strategies for managing stress and difficult emotions
Building skills for managing cravings and avoiding relapse
Improving communication and problem-solving skills
Improving self-esteem and self-worth
Increasing motivation and engagement in treatment

Is CBT effective in treating addiction and other mental health issues?

CBT has been shown to be effective in treating a range of mental health issues, including addiction. Research has consistently demonstrated that CBT can help individuals with substance use disorders reduce their substance use, improve their overall functioning, and reduce the risk of relapse. It can also be effective in treating co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

How long does CBT treatment typically last in rehab?

The length of CBT treatment in rehab can vary depending on the individual's needs and goals. Some individuals may benefit from a shorter course of treatment, while others may need longer-term treatment. In general, CBT treatment in rehab may last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the individual's progress and needs.

Are there any potential risks or drawbacks to CBT in rehab?

CBT is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option, and it has few known risks or drawbacks. However, like any form of therapy, it may not be the right fit for everyone. Some individuals may find it difficult to engage in the process or may struggle to identify and change their negative thought patterns and behaviors. In these cases, it may be helpful to try a different therapy or to incorporate other interventions into treatment.

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Medical Advice Disclaimer

Magnified Health Systems aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

This content is verified and moderated by Dr. Brendan Bickley

Dr. Bickley graduated from U.C. Irvine with honors: Phi Beta Kappa, Golden Key International Honor Society, Cum Laude. He has been featured on national radio and print media. He is also a frequent lecturer at National Conferences. He holds an A.S. degree in Drug & Alcohol Studies, and two B.A. degrees in Criminology & Psychology, and masters and doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. He is a licensed California Drug & Alcohol Counselor Level II, a licensed Clinical Supervisor and is certified in treating Eating Disorders.