Drug and alcohol treatment programs have mutually supportive elements to help a person move beyond addiction. Most begin with detoxification and continue with supportive rehab therapies and aftercare planning. All good treatment programs include an element of counseling, the most common being cognitive behavior therapy, or CBT. Knowing what is CBT can give you a clearer understanding of why you need it to begin a fresh path away from addiction.
What is CBT?
CBT or cognitive behavioral therapy is a goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that uses a hands-on approach to solving daily life problems. In the past, you turned to alcohol or a drug when life stress became overwhelming. During CBT sessions, you will learn how to change thinking or behavior patterns that led to your addiction. When your attitude and behavior can change, you can make better decisions about how to deal with problems. Whether financial or family issues are at stake, participating in this type of therapy can help to reshape your outlook. The focus is on beliefs, attitudes, and thoughts that once justified your addiction.
What is CBT Strategy for Addiction?
Typically, an addiction to drugs or alcohol happens because you become paralyzed with negative emotions. These emotions may stem from a painful memory or something that is currently not going right in your life. States of mind that often accompany these emotions can include:
- Fear
- Despair
- Loneliness
- Low self-esteem
- Self-loathing
- Self-blame
- Feelings of isolation
Sadly, addiction is destructive and defeating and is futile in alleviating these painful emotions. Self-medication with alcohol or drugs causes even more harm and negative feelings. Fortunately, cognitive behavioral therapy can give you the success you seek without destroying your life. CBT works to help you find clarity and confidence in your walk toward addiction recovery.
Do I Need Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Finding and maintaining a sober life can feel like a difficult journey. Comparing yourself to others is not good because every person’s journey is unique to their life, background, and experiences. While you participate in CBT, you might receive homework-type exercises to practice what you learn in real-time. This gives you a chance to let what you are learning to take hold in every-day life. Keeping a journal during this time is also helpful to chronicle your thoughts, behaviors, and perspectives. Journaling during CBT allows you to look back and see how far you have progressed. You may see how much stronger you are than when you first began. Maintaining a positive outlook and determined focus on getting better also helps you track unhealthy trends or patterns that may try to arise, leading you to relapse.
Take Control of Your Recovery
Therapy teaches you the skills necessary to overcome triggers, cravings and negative emotions that could threaten your sober recovery. You won’t be asking “what is CBT” because you’ll know that it has helped you get through addiction treatment. Serenity House Detox & Recovery can connect you with a therapist who will create safe, compassionate and personal sessions. If you are ready to start a new chapter, contact us today at 866-294-5306.
