Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps people change their thinking and behavior. CBT is a widely used and evidence-based treatment for many mental health conditions, including addiction.
CBT for addiction treatment focuses on helping people to:
- Identify and manage triggers that can lead to drinking
- Address negative thoughts and emotions that can lead to drinking
- Develop coping and problem-solving skills
- Improve communication and relationship skills
CBT can be done in individual or group settings, and it typically lasts for 12 weeks or more. Some people may need longer-term treatment, depending on the severity of their addiction.
The Process: How Does CBT Work for Addiction?
CBT for addiction treatment is usually a process of 12 weekly sessions. During each session, you will work with a therapist to:
- Identify and understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are related to your drinking
- Challenge and change any negative or distorted thinking patterns
- Practice using new coping and problem-solving skills
- Set goals for changing your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
CBT typically starts with an initial assessment to help the therapist better understand your unique situation. From there, the therapist will work with you to identify your goals for treatment. Together, you will develop a plan to help you reach those goals.
Each session will focus on a different topic, such as triggers, cravings, stress management, and communication skills. The therapist will provide you with tools and resources to help you practice using these new skills in your daily life.
As you progress in treatment, the therapist will help you slowly increase the difficulty of the skills you are learning. For example, you may start by practicing coping with triggers in a safe and controlled environment, such as in the therapist’s office. As you get better at using the skills you’ve learned, you will be able to practice them in more challenging situations, such as when you are out with friends or at a party.
The goal of CBT is to help you develop long-lasting skills that can help you manage your addiction and live a sober, healthy life.
Benefits of CBT for Addiction Treatment
CBT is an effective treatment for alcohol addiction and has been shown to help people reduce their drinking, abstain from drinking, and prevent relapse.
CBT can also help to:
- Improve communication and relationship skills
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve coping skills
- Increase self-esteem and confidence
- Enhance motivation to change
Research has shown that CBT is an effective treatment for alcohol addiction. In one study, people who received CBT were more likely to stay abstinent from alcohol at follow-up than those who did not receive CBT.
What is Detoxification?
Detoxification, also known as detox, is the first step in most addiction treatment programs. Detox is a process of letting your body rid itself of the drugs or alcohol you’ve been using.
While detox can be an important and necessary step in addiction treatment, it is not a treatment itself. Detox should always be done under the supervision of a medical professional, such as a doctor or nurse.
Detox can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, so it’s important to have someone there to help you through it. The symptoms of withdrawal can vary depending on the substance you’ve been using.
The detox process can last for a few days to a week or more. Once you’ve detoxed from the substance, you will be able to start other forms of treatment, such as CBT.
What is Intensive Outpatient Treatment?
Intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) is a type of treatment that provides therapy and support while allowing you to live at home and continue with your daily life. IOP can be a good option for people who have completed detox and residential treatment but still need help to stay sober.
IOP usually consists of group and individual therapy sessions 3-5 days per week, for 3-5 hours per day. During these sessions, you will work with a therapist to:
- Identify thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are related to your drinking
- Challenge and change any negative or distorted thinking patterns
- Practice using new coping and problem-solving skills
- Set goals for changing your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
- Develop a plan for maintaining sobriety after treatment
IOP can last for a few weeks to several months, depending on your needs.
After completing IOP, you may transition to a less intensive level of care, such as individual therapy or a 12-step program. Or you may be discharged from treatment altogether.
CBT is just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan for alcohol addiction. Treatment should also include medical detoxification and participation in a 12-step program or other support groups. With treatment, people with alcohol addiction can recover and live healthy, productive lives.
