Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Substance Use Disorder
- Last Modified: August 20, 2023
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 20.4 million adults in the United States battled a substance use disorder in the past year. Substance abuse knows no boundaries, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. However, effective treatment options can help individuals break free from the cycle of addiction and regain control over their lives.
When seeking treatment for substance use disorder, it is important to explore different approaches that address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Comprehensive treatment plans often incorporate a combination of therapies tailored to individual needs. While various treatment options exist, one evidence-based approach stands out for its effectiveness and long-term positive outcomes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective evidence-based therapy for substance use, that addresses the underlying factors contributing to substance use disorder.
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized type of psychotherapy designed to help individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance use disorder. It focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering individuals to identify and challenge harmful beliefs and develop healthier coping skills and strategies.
According to a study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology (2018), CBT has demonstrated significant effectiveness in treating substance use disorders, with long-term benefits in relapse prevention and improved overall well-being. While CBT has proven to be effective as a solitary monotherapy, it also has many benefits when used as part of combination treatment strategies.
Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are characterized by the recurrent use of a psychoactive substance associated with significant stress and disability, such as alcohol and/or drugs. These substances cause clinically significant impairment, disability, and failure to meet responsibilities at work, school, or home according to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
How Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Work?
CBT operates on the principle that our thoughts and beliefs influence our emotions and actions. By targeting maladaptive thoughts and behaviors associated with addiction, CBT aims to modify them into more positive and constructive patterns.
Through collaborative therapy sessions, experienced CBT therapists help clients recognize and challenge their distorted thinking patterns, such as irrational beliefs or negative self-perceptions.
By uncovering these underlying issues, individuals better understand the triggers that lead to substance abuse and learn healthier ways to cope with cravings and stressors.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders
CBT for substance use disorders incorporates various interventions that can be administered individually or in groups and there is evidence from numerous large-scale trials that supports the efficacy of CBT for alcohol and drug use disorders.
For instance, a comprehensive review by the Psychiatric Clinical North American Journal of the National Library of Medicine (NLM) analyzed 34 randomized controlled trials involving 2,340 patients with drug abuse and dependence. The results indicated that treatments focusing on marijuana (cannabis) showed the largest effect sizes to benefit from CBT. Additionally, the results were followed by treatments for cocaine and opioids.
In the same journal publishing, among the different types of CBT treatments, there was some evidence suggesting that contingency management approaches (which involve reinforcing positive behaviors) yielded greater effect sizes compared to relapse prevention or other cognitive-behavioral treatments. Although these advantages were observed when comparing CBT treatments to control conditions, such as general drug counseling or standard treatment practices.
Overall, the findings in the NLM journal underscore the effectiveness of CBT as a valuable approach in addressing alcohol and drug use disorders, with positive treatment outcomes observed in various contexts and over extended periods.
Common Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques
CBT employs various proven techniques tailored to each individual’s needs. Some commonly used techniques include:
- Cognitive Restructuring: This technique helps clients identify and replace negative thoughts with positive and realistic ones, reducing the likelihood of relapse.
- Behavioral Activation: By engaging in positive activities and reinforcing healthy behaviors, individuals can develop alternative coping strategies and improve their overall well-being.
- Skills Training: CBT equips individuals with practical skills to manage stress, enhance problem-solving abilities, and build healthy relationships, fostering long-term recovery.
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Goals and Benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
The primary goal of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in substance abuse treatment is to promote lasting addiction recovery and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives free from addiction. Some key benefits of CBT include:
- Identifying Triggers: CBT helps individuals recognize and manage triggers that contribute to substance abuse, such as certain environments, emotions, or social situations.
- Coping Strategies: Through CBT, individuals learn adaptive coping mechanisms to handle cravings, stress, anxiety disorders, and other challenges without resorting to substance use.
- Relapse Prevention: CBT provides clients with the tools necessary to prevent relapse by identifying warning signs, implementing effective strategies, and fostering resilience.
Relapse Prevention and Other Treatments of Substance Use
At Riverside Recovery, we understand that relapse prevention is crucial for long-term success. In addition to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), our comprehensive treatment program incorporates other evidence-based therapies, including:
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Focuses on emotional regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI): Enhances intrinsic motivation to change, helping individuals overcome ambivalence and move towards recovery.
- 12-Step Facilitation: Draws upon the principles of support and accountability found in programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
By combining these effective approaches, we provide our clients with a well-rounded treatment plan tailored to their unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder or addiction, you don’t have to wait to seek help. Riverside Recovery of Tampa is here to support you on your journey to recovery. Our compassionate team of professionals, including skilled CBT therapists, is dedicated to providing individualized treatment programs that focus on your well-being.
Contact a member of our admissions team today to take the first step towards a healthier, happier, and substance-free life. Let Riverside Recovery be your partner in reclaiming control and getting back the life you love.
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment/evidence-based-approaches-to-drug-addiction-treatment/behavioral-therapies/cognitive-behavioral-therapy
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – “Treatment Improvement Protocol 34: Brief Interventions and Brief Therapies for Substance Abuse”: https://store.samhsa.gov/product/TIP-34-Brief-Interventions-and-Brief-Therapies-for-Substance-Abuse/SMA12-3952
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – “Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders”
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disorders#:~:text=Substance%20use%20disorders%20occur%20when,work%2C%20school%2C%20or%20home.
American Psychological Association (APA) – Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/treatments/cognitive-behavioral-therapy
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) – Treatment for Alcohol Problems: Finding and Getting Help: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/treatment-alcohol-problems-finding-and-getting-help