Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Overview

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that treats problems and boosts happiness by modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. CBT focuses on solutions, encouraging individuals to challenge distorted cognitions and change destructive patterns of behavior. In relation to addiction recovery, CBT plays a pivotal role. Addiction often involves patterns of thought and behavior that promote substance use and hinder recovery. These may include beliefs about the need for a substance to function or cope with stress, patterns of behavior that expose the person to high-risk situations, or a lack of effective coping strategies. CBT addresses these issues by helping the individual recognize their harmful thoughts and behaviors, understand the contexts in which they occur, and develop healthier ways to cope with stress or other triggers. This makes CBT an effective tool for helping prevent relapse, one of the most significant challenges in the treatment of addiction.