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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) For Substance Use

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. 

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What Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help With?

This successful form of talk therapy is helpful for treating:

  1. Depression
  2. Anxiety Disorder
  3. Alcohol And Drug use Problems
  4. Marital Problems
  5. Eating disorders
  6. Severe Mental Illness 

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:
  1. Type of mental health disorder
  2. Severity of symptoms
  3. Patient progress
  4. Family support or lack of support
  5. Stress levels during therapy

How does CBT work in a rehab setting?

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:
  1. Type of mental health disorder
  2. Severity of symptoms
  3. Patient progress
  4. Family support or lack of support
  5. Stress levels during therapy

What are some common goals of CBT in rehab?

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:
  1. Type of mental health disorder
  2. Severity of symptoms
  3. Patient progress
  4. Family support or lack of support
  5. Stress levels during therapy

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

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:
  1. Type of mental health disorder
  2. Severity of symptoms
  3. Patient progress
  4. Family support or lack of support
  5. Stress levels during therapy

How long does CBT treatment typically last in rehab?

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:
  1. Type of mental health disorder
  2. Severity of symptoms
  3. Patient progress
  4. Family support or lack of support
  5. Stress levels during therapy

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

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:
  1. Type of mental health disorder
  2. Severity of symptoms
  3. Patient progress
  4. Family support or lack of support
  5. Stress levels during therapy

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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.

Picture of This content is verified and moderated by Dr. Brendan Bickley

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.

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