Most therapists and treatment centers focus solely on the substance use disorder or behavioral addiction and neglect co-occurring issues.
CBT focuses on the whole person, including their co-occuring issues (Anxiety, Depression) to achieve better, longer-term outcomes.
We are some of the few providers in the state and within a small group in the entire country that have the unique training and experience to help people with their substance use disorder and other co-occurring issues concurrently. Our practice has multiple specialists who can collaborate to address a client's multiple needs, creating a support system that looks very different from the “traditional” addiction model - but can also incorporate those elements.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a science-backed therapy that helps people change in two primary ways: identifying unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors and helping people change how they respond to them - resulting in more helpful choices and day-to-day actions. Using CBT and a related form of therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (pronounced “Act”), our clients learn how to make more value-based long-term choices, rather than very of-the-moment or impulsive, emotionally based decisions.
CBT is also very effective for people who've had multiple relapses or haven't found success in other forms of treatment.
Individual and group therapy appointments are available, both virtually and in-person.
Our practitioners provide compassionate, person-centered CBT for substance use disorders and behavioral addictions such as:
- Alcohol Abuse/Misuse
- Drug Abuse/Misuse (e.g. Cocaine, Marijuana, Prescription Drugs, Heroin, Methamphetamines, Stimulants, Hallucinogens, etc.)
- Compulsive Gambling
- Sexual Compulsiveness
- Video Game, Cell Phone and Internet Addictions
How We Use CBT to Treat Addictions
We believe in full transparency and supporting people in making their own choices. Together with one of our practitioners we’ll:
take a practical look at why substances work for people and the ways in which they are not helpful.
help people make informed choices to set their specific goals and their process of change - whether it be total abstinence or another form of harm reduction.
help people endure the challenges that come up from addressing addiction and mental health issues - including emotional, family, work, financial, physical, and social difficulties.
Harm reduction is an approach that emphasizes improving the physical, mental, and social well-being of people on their own terms. In addition to abstinence, it can also include strategies like reducing the amount of substances used, controlled use, and medication assisted treatment (MAT) - Methadone, Suboxone, Vivitrol etc.
CBT helps treat the whole person, not just the addiction.
Along with therapy, our practitioners can also provide referrals to higher levels of care when appropriate. We may recommend adding supplemental interventions to set people up for success. These can include:
- Intensive outpatient programs
- OP/IOP referrals to psychiatry for medication assisted treatment
- Residential treatment centers that specialize in treating specific co-occurring disorders
- Peer based support programs like 12-Step, SMART Recovery, Recovery Dharma
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) groups
- Other group therapy: PTSD groups, Veterans groups, Pro-LGBTQ groups, Chronic Pain groups, CBT for Insomnia Group
Many people can benefit from CBT for addiction, even if they:
Have never been in therapy before
Have tried other forms of therapy in the past to varying degrees of success
Are not 100% certain they are “ready”
Have tried CBT with another therapist
Want to try medication in addition to therapy
Don’t want to try medication in addition to therapy
Have concerns that they will be judged, shamed, or have their treatment abruptly ended by their therapist
CBT for Addiction in Adults
If you are concerned or have questions about your alcohol or drug use, it may be helpful to start looking at the types of substances you are using and the frequency of their use.
CBT for Addiction in Adolescents
We also work with families to set them up for success in the change that they're trying to create.
Therapy Delivered With Respect, Empathy, and Compassion
We view all people as unique individuals who are doing the best they can to cope with the circumstances they are presented with. Although we are CBT specialists that help people manage their substance use using the most current and effective treatments, we also recognize how privilege, power, unequal access to resources, prejudice, racism, and other systemic issues affect a person’s lived experience. We approach each relationship with the respect, empathy, and compassion that all people deserve.
Our practitioners have also received additional training and supervision in culturally competent practices, and continue to do so as part of participating in our group.
There is no “right time” to seek counseling. Try doing something different today.
