Addiction

Substance use disorders can affect anyone regardless of sex, age, socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity. Addictive disorders can be physically and psychologically devastating. Treatment is essential for breaking the cycle of addiction, identifying triggers, developing healthy coping skills, repairing damaged relationships, processing past traumas, and reclaiming one’s life and self-worth. 

Substance abuse requires individualized treatments that address the underlying causes of the disease, as well as the consequences it has had on a person’s life.  These consequences are wide-ranging and can impact a person’s physical and mental health, relationships, career, education, among other things. Without addressing what may have led to the initial addiction, individuals are vulnerable to relapse even after leaving a treatment program. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based, goal-oriented treatment method considered to be one of the most effective psychotherapy techniques for addressing addictions. It works by identifying the negative thought patterns influencing a person’s addictive behaviors and serving as an intervention to this damaging cycle. It focuses primarily on identifying the root of the addiction, changing distorted thought patterns, practicing alternative ways of thinking, and teaching the individual to cope with distressing emotions.