Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that takes a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving. Its goal is to change patterns of thinking or behavior that cause substance use disorder and change the way they feel. CBT works by changing people’s attitudes and their behavior by focusing on the thoughts, images, beliefs, and attitudes that are held and how these processes relate to the way a person behaves, as a way of dealing with substance use disorders and their resulting problems.

During CBT the client and therapist work together to understand what the problems are and develop new strategies for tackling them. CBT introduces patients to a set of principles that they can apply whenever they need to and that will last them a lifetime.

CBT is based on several core principles, including:

• Psychological problems are based, in part, on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking.
• Psychological problems are based, in part, on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
• People suffering from psychological problems can learn better ways of coping with them, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives.

CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns. These strategies might include:

• Learning to recognize one’s distortions in thinking that are creating problems, and then reevaluate them in light of reality.
• Gaining a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others.
• Using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations.
• Learning to develop a greater sense of confidence in one’s own abilities.

CBT treatment also usually involves efforts to change behavioral patterns. These strategies might include:

• Facing one’s fears instead of avoiding them.
• Using role-playing to prepare for potentially problematic interactions with others.
• Learning to calm one’s mind and relax one’s body.

Cognitive behavior therapy is a combination of psychotherapy and behavioral therapy. Psychotherapy emphasizes the importance of the personal meaning we place on things and how thinking patterns begin in childhood. Behavioral therapy pays close attention to the relationship between our problems, our behavior, and our thoughts. Elevate Recovery Centers personalize cognitive behavioral therapy in Glen Burnie to the specific needs and personality of each individual.

The goals of recreation therapy are always the same: to improve a person’s level of functioning and happiness. In the case of substance use disorder recreational therapy is a great way for individuals to practice new coping skills that replace previous substance use.

For more information on our Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Glen Burnie, contact us today.