Benefits of Behavioral Therapy for Addiction in Skokie, IL

What is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a method of identifying the self-defeating behaviors and thoughts that often drive addiction. During sessions, patients work with a therapist to address these attitudes and gain perspective. CBT is not a passive talk therapy. Instead, it is goal-oriented and focused on finding practical solutions to the real-world problems a recovering addict may encounter.

The goals of cognitive-behavioral therapy are to:

• Change deeply rooted, negative perceptions, values and beliefs
• Improve a patient’s ability to regulate their emotions, especially in stressful situations
• Develop coping strategies to address cravings and triggers as they arise

The Effectiveness of CBT in Drug Addiction Treatment

Destructive and negative thinking are some of the hallmarks of addiction. Whether it’s self-hatred or anger directed at those around you, these unhealthy cognitive distortions affect your overall health and can contribute to a life of addiction. CBT for substance abuse helps you recognize and challenge these harmful thought patterns.

Our Skokie team often incorporates CBT into our patients’ personalized addiction treatment programs. We have seen first hand the incredible benefits of this therapeutic modality, including:

• Exploring the thoughts and behaviors that have led to addiction
• Seeking to modify negative cognitive patterns
• Replacing negative beliefs with positive ones
• Facing and solving problems, rather than hiding from them
• Finding practical solutions to triggers like stress or family dysfunction
• Preventing relapse before things get out of control