Topic > The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - 1742

Addiction is the chronic, inappropriate use of a substance or activity that interferes with daily life. Research has shown that addictive substances become ingrained in the individual's coping mechanism. Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective form of addiction treatment because it is an integrative approach that consists of multiple phases, sees the individual as a whole, is more effective than pharmacotherapy, and creates a healthy relationship with the therapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that teaches the individual new patterns of behavior to break his or her old, ineffective habits. Scientific research on addiction shows that those who suffer from substance dependence do not have the same abilities as non-substance users. This may include the ability to think about the consequences of one's actions, plan ahead, and decision-making skills. (Simpson et al., 2011, p. 2). In CBT, the therapist must ensure that the client develops these skills and creates a functional self-concept through goals. The type of goals usually depends on the therapist's opinion. It is critical that the therapist have awareness of a client's substance addiction because their response to the substance or the client will affect the treatment. The therapist should be supervised to ensure that cognitive behavioral therapy helps the client and does not harm his or her mental state. Psychotherapy is individualized for both therapists and clients, but there are some clear steps and ideas in CBT. Cognitive behavioral therapy is based on the ABC model cycle, which consists of antecedents, behavior, and consequences (Ryan, 2013, p.33) . The antecedent is the event that takes place to cause...... half of the article ......iates Publishers.Hides, L., Samet, S., & Lubman, D.I. (2010). Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for the treatment of co-occurring depression and substance use: Current evidence and directions for future research. Drug and Alcohol Review, 29(5), 508-517. Ryan, F. (2013). Cognitive therapy for addiction: Motivation and change. Wiley-Blackwell.Simpson, D., Joe, G.W., Dansereau, D.F., & Flynn, P.M. (2011). Addiction treatment outcomes, process, and change: Texas Institute of Behavioral Research at Texas Christian University. Dependence, 106(10), 1733-1740. Principles of Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition) (December 2012). Retrieved November 8, 2013, from http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/evidence-based-approaches-to-drug-addiction-treatment /behavioral.