What Will Treatment Be Like?
In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (CBT-SUD), a trained therapist will work with you to help you to (1) make changes in your use of alcohol and/or other drugs, (2) better manage cravings and urges, and (3) develop skills for refusing substances. Your therapist will also teach you proven skills to address problems related to your substance use. This may include skills for managing your mood, improving communication, solving problems, or increasing social support. The specific skills you focus on will be based on your personal situation and what is important to you.
At the start of treatment, you’ll create treatment goals that are specific to you. Then, you and your therapist will work together as a team to help you achieve your goals. Throughout treatment, your therapist will ask you for feedback to make sure things are headed in the right direction. Treatment lasts about 12 sessions, though you can start with just a few sessions to try it out.