Mental HealthTherapy and Addiction: What To Know

Addiction is an overwhelming and complex issue for the individual experiencing it and their loved ones. It can cause people to feel lost and overwhelmed, leading to isolation and hopelessness. With the help of therapy and other forms of treatment, people can start to gain control over their addictive behaviors and start their journey toward recovery. Here are the basics of addiction and how therapy can help in the recovery process:

Understanding Addiction

Addiction is a dependent relationship with a substance or compulsive behavior. People can quickly find themselves feeling out of control with their substance use or behaviors. This can lead to harmful consequences in their personal and professional lives. It can also lead to a physical dependence on the substance or behavior. As an individual becomes dependent, stopping without experiencing withdrawal symptoms becomes increasingly difficult.

Addiction can take many forms, including alcohol addiction, drug addiction, sex addiction, porn addiction, and gambling addiction. Each type may require a unique treatment approach to help the person achieve their recovery goals.

How Therapy for Addiction Can Help

Therapy can provide an individual with the resources to help them understand and manage their behaviors and cravings. Therapists work with individuals to identify their triggers and develop healthier coping strategies to avoid the temptation of using or engaging in addictive behavior. Professionals provide both mental and emotional support as individuals work toward recovery. Therapists at Mariposa Detox Center can also offer family therapy sessions to help support the affected individual’s loved ones. These sessions can introduce healthy communication strategies, teach loved ones about addiction and recovery, and help individuals and families establish boundaries. Here are several therapy approaches commonly used to address addiction:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT, involves identifying and addressing unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors contributing to addiction. It focuses on helping people recognize their triggers and identify helpful coping methods to avoid temptations and combat cravings.

CBT is a short-term therapy, typically consisting of 10 to 20 sessions. Your therapist will likely assign homework tasks for you to work on between sessions. With this type of therapy, you can learn how to monitor and change your thoughts and behaviors over time.

Motivational Enhancement Therapy

Motivational enhancement therapy, MET, is the process of encouraging an individual to become motivated and engaged in their recovery process. It involves helping people identify and focus on their unique goals while providing resources that can help them reach those goals.

MET’s primary focus is exploring personal motivations and inner resources. It helps individuals identify why they are engaging in addictive behaviors and how to strengthen their motivation to recover.

Holistic Therapy

Holistic therapy is a treatment that focuses on the mind, body, and spirit. It looks at an individual’s overall health and well-being instead of focusing solely on their addiction. A holistic approach incorporates yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and art into therapy sessions to help individuals find more balance in life and reduce stress.

Holistic therapy can benefit those dealing with trauma and difficult emotions associated with their addiction. It can help individuals explore the underlying causes of their behaviors and develop healthy, mindful coping methods.

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational interviewing, MI, is a counseling approach that focuses on helping individuals make positive lifestyle changes. During this therapy, a counselor explores an individual’s thoughts and feelings about their addiction. They then use the responses to motivate the individual to make positive changes.

MI encourages individuals to set small, achievable goals that support their recovery and hold them accountable for those goals. MI can help you identify and measure your progress, understand the consequences of your choices, and gain a positive perspective on your life and recovery journey.

Get Addiction Help Today

Addiction is a complex issue that can be easier to manage with the help of a supportive therapist. Therapists offer a range of approaches to help individuals manage their recovery process and regain their quality of life. Find an addiction therapist today to receive support and guidance as you make positive changes in your life and move towards a healthier, substance-free future.

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