What Helps with Addictions

I have been taking supervision sessions with an addictions specialist as this is an area I want more knowledge around.

We discussed the following that can help clients with addictions:

1. CBT

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps people learn how to identify and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns that have a negative influence on behavior and emotions.

2. Disease Model + AA + * role of community/ fellowship and connection

Disease model, addiction is a brain disease. It is characterized by altered brain structure and functioning. These brain abnormalities cause persons with this disease to become addicted to substances or activities, once exposure to these substances or activities occurs. This model considers addiction irreversible once acquired.

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who come together to solve their drinking problem. It doesn’t cost anything to attend A.A. meetings. There are no age or education requirements to participate. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about their drinking problem.

3. Harm Reduction Model

Harm reduction is an umbrella term for interventions aiming to reduce the problematic effects of…