In the 1960s, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) was created by Dr. Aaron Beck, a psychiatrist interested in the links between thinking and behavior. He dubbed the method “cognitive-behavioral therapy” because it focuses on the client’s thought process—the cognition that happens, often outside of conscious awareness—that impacts feelings and behaviors. Since then, CBT’s effectiveness in treating mental health disorders has been established. CBT has become one of the most powerful tools in the tool belts of recovery therapists and other professionals who work with people struggling with substance use disorders.

Call 303-268-2144 to speak with someone from Mile High Recovery Center’s knowledgeable team of professionals about our Colorado drug addiction therapy center in Denver. You can also complete our simple online form.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy In Denver

When you understand how your thinking connects with your behavior, you can change your entire life experience by shifting your thoughts. This practice is embedded in principles of mindfulness, through which you start to notice the intuitive thinking that often influences your mood, feelings, and behaviors without your awareness.

Research has shown that humans default to negative self-talk more readily than positive self-talk. In other words, in their internal dialogue with themselves, they are more likely to repeat the following negative statements than something like “I am worthy of love” or a similarly positive thought:

  • “I don’t deserve good things.”
  • “I’ll be alone forever.”
  • “I’m a failure.”

Thoughts influence everything in a person’s life. They affect all decisions, including doing nothing, taking dangerous risks, and everything in between. It’s important to realize that you have power over your thoughts and reactions. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy in Colorado, Mile High Recovery Center helps you gain insight into your habitual thoughts and guides you toward replacing them with healthy, positive cognitive patterns. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an excellent approach to substance use disorder treatment because it teaches the skills necessary for lasting recovery.

How Does CBT work?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is characterized by several elements that work in concert to create lasting effects for those in recovery from addiction. For example, CBT:

  • Is goal-oriented with the set objective of identifying, assessing, and shifting harmful thoughts and false beliefs
  • Is typically time-limited—between 24 and 48 sessions—which supports the idea of being goal-focused
  • Is equally effective in a group therapy setting or an individual therapy session
  • Focuses on the present moment
  • Creates change not just in thoughts but mood and behavior
  • Shifts a client’s response to triggers to reduce the risk of relapse

 

Like most forms of psychotherapy, CBT typically works better when combined with other evidence-based treatment approaches. At Mile High Recovery Center in Denver, CO, our staff is experienced in treating addiction with CBT. We understand that you need effective psychological tools to combat the immediate gratification and sense of well-being that drugs and alcohol provide. We also know that “knowledge is power” is true and fundamental to why CBT works.

Benefits Of CBT

CBT can provide you with knowledge and practices that help with the following:

  • Self-awareness – With this, you can recognize triggers, the onset of cravings, and high-risk situations before it’s too late.
  • Planning – This is crucial if you don’t want to become trapped in a situation rife with triggers and temptation.
  • Problem-solving – Practicing this skill is vital to find your way out of situations that otherwise might threaten your sobriety.
  • Responding to your own hurtful beliefs – When you do this, you don’t allow them to derail your recovery.

 

Becoming a conscious participant in your own thought process does not mean you’ll never have another negative thought. It simply means you’ll see it for what it is and can deny its power over you.

Find Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy In Colorado At Mile High Recovery Center

Cognitive-behavioral therapy and other evidence-based recovery treatment therapies are at the core of our services. In addition to being trained in numerous modalities, our staff is interested in you and devoted to your recovery.

Realigning how you think and respond is much more achievable than you think. In a cognitive-behavioral therapy program, the treatment team will support you at every step. Don’t hesitate and contact Mile High Recovery Center today at 303-268-2144 to learn more about cognitive-behavioral therapy in Denver.

Begin Outpatient Rehab at Mile High Recovery Center Today

In Denver’s City Center neighborhood, Mile High is here to help you thrive throughout the Denver Metro area. If you or someone you love is ready to take the next steps towards recovery, call us today at 303-268-2144 to learn more about our outpatient programs.