Havening: What It Is & How It Works

Havening is an alternative therapy modality that uses touch, eye movements, and distractions to mitigate feelings of stress, unease, and anxiety. The philosophy of havening is to create new neural pathways in the brain to reduce mental health symptoms related to negative memories and experiences read more

How Psychotherapy Can Help Addiction

Addiction is a complex issue that involves more than simply stopping the abuse. It seems simple, but many underlying mental issues make treating addiction more challenging than people realize.

While there are many ways to get help, psychotherapy is one of the most powerful.

What is Psychotherapy?

This term is used to describe a form of addiction counseling that revolves around emotional and mental health issues. Some refer to it as "talk therapy" because it predominantly involves speaking to a counselor and working through problems.

There are many forms of psychotherapy. The most effective for treating addiction are usually cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, and dialectical behavioral therapy. Regardless of the methods used, counselors can make a difference in helping those struggling with substance abuse.

Psychotherapy taps into the emotional side of the equation, prioritizing why people abuse substances and how they can channel their needs elsewhere.

The Goals of Psychotherapy

Patients can participate in psychotherapy through one-on-one addiction counseling with a professional or group therapy. Many rehabilitation centers encourage the use of both for maximizing results.

Regardless of how people get it, psychotherapy has many goals. It aims to help patients find healthier ways to cope with stress. It's about being more mindful in life and realizing triggers as they come. When people understand what triggers their urge to abuse substances, they can learn how to beat them.

Overcoming addiction is like a never-ending uphill battle. But psychotherapy provides tools needed to get out the other end healthier and more mindful than ever.

Who Can Benefit from Psychotherapy?

Anyone struggling with substance abuse addiction has a lot to gain from psychotherapy. Many people find that sitting in a room with a counselor who's willing to listen makes a big difference. Some find that group counseling is ideal. In group settings, patients can speak their truth in a nonjudgmental environment, something that's not always possible in the real world.

Even families of those overcoming addiction can benefit. Substance abuse affects everyone. Loved ones can learn how to overcome the emotional trauma of witnessing someone going through a cycle of addiction, strengthen bonds, and help families move forward.

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