5 Evidence Based Therapies You Need

evidence based therapies

5 Evidence Based Therapies You Need For Lasting Recovery

Explore diverse evidence based therapies in addiction treatment. Long term success in addiction recovery is achieved through the use of a variety of evidence based therapies. You can achieve lasting recovery through these scientifically-backed methods. This article will explore evidence-based therapies in addiction treatment, offering a practical guide for individuals seeking a clear path through the stages of recovery. You won’t find any magic solutions here (as there are almost none of that kind in addiction treatment) – just honest insights backed by years of credible research. We’ll explore approaches that have stood the test of scrutiny and are known to provide a roadmap for individuals and their support systems. Evidence-based methods offer hope and palpable steps toward lasting change.

What are Evidence Based Therapies

As we noted in the introduction, evidence-based addiction treatment therapies have been shaped by years and years of scientific inquiry. For example, one such study published in the Psychiatric Clinics of North America shows that these therapies are quite effective in minimizing the adverse effects of addiction on both cognitive function and behavior. As a result, evidence-based therapies represent something of a foundation for modern-day addiction treatment programs. That being said, they’re very flexible and tailored to meet various forms of addiction and susceptible to individualized treatment plans based on the patient’s needs, preferences, and cultural context. Therapists often merge various research findings with clinical judgment to optimize outcomes for individuals going through substance abuse treatment. 

Types Of Evidence Based Therapies

Now, let’s explore the various types of evidence-based therapies in addiction treatment. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) 

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a well-known method in the scientific community. It is used in many treatment centers around the country, Level Up Treatment Lake Worth, otherwise known as We Level Up Lake Worth FL, included. The latter uses CBT in combination with other evidence-based therapies. This way, We Level Up Lake Worth FL helps patients identify negative behavioral patterns originating from past experiences and allows them to correct their behavior by healing the pain of the past.

The primary goal of cognitive behavioral therapy is to demonstrate how harmful actions and emotions simply lack logical foundations and stem from previous experiences or various environmental influences and cultural contexts. Getting in touch with the roots of the mentioned feelings and behavioral patterns allows individuals to face and overcome various challenges.

Besides shedding some light on the roots of harmful behavioral patterns, CBT therapists will assist individuals undergoing treatment to identify negative “automatic thoughts.” Once identified, these distressing “automatic thoughts” will no longer require individuals to self-medicate through substance use.

Evidence Based Therapies: Motivational Interviewing (MI)

One approach that Dr. William R. Miller came up with is motivational interviewing, or MI. The idea that motivation is a mindset rather than a natural trait that we can’t change presents a challenge to what is commonly accepted. Motivating patients to chart their own course toward recovery, this evidence-based approach promotes independence and accountability.

The co-founder of MI, Dr. Stephen Rollnick, emphasizes the importance of individuals solving issues independently. It’s crucial to remember that MI usually complements other forms of therapy and might not be sufficient on its own. However, when paired with other evidence-based therapies, it can be especially effective in cultivating responsibility and confidence in patients.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Many people have found success in overcoming the difficulties associated with substance addiction problems by engaging in dialectical behavior therapy, commonly known as DBT. Its primary objective is to facilitate the way people develop strategies for dealing with stress. It also helps improve self-esteem.

DBT can help people manage powerful emotions, develop connections, and devise efficient techniques for dealing with numerous stressors associated with substance abuse. Because DBT emphasizes mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional management, it offers a complete approach to addiction treatment.

Medication-assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT, or medication-assisted treatment, is a strategy for treating addiction that combines therapy with drugs like buprenorphine, naltrexone, and methadone. Sufficient evidence shows that these drugs help minimize cravings, alleviate withdrawal symptoms, and ensure long-term sobriety.

MAT is often a good option, as it allows individuals to gradually stop using drugs. However, as was the case with MI, you can and should often pair it with other forms of therapy as it doesn’t have much effect on its own, at least not in terms of total recovery.

Exposure Therapy: Evidence Based Therapies For Trauma 

Exposure therapy, usually associated with treating PTSD and various anxiety disorders, is not such an obvious choice in addiction recovery. However, it can help individuals manage certain factors that led to addiction or could induce a relapse, such as fear, anxiety, and distress. It typically has the greatest impact when combined with other evidence-based treatments, much like other therapies on the list.

Evidence Based Therapies Have The Following Benefits

The methods mentioned above, except for exposure therapy, have proven quite effective and safe in terms of addiction treatment. There are many benefits to this kind of approach:

  • It’s patient-centered. 
  • It fosters a collaborative relationship between individuals and treatment providers.
  • It cultivates lifestyle improvements. 
  • It shifts the patient’s perspective on drug abuse. 
  • It identifies the root causes of addiction in patients. 
  • It encourages self-governance. 
  • It equips patients with stress-coping skills that prevent relapse. 

 Evidence Based Therapies Help You Achieve Lasting Success

As we have seen, evidence-based therapies in addiction treatment can be very effective. By addressing negative cognitive and behavioral patterns, emotional regulation, motivation and future goals, and exposure to various stressors, these scientifically-backed approaches collectively empower individuals on the path to full recovery. The combo of these evidence-backed strategies also instills valuable skills for finding a way through and out of the labyrinth of addiction, thus supporting individuals in achieving lasting positive change in their lives.

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