Years of research have shown us that addiction is a complex condition that affects the brain, emotions, and relationships. Therapists are trained to address these challenges through a combination of therapies, support systems, and personalized treatment plans. In fact, therapists play a crucial role in the recovery process.
While medical support may be needed for detox or medication-assisted treatment, therapists help individuals understand the root causes of addiction, build coping skills, and create healthier patterns that support long-term recovery.
If you or a loved one is looking to start recovery, know that therapists will be a large part of your treatment plan. Below is a breakdown of the primary methods therapists use to treat addiction.
Evidence-Based Behavioral Therapies
Cognitive‑Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a type of psychotherapy that has been proven to deliver meaningful results. It helps individuals identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors linked to substance use. Clients learn that their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and that by changing unhelpful thinking patterns, they can improve how they feel and act.
CBT also teaches individuals how to manage triggers, cope with cravings, and recognize distorted thinking. This type of therapy is effective because it’s goal oriented and practical and it focuses on the here and now instead of the past.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) / Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)
MI and MET are evidence-based counseling approaches designed to help individuals find the internal motivation to change, especially when they are hesitant about doing so. For instance, some people who start recovery recognize their need for change, but they might still have mixed feelings about not drinking or using substances. This is normal, and MI and MET can help work through these feelings.
MI is collaborative and non-confrontational, allowing individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings about change in a safe space. The goal is to strengthen their own motivation rather than pressuring them to change. MET is a shorter and more structured approach to MI that includes personalized feedback and goal setting. It’s often used early in the treatment setting.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
An adaptation of CBT, DBT focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness—skills essential for preventing relapse. DBT often includes specific strategies like “burning bridges” with people, places, and things that trigger the desire to use substances, “building a new life” with meaningful routines and goals, and addressing urges and cravings with coping tools.
DBT was originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, but it has since become effective for treating substance use disorders, especially when they are tied to trauma, co-occurring mental health disorders, or emotional dysregulation. The goal is to be able to identify, understand, and manage emotions without turning to drugs or alcohol.
Family and Group Therapies
Twelve‑Step Facilitation / Peer Support Groups
Therapists encourage clients to join 12-step groups like AA and NA, as these frameworks have been shown to support long-term recovery. They also bring people together to share experiences, offer mutual encouragement, and support each other’s journey to sobriety. Because addiction can strip a person of their friends, family, and connections with others, this support and accountability is crucial. Most peer support groups are free and available in-person, online, or via phone.
Family Therapy
Addiction impacts the entire family, not just the individual using drugs or alcohol. That’s why family-based interventions are a vital part of the recovery process. They create a safe, structured environment where loved ones can heal from the emotional wounds caused by addiction, learn how to support each other effectively, and strengthen the family unit as a whole. By participating in family therapy, families are able to rebuild trust and improve communication.
Medication‑Assisted Treatment (MAT)
For opioid and alcohol use disorders, therapists often coordinate MAT under medical supervision. Medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone help reduce withdrawal, stabilize brain chemistry, and support behavioral efforts. Keep in mind that MAT is NOT replacing one substance for another. MAT medications are prescribed by doctors and carefully monitored to support recovery.
Holistic & Expressive Therapies
Recovery programs may incorporate yoga, mindfulness, art, or music therapy. Therapists may lead these sessions, teaching clients how to foster self-awareness, reduce stress, and promote healing beyond talk therapy. In addition to holistic and expressive therapies, our recovery center also offers recreational therapy, where clients get to participate in activities like hiking, rock climbing, or wake boarding.
Why a Tailored, Integrated Approach Matters
There is no one-size-fits-all cure for addiction. Effective treatment combines multiple approaches tailored to an individual’s needs. Therapists consider co-occurring mental health issues, personal history, and recovery goals to create a comprehensive, evolving plan.
When you choose Pura Vida Recovery for your care, you expect a personalized treatment plan that includes:
- Individual and group therapy grounded in CBT, MI, DBT
- Family-inclusive care that involves loved ones actively
- Accessible MAT in partnership with medical professionals
- Holistic and creative therapies supporting emotional and physical wellbeing
- Contingency management to reinforce early progress
- Structured aftercare through alumni groups and local support networks
Bringing It All Together
Addiction treatment isn’t just about stopping use—it’s about rebuilding life. Therapists at Pura Vida Recovery create a blueprint for sustained recovery: addressing triggers, healing relationships, and fostering new coping skills. With ongoing support and a custom plan, recovery becomes achievable and maintainable.
If you or a loved one is ready to take the next step, our team is here to walk with you every step of the way. Contact us today at (707) 879-8432 to learn more.
