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Introduction To Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness. Numerous research studies suggest that CBT leads to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life. In many studies, CBT has been demonstrated to be as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of psychological therapy or psychiatric medications.
It is important to emphasize that advances in CBT have been made on the basis of both research and clinical practice. Indeed, CBT is an approach for which there is ample scientific evidence that the methods that have been developed actually produce change. In this manner, CBT differs from many other forms of psychological treatment.
CBT is based on several core principles, including:
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Psychological problems are based, in part, on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking.
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Psychological problems are based, in part, on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
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People suffering from psychological problems can learn better ways of coping with them, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives.
CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns. These strategies might include:
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Learning to recognize one’s distortions in thinking that are creating problems, and then to reevaluate them in light of reality.
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Gaining a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others.
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Using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations.
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Learning to develop a greater sense of confidence in one’s own abilities.
CBT treatment also usually involves efforts to change behavioral patterns. These strategies might include:
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Facing one’s fears instead of avoiding them.
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Using role playing to prepare for potentially problematic interactions with others.
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Learning to calm one’s mind and relax one’s body.
Not all CBT will use all of these strategies.
Rather, the psychologist and patient/client work together, in a collaborative fashion, to develop an understanding of the problem and to develop a treatment strategy.
CBT places an emphasis on helping individuals learn to be their own therapists. Through exercises in the session as well as “homework” exercises outside of sessions, clients are helped to develop coping skills, whereby they can learn to change their own thinking, problematic emotions, and behavior.
CBT therapists emphasize what is going on in the person’s current life, rather than what has led up to their difficulties. A certain amount of information about one’s history is needed, but the focus is primarily on moving forward in time to develop more effective ways of coping with life.
Source: Society of Clinical Psychology


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Mental and Emotional Health Resilience in Sobriety
(Colusa County Recovery) - Achieving and maintaining sobriety is a complex journey that requires ongoing commitment and support. While abstaining from substance use is a critical component of recovery, it is equally important to address the underlying issues that may have led to addiction in the first place. This is where mental and emotional health comes into play.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), "Recovery from mental disorders and substance use disorders is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential." In other words, true recovery goes beyond simply stopping substance use; it involves healing and growth in all areas of life.
One of the most important aspects of mental and emotional health in sobriety is developing personal resilience. This includes building coping skills and healthy habits to manage stress, anxiety, and other difficult emotions that can trigger a relapse. As Susan Wagenaar, founder of Colusa County Recovery, points out, "In order to achieve long-term sobriety, individuals must focus on their well-being and personal resilience, which involves developing healthy habits that support their recovery journey."
“In addition to building resilience, addressing mental and emotional health issues through therapy, drug counseling, and support groups can also be crucial in maintaining sobriety,” says Wagenaar. “This can help individuals process past traumas or negative experiences that may have contributed to their addiction, as well as develop healthy communication skills and coping strategies.”
Ultimately, the journey to sobriety is a unique and personal one, but it is important to remember that mental and emotional health are integral components of the recovery process. With the right support, resources, and focus on mental and emotional health, individuals can achieve lasting sobriety and live their best life.

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Our meeting list includes, traditional 12-step-based meetings (AA & NA). Plus, support meetings facilitated by mental health & peer support specialists', secular recovery groups, such as LifeRing, and Yoga based recovery meetings. We have also included listings for faith-based groups, including Celebrate Recovery, as well as meetings for agnostics, freethinkers and atheists on zoom.
