Mental Health Treatment Archives - Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

10 Tips To Help Relieve Depression Symptoms

Posted on February 12, 2024August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Depression can cause intense feelings of sadness and hopelessness, ultimately affecting your daily life and overall well-being. Symptoms of depression can differ from person to person, and it may seem like there’s no end in sight. However, there are various effective strategies for battling depression that can work for anyone. Let’s consider 10 tips to help relieve depression symptoms. For more about a depression treatment program, call us today at 833.448.0127.

What Are Depression Symptoms?

Depression symptoms are often characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and worthlessness. Individuals may also experience changes in sleeping and eating patterns, finding it difficult to fall asleep or experiencing a loss of appetite. Moreover, a notable decrease in interest and enjoyment in activities that were once pleasurable can be observed.

It’s not uncommon for individuals with depression symptoms to become easily irritated or display anger, alongside experiencing persistent fatigue and low energy levels. Additionally, physical symptoms such as frequent headaches or digestive issues may manifest in those affected by depression.

10 Tips To Help Relieve Depression Symptoms

1. Exercise

Regular physical activity has been shown to boost feel-good brain chemicals, like endorphins.

2. Healthy Eating Habits

A healthy diet can help combat depression symptoms as well. Avoid highly processed foods or excess sugars.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Prioritize getting 7–9 hours of sleep each night. Lack of sleep can worsen depression symptoms.

4. Find Support

Joining a group of people going through similar struggles or seeking out a therapist can provide a helpful support system.

5. Develop Coping Methods

Identifying healthy ways to deal with stress and negative thoughts, like journaling or meditation, can be beneficial.

6. Set Realistic Goals

Setting small, achievable goals can help establish a sense of accomplishment and improve mood.

7. Get Outside

Spending time outdoors can improve mood and relieve depression symptoms.

8. Limit Alcohol & Drug Use

Alcohols and drugs can worsen depression symptoms and affect mood.

9. Light Therapy

Light therapy involves exposure to bright artificial light and is often used to treat seasonal depression.

10. Medication

Antidepressants are often prescribed in conjunction with therapy to help relieve depression symptoms.

Do You Need Depression Treatment?

Depression treatment typically involves a comprehensive approach that combines the use of medication and therapy. Medications play a crucial role in managing chemical imbalances in the brain, helping to restore equilibrium and alleviate symptoms.

On the other hand, therapy offers patients a safe and supportive environment. In this setting, they can explore their emotions, learn coping strategies, and develop effective techniques for managing their symptoms.

During the course of treatment, patients actively work with their therapist to dig into the underlying causes of their depression. This involves identifying factors like past traumas, negative thought patterns, or triggers in their environment.

By gaining a deeper understanding of these root causes, individuals can address unresolved issues and develop personalized strategies for managing symptoms and overall well-being in the long run. Through the combined efforts of medication, therapy, and self-reflection, individuals can embark on a journey toward healing and recovery from depression.

Benefits of Depression Treatment

Improved Mood

Depression treatment can improve mood and reduce sadness.

Increased Energy

Treatment can increase energy levels and overall motivation.

Better Sleep

Treatment can also improve sleep patterns, as depression can often inhibit restful sleep.

Improved Relationships

Addressing depression can help improve relationships with family, friends, and loved ones.

Overall Better Quality of Life

Successful depression treatment can lead to an increased sense of well-being and overall better quality of life.

Get Help Today From CMAR

If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, seeking professional help can make all the difference. At CMAR, we specialize in treating depression and work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs.

Our team works with patients to uncover the root cause of their depression and develop effective strategies for managing symptoms. Call us today or use our online contact form to take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow.

5 Trauma Therapy Activities

Posted on February 1, 2024August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Traumatic experiences can have a long-lasting impact on our lives. From emotional scars to physical symptoms, dealing with trauma can be challenging even years after it happened. Trauma therapy can help individuals overcome these symptoms and heal. It provides a safe, supportive environment to process and work through trauma. One critical element of trauma therapy is engaging in specific activities. Let’s discuss what trauma therapy activities are, the benefits of these activities, and examples you can try. For more about trauma-informed care, call us today at 833.448.0127.

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is a deeply distressing event or series of events that can have a profound and lasting impact on an individual’s life. It can arise from a single catastrophic incident, like a severe car accident, or from a prolonged and relentless pattern of abuse. The effects of trauma can reverberate through every aspect of a person’s being, influencing their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Common manifestations of trauma include overwhelming anxiety, a sense of detachment from oneself or one’s surroundings, intense anger, and even physical ailments such as headaches or stomachaches. The intricate and complex nature of trauma underscores the significance of providing compassionate support and effective interventions to those who have experienced it.

What Is Trauma Therapy?

Trauma therapy, also known as trauma-focused therapy, is a highly specialized form of therapy that is specifically designed to provide support and healing for individuals who have experienced traumatic events. It strives to help individuals process and work through their trauma in a safe and therapeutic environment, addressing the emotional and psychological impact of the traumatic experience.

This type of therapy utilizes evidence-based techniques and interventions. Consequently, it offers individuals the opportunity to heal, regain a sense of control, and ultimately, move forward towards post-traumatic growth.

What Are Trauma Therapy Activities?

Trauma therapy activities encompass a wide range of specific actions carefully tailored to assist individuals in working through their trauma. These activities are thoughtfully chosen, guided, and planned to provide a safe and grounded environment for individuals to explore and process their emotions.

They can include various forms of active movement, such as dance or boxing, allowing individuals to release tension and reconnect with their bodies. Additionally, guided meditations and visualizations offer a pathway for individuals to delve into their inner world, fostering self-reflection and healing.

Through these activities, individuals have the opportunity to not only release built-up emotions but also practice important skills like self-regulation and emotional resilience. Ultimately, trauma therapy activities serve as a powerful tool for individuals to navigate their healing journey, fostering a sense of safety, connection, and empowerment.

5 Benefits of Trauma Therapy

1. Improved Self-Awareness

Trauma therapy activities can help individuals develop a deeper understanding of their emotions and the physical sensations associated with these emotions. This awareness provides a foundation for healing and growth.

2. Reduction in Anxiety and Depression

Participating in trauma therapy activities can reduce anxiety and depression related to the trauma. These activities provide a safe space to process emotions, which can lead to fewer symptoms.

3. Improved Relationships

Trauma therapy activities can help individuals develop better relationships with others. As they develop a deeper understanding of their emotions, individuals can communicate more effectively, leading to closer relationships.

4. Greater Sense of Control

Trauma can leave individuals feeling powerless and out of control. Engaging in trauma therapy activities can help individuals feel more powerful, in control of their emotions and actions, leading to greater confidence.

5. Increased Resiliency

Trauma therapy activities can help individuals develop resiliency. In fact, trauma can cause individuals to feel stuck and hopeless. Trauma therapy activities provide an opportunity to develop new coping skills, which can be used in other areas of life.

Get Help Today From CMAR

If you’re struggling with the aftereffects of trauma, know that you’re not alone. Help is available. At CMAR, we provide trauma therapy services to help individuals heal and move forward. Call us today at 833.448.0127 or use our online contact form to learn more about our trauma therapy activities and how we can help you on your journey toward healing.

3 Treatment Goals for Depression

Posted on August 15, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Depression and addiction often go hand in hand, with each condition serving to exacerbate the other. This can lead to a vicious cycle of substance abuse and negative moods, making it difficult to break free from either condition. However, there is hope for those who are struggling with depression and addiction. By addressing depression as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, you can take steps to improve your mood and reduce your risk of relapse. Identifying treatment goals for depression is an important part of this process.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers depression treatment in Colorado that can help you reach your goals. Call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about how to get started on your journey to recovery.

The Connection Between Depression and Addiction

Depression and addiction are so closely linked that they are often referred to as co-occurring disorders. People who suffer from depression are more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol as a means of self-medication, seeking to numb the pain and feel a brief sense of relief. Unfortunately, substance abuse only makes depression worse over time, leading to a downward spiral of negative thoughts and behaviors. Conversely, people who struggle with addiction may be more susceptible to developing depression due to the effects that drugs or alcohol have on the brain. These substances can disrupt the chemicals in the brain that regulate mood, leading to a cycle of highs and lows that can be difficult to manage.

Some of the signs that you would benefit from depression treatment include:

Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
Weight gain or loss without dieting
Irritability and restlessness

With the right approach to treatment, you can experience a shift in your mood and outlook on life.

How Depression Treatment Can Support Your Recovery Goals

Treating depression as part of a comprehensive addiction recovery plan can be critical for long-term success. Addressing underlying mental health conditions can help reduce the risk of relapse and improve overall quality of life. Depression treatment can take many forms, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s individual needs. From medication to therapy to lifestyle changes, there are a variety of methods that can be used to manage depression. By working with a healthcare professional to develop an individualized treatment plan, patients can take important steps toward building a healthier, happier future.

3 Important Goals for Depression Treatment

A few of the most important goals to consider when treating depression include:

1. Addressing Underlying Causes

By identifying and treating the root causes of depression, patients can begin to break the cycle of negative moods and substance abuse.

2. Establishing Healthy Coping Skills

Effective coping mechanisms are critical for managing depressive symptoms and avoiding relapse. This might involve learning stress-reduction techniques, developing healthy routines, or connecting with support groups.

3. Building a Strong Support System

Social support can be a critical asset for those in recovery. Building a network of loved ones, peers, and healthcare providers can provide a crucial safety net during times of stress or need.

Call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery to Start Treatment

Depression and addiction are complex conditions that are difficult to manage on their own. By addressing depression as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, patients can work towards building a brighter future. With effective depression treatment, it is possible to break free from the cycle of negative moods and substance abuse and establish a healthier, happier way of life. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression or addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today.

Call 833.448.0127 or connect with our team online to start treatment.

How Trauma Influences Addiction

Posted on July 13, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Trauma can have a profound impact on mental health, even if the symptoms are not apparent for years. Trauma and addiction are often related. However, many addiction treatment programs don’t take past trauma into account. That’s why, if you’re looking into addiction treatment programs, you should look for one that offers trauma-informed care. Addiction and trauma recovery can happen at the same time when trauma is addressed in a safe, supportive way. Trauma-informed care includes therapies and approaches that are sensitive to the impact of prior traumatic experiences and seek to create a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we will enroll you in a trauma-informed care program that will treat the mental aspect of the trauma along with your addiction treatment. Call 833.448.0127 today for more on trauma-informed care in Colorado.

How Does Past Trauma Affect Addiction?

When someone experiences a traumatic event, it affects the brain in multiple areas. If the trauma happens at an early age, it can affect brain development as the trauma can suppress growth in some regions of the brain. Some trauma treatment programs can help cope with a current trauma, but often this is ignored or covered up by other mental issues, like substance addiction.

There are three areas of the brain that trauma can affect:

The hippocampus – This part of the brain is important for forming memories, and it can be suppressed after experiencing trauma.
The amygdala – This area of the brain is responsible for fight-or-flight responses, and trauma can cause it to become overactive.
The prefrontal cortex – This part helps with decision making, and trauma can make it harder to think clearly.

When you experience a traumatic event, your brain goes into a hyperactive state that suppresses your memory and impulse control. Many people enter a state of shock and cannot react normally, often freezing up and seemingly unable to speak. They are overwhelmed by the event and trying to cope.

Types of Trauma

Trauma can take many forms, from abuse of any kind to the death of a loved one. It can be caused by physical, emotional, or sexual violence; natural disasters; or even witnessing a traumatic event. It’s also possible to experience trauma through indirect means, like hearing about a loved one’s death or bearing witness to a traumatic event without directly experiencing it.

Any kind of trauma can have an effect on mental health and, as a result, addiction. Trauma can lead to feelings of fear and helplessness that drive a person to use drugs or alcohol to cope with the emotions associated with the trauma. If not addressed, this can lead to addiction and other mental health issues. Addiction develops as a result of the brain’s attempt to cope with the impact of trauma, and it can form a vicious cycle.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

In a trauma-informed care program, clients will work with a team of professionals to address the issues caused by trauma. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and focus on addressing the underlying issues rather than just the addiction. The goal of trauma-informed care is to create a safe, supportive environment and guide clients through the healing process.

Therapies used in a trauma-informed care program can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and even family therapy. These therapies will help clients understand their trauma, address any triggers, and learn coping skills to manage symptoms.

In a trauma-informed care program, you will see the impact trauma can have on addiction treatment and the need to focus on more than just one area of concern. With time, the participant will begin to feel the positive effects of a comprehensive treatment.

When you first come in and discuss your addiction and trauma treatment, your therapist will sit down with you and go over the best programs to treat your mental health so you can get over your past trauma and learn to control your addiction.

Find the Right Trauma-Informed Care for You at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand how trauma can affect your addiction and will work with you or your loved ones in their addiction recovery. We provide a safe and encouraging environment that considers the difficulties traumatic events can have on addiction and where you will feel comfortable discussing the trauma driving your addiction.

If you or someone you know is suffering from trauma-related addiction, please call 833.448.0127 or reach out to our team online today and schedule an appointment with one of our therapists.

What to Expect in Outpatient Mental Health Treatment

Posted on June 20, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Mental health issues affect people differently; no two cases are alike. While some people need the 24/7 care that an inpatient or residential treatment program provides, others benefit from outpatient mental health treatment. An outpatient treatment program offers behavioral and medication-assisted care to help you lead a happy and productive life.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR) provides discreet mental health support for men and women with mental health concerns. Our outpatient treatment program in Colorado offers therapy sessions anytime, including telehealth options to work around your schedule. If you or a loved one struggles with mental health issues and is ready to accept help, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our outpatient mental health treatment program.

How Can Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Help?

Mental health conditions like depression and bipolar disorder can create symptoms that prevent individuals from functioning normally. Their work and family lives are affected, and the potential for self-harm or suicidal thoughts presents a real danger. For men and women whose symptoms are not as severe, an outpatient mental health treatment program can greatly improve their mental health.

What is outpatient mental health treatment? It offers flexibility, allowing patients to continue their work and family commitments while attending therapy in the evening or online on a schedule that works for them. They can get help for any number of mental health disorders, including:

Depression
Generalized anxiety disorder
Seasonal affective disorder
PTSD
Bipolar disorder
Eating disorders
Personality disorders

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we help men and women from all backgrounds struggling with mental health concerns. Our staff will work with you to find the right treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and help you lead a healthier, more productive life.

Outpatient Dual Diagnosis Treatment Can Greatly Benefit Your Mental Health

Many times people will struggle with several mental health issues simultaneously. A common combination includes addiction brought on by a mental health concern or addiction that creates a mental health issue such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal behavior. No matter the cause behind the problem, dual diagnosis treatment can treat both conditions simultaneously.

By treating addiction and co-occurring mental health issues, patients can focus on developing a stronger coping mechanism for stopping their triggers and cravings. The benefits of outpatient dual diagnosis treatment include:

A therapy schedule that works around your busy life
More focused care on issues that directly affect you
A better understanding of addiction and how it affects the brain
A better outlook on your future
Learn new hobbies and interests that make you happy
Improved physical and mental health

For outpatient dual diagnosis treatment to be successful, patients must have a supportive and sober home environment to support their recovery journey. If not, there is a greater risk of relapse and risk of overdose.

For the Best Outpatient Mental Health Treatment, Choose CMAR

Our Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery outpatient treatment facility provides outpatient support through in-person and telehealth services. We can help men and women who want help with their mental health issues but cannot take the time away from their daily commitments and keep up with therapy with minimal supervision. Our treatment center offers the following:

In-person intensive outpatient treatment (IOP)
Online IOP
Outpatient detox
Medication-assisted treatment
Case management and family therapy

Our treatment facility is perfect for anyone who has been sober for several years and needs extra help and for those who have completed a residential treatment program. To learn more about our outpatient mental health treatment program and how it can benefit your mental health, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our friendly and compassionate staff. You can also get started by completing our online form.

3 Benefits of Recovery Groups

Posted on June 13, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

If you are addicted to opioids or other substances and are beginning the road to recovery, it can be challenging to face your substance use issue head-on instead of hiding from it. Speaking to a stranger alone is not easy, and the thought of group therapy can keep others away from treatment. However, recovery groups can offer the support you need as you work to overcome addiction.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we specialize in individual therapy and group therapy for addiction in a safe and encouraging environment. You are fighting a disease, and there is no shame in that. If you or someone you know needs help with substance abuse, please our team at 833.448.0127 and speak with one of our addiction treatment specialists today.

6 Key Benefits of Addiction Recovery Groups

Once you enroll in an addiction recovery group, it may take some time to feel comfortable sharing. However, once you begin to open up, you’ll find that these groups can help you heal.

1. Encouragement From Other Group Members

In one-on-one sessions, the only person encouraging you to interact is your therapist. While individual therapy sessions can be the right setting to work through deeply personal issues, in a group setting, you will be encouraged by everyone to share your story after hearing others in your group share theirs.

Hearing others speak up about their experiences will make it easier for you to follow suit.

2. Opening Yourself up to a New Perspective

You have a strong view of how you see the world and how others see you. However, by telling your story to your group, you hear how others react and give feedback. You will have an easier time trusting them because you know they are in the same boat. This beneficial technique helps you see through your disease and begin to heal.

3. A Sense of Belonging

The stigma of addiction still keeps many people from seeking treatment, leaving them feeling alone and afraid to ask for help. When you share your struggles with others in your group, you form a deep bond that only these shared experiences can build.

By surrounding yourself with your group and interacting with them, you build a powerful shield against your addiction.

4. An Opportunity to Practice New Coping Skills

When you share your story with the group, they can offer suggestions on how to better handle your triggers and thoughts. This is an invaluable opportunity to try out different coping skills in a safe environment before putting them into practice in real-life situations.

5. Receive Positive Reinforcement

Addiction recovery groups allow you to learn from the successes of others. In a group setting, you will receive positive reinforcement from other members when they see how far you have come. This can help to boost your self-confidence and motivate you to continue on your path of recovery.

6. Reduce Stress and Anxiety Levels

By actively engaging in a group setting, your stress and anxiety levels will be reduced. You’ll have the opportunity to form connections with other people going through similar experiences which helps create an emotional support system for yourself.

The Five Stages of Recovery

As you begin the journey to recovery, it can be helpful to know what to expect.

Pre-contemplation – The addiction has negative effects on your life, and you have yet to recognize the problem.
Contemplation – Recognizing the problem is a significant step.
Preparation – Deciding to start a group therapy program can require planning if you need to remain at a treatment center. It’s best to have someone help you prepare.
Action – Following up on your decision and actively working on your recovery takes effort.
Maintenance – After your treatment program ends, it is vital to avoid old triggers until you are more comfortable with your recovery.

A successful addiction recovery group involves action. One of the hardest things to do is openly talk about your disease. Being in a group of others going through the same problem can help make you feel more comfortable opening up.

How Can Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Help You?

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we believe addiction recovery should involve group therapy sessions along with individual therapy to better treat the mental and physical aspects of this terrible disease.

Addiction recovery groups have many beneficial effects on your recovery that you would not get with individual therapy. Once you begin, you will quickly realize the benefits of your group therapy sessions as you start to gain control of your addiction. If you or someone you know is ready to begin the recovery process, call 833.448.0127 today and schedule an appointment.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

Posted on May 31, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

When you go to the doctor, the focus is often on figuring out what’s wrong. While your doctor only wants to help, taking a clinical approach that seems to ignore what may be happening beneath your exterior can feel impersonal. Those who have experienced trauma can face challenges with their mental health. Trauma-informed care focuses less on fixing the immediate problem and more on understanding everything that led to your current issues. It’s a concept that informs the way everyone at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery helps patients. If you’re looking for trauma-informed care in Colorado, contact us today at 833.448.0127 or fill out our online form.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

When people experience trauma because of neglect, abuse, discrimination, violence, and other adverse experiences, they often turn to risky behavior like drug and alcohol abuse. Someone who comes into the ER because of an opioid overdose may have started using the drugs to get away from memories associated with the experience of trauma.

Using a trauma-informed care approach to individuals seeking treatment for mental health or substance use disorders helps doctors, addiction specialists, and other medical professionals understand more about the experiences that led to a patient’s current state. Trauma therapy makes a big difference to a person when someone tries to understand what happened to them. Some important tenets of trauma-informed care include:

Understanding how much trauma impacts people
Looking at the way trauma affects a person’s ability to achieve recovery
Recognizing signs of trauma in patients and those close to them

Learn how to avoid creating situations that might inadvertently remind patients of past trauma

Understanding the role of resiliency in helping patients move forward

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our doctors and specialists take a trauma-informed care approach while providing treatments for addiction and mental health disorders. We believe that understanding how past experiences have impacted someone’s life is essential to creating an effective treatment plan for recovery.

How Can Trauma-Informed Care Help with Addiction?

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery believes that taking a trauma-informed approach in all aspects of treatment helps our patients achieve better outcomes. Addiction and mental health disorders are complex issues that can’t be handled with a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. By taking the time to understand what patients are going through, we can develop more effective approaches to addiction and mental health care.

The main principles that drive trauma-informed care include the following:

Empowering patients – We focus on a person’s strengths and use them to help them progress through treatment
Giving patients choices – Patients respond more positively when they feel they have a choice when it comes to their treatment
Collaborating with patients – Everyone at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery works with the patient and their family to obtain the best outcome
Making patients feel safe – We want patients to feel secure in their environment when they come to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for treatment
Earning the trust of patients – Patients can expect complete transparency and clarity when it comes to the treatments offered at our facility and the kind of care they can expect

It’s important to note, though, that trauma-informed care is not a one-time solution. It’s an ongoing process of understanding and support to help heal trauma.

What Are the Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care?

We’ve found that trauma-informed care benefits both patients and the staff at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Those who come to us for help can learn how to rebuild fractured relationships or focus on building new ones with people supportive of a patient’s recovery journey. Trauma therapy is also a chance for you to have a voice regarding getting help for issues driving your addiction or mental health crisis.

Trauma-informed care gives staff the chance to understand our patients’ issues on a deeper level. That helps build trust both ways and makes us more empathetic to the challenges our patients go through as they work to improve their long-term physical, mental, and emotional health.

Some other benefits of trauma-informed care include:

Being able to recognize and respond appropriately to signs of trauma while addressing underlying issues related to addiction or mental health disorders
Creating a safe and supportive environment for patients to feel comfortable with the help they’re getting
Offering different approaches to treatment that can address a wide range of symptoms

Trauma-informed care is the gold standard in modern addiction and mental health treatment. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is proud to offer this approach to all of our patients.

Experience Trauma-Informed Care at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery maintains a safe, therapeutic environment for patients looking for help with mental health or addiction issues. Treatments and programs offered at our facility include:

Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at [Direct] if you want to learn more about how we can become your partner in overcoming problems that may be holding you back in life.

What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Posted on May 17, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) techniques are one of several types of treatment available to help with drug and alcohol addiction treatment as well as some mental health disorders. DBT allows a person to better control more of their thoughts and the resulting actions. DBT therapy is one of the services offered at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery and tends to be a component of most patients’ care. To learn more about dialectical behavioral therapy in Colorado, contact us online or call 833.448.0127 to speak to our compassionate, professional team.

Understanding DBT

DBT therapy is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy, an evidence-based treatment program. It is designed to provide people with healthy ways to manage stress, a better ability to manage emotions, and the ability to live in the moment. In many ways, it can help improve the quality of life.

Initially designed to help those with borderline personality disorder, today, it is commonly used for the treatment of mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety. DBT is also heavily used in substance use disorder treatment.

What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy Able to Do?

DBT therapy helps a person develop a range of new skills. They may work in an individual or group setting to achieve these goals. The ultimate goal is to help people navigate complex problems and stress. Some of the key benefits include:

Learning to accept, tolerate, and manage challenges in life.
Understanding how to analyze problems and destructive behavior patterns so they can be changed to better outcomes.
Exploring how to change thoughts, beliefs, behaviors, and actions that are unhelpful.
Improving communication skills with other people, improving their ability to achieve goals.
Developing skills to manage the challenges a person faces with substance use disorders.

Utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy Techniques

Dialectical behavior therapy techniques are those used by therapists to encourage and manage change. Some examples of these include:

Core Mindfulness – This technique encourages people to pay more attention to the present moment and their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judging them. It can help individuals become more aware of what triggers their addictive behavior patterns.
Distress Tolerance – This teaches patients how to cope with distress in a healthy way so that they don’t turn towards drugs or alcohol when feeling overwhelmed.
Emotional Regulation – People learn how to identify difficult emotions as well as how to manage them in a healthier way than self-medicating with substances.
Interpersonal Effectiveness – People learn communication skills such as assertive techniques, which allow them to communicate effectively and navigate challenging social situations without relying on substance use for comfort or relaxation.

These behavior therapy techniques can lead to increased confidence, better communication, improved relationships, and a better overall quality of life. Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery provides an individualized plan to match the needs of each patient best.

Incorporating DBT Therapy into Treatment

DBT is often a component of the evidence-based therapy we offer at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Individuals will first receive comprehensive screenings and an assessment to determine if this type of therapy is best. If DBT therapy is recommended, it becomes a part of treatment along with other therapies. Dialectical behavior therapy techniques are learned over a period of several sessions and practiced in both individual and group sessions. For many, this type of therapy is encouraging and easy to embrace because of the impact it adds to their life and the control it provides.

Some of the other therapies available include:

Reach Out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Dialectical behavior therapy is one of the tools available at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. DBT therapy may be one component of care a person receives through our treatment programs. For those ready to explore dialectical behavior therapy techniques, the first step is an assessment and consultation. To get started, call 833.448.0127 or connect online to learn more about DBT.

What Happens During the Individual Therapy Process?

Posted on May 10, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

When someone seeks out therapy or counseling for addiction, there are many options to choose from. Who delivers it, how it’s accessed, and how it’s approached all differ depending on the type of therapy a person seeks out. If one-on-one counseling is the person’s choice, it is often helpful to know what to expect during the individual therapy process. Learn more about individual therapy in Colorado by calling Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127.

What Is Individual Therapy?

Individual therapy is a type of counseling that is also commonly referred to as psychotherapy or talk therapy. Trained mental health professionals deliver treatment in a safe, confidential, one-on-one setting. During this time, clients can explore their feelings and identify areas that may need work, including beliefs, behaviors, memory influences, or addictions. The overall goal of this type of therapy is to help the client talk through mental health concerns so that they can heal and move toward a healthier life.

Why Choose an Individual Therapy Program?

Psychotherapy has been shown to result in fewer relapses related to common conditions such as moderate anxiety and depression. The right kind of therapy can have long-lasting positive effects. Oftentimes, individual therapy is more effective than rehabilitation drugs or medical treatments alone, and techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are evidence-based, providing further backing to their effectiveness.

The individual therapy process is known to have the following benefits:

Effective for all ages
Continued progress after treatment is completed
Potential reduction of the need for medical intervention
Fewer side effects than with the use of rehabilitative drugs
It may improve the daily functioning of those with mental health disorders
Effective in addressing multiple issues

Individuals entering individual therapy will often be assessed for current symptoms and mental health history. These measures help therapists sculpt effective therapy plans that address relevant concerns.

Types of Individual Therapy

Because each therapist approaches their counseling sessions differently depending on the client’s needs, it can be helpful to understand each type. Some of the most common types of individual therapy include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)
Existential therapy
Solution-focused therapy
Motivational interviewing
Psychodynamic therapy

Each type of therapy modality will provide unique benefits to those who engage in them. However, some common therapy methods have proven effective for most people.

Three Common Individual Therapies

The main three used in most individual therapy sessions are CBT, DBT, and EMDR.

CBT

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a process that works to assess how a person thinks and behaves to improve the way they feel. It is most helpful for mood disorders, substance use disorders, and sleep disorders. Because of this, it is often the individual therapy method used for those with co-occurring conditions.

DBT

As a newer form of therapy, dialectical behavior therapy helps clients build healthy coping skills. Mindfulness, stress tolerance, and emotional regulation are commonly used during the process.

EMDR

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is most commonly used to treat trauma and related disorders. In this process, bilateral stimulation is used to process and remove physical and psychological blockages.

What to Expect During an Individual Therapy Program

Individual therapy is different for each patient. The goals, frequency, duration, and techniques will depend on the client and even the therapist’s preference. Most sessions last between 45 and 50 minutes, occur at least once a week, and last as long as it takes to resolve the issues present.

Psychotherapy begins after the client and therapist determine that it will be the most beneficial option. Afterward, forms to protect patient privacy and share clinical history are typically filled out. Often, the first appointment is used to discuss concerns, history, and goals so that the client and therapist can be on the same page. Through repeated sessions, the therapist and client can build trust and deepen the relationship to cover more ground toward recovery.

How Long Are Individual Therapy Plans?

Depending on the needs of the individual, therapy plans can range from a few weeks to months or even years. The duration of the individual therapy process usually depends on how long it takes for the individual to reach their treatment goals or objectives. However, many individuals find that having ongoing therapy is beneficial as they work through life’s challenges and continue making progress in recovery.

Many people in a rehab setting will engage with their therapist for as long as they are in treatment. This allows them to address any comorbid conditions they may have and work on their triggers, emotions, and feelings to build a foundation for successful recovery.

Choose Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for Your Individual Therapy Needs

When it comes time for individual therapy, Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery can help. We work toward a complete recovery for clients who benefit from our highly accessible options, including remote telehealth, outpatient programs, and neuro-feedback. Visit our website or contact us at [Direct] for more information.

How Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Is Used in Addiction Treatment

Posted on May 2, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

People often think that rehab is the only solution when dealing with addiction. They might imagine using heavy drugs to detox or spending time in isolation while in recovery. But that is not how recovery works, and an important component of addiction treatment involves therapy. One of the most common types of therapy used to help people overcome addiction is cognitive-behavioral therapy, also known as CBT.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers cognitive-behavioral therapy in Colorado. CBT is a type of talk therapy that looks at how thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors interact to influence feelings and actions. We understand the importance CBT can be for a patient’s addiction recovery. If you think CBT could be beneficial for you, please get in touch with us at 833.448.0127 to speak with one of our team members about how CBT can be effective for addiction.

What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that leads people through problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that they can learn new patterns of behavior and overcome addiction. CBT helps patients discover connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions and increases awareness of how each impacts their recovery. Armed with this knowledge, individuals in recovery can begin taking steps toward a healthier life.

CBT is commonly used to treat other disorders that can co-occur with addiction, including:

Eating disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Bipolar disorder
Anxiety and depression
Attention deficit disorder

So, you’re probably wondering, “Is CBT effective for addiction?” The answer is yes. Studies have shown that CBT is an effective form of treatment for addiction and helps individuals develop healthier coping skills to cope with their cravings. With the proper guidance from a therapist, people can gain the tools they need to break free from their addictions and make lasting changes in their lives.

How Does CBT Work?

By engaging in cognitive-behavioral therapy, patients learn that many of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are not rational. Many stem from environmental factors, past experiences, or current stressors. Understanding these things and how they relate to addiction empowers them to be more successful in the recovery process.

Therapists help patients identify their automatic, negative thought patterns and discover where they originate. These subconscious thoughts are often based on misconceptions and lead to impulses that are hard to control. Those dealing with addiction will then self-medicate to avoid the pain that comes with it.

CBT is based on the belief that facing these negative thought patterns and the subconscious reasons behind them helps reduce the pain associated with them. When the pain is lessened, patients can replace the negative behaviors associated with addiction with new, positive approaches and techniques they learn during treatment.

How Does CBT Help Those with Drug or Alcohol Addiction?

There are many benefits to using CBT in addiction recovery. Because CBT deals with thought processes and how they affect behaviors, changes in how patients deal with negative thinking bring about positive results. CBT essentially equips patients with the tools needed to sustain lasting results. There are several other benefits of CBT for addiction recovery:

Teaches patients how to communicate effectively
Gives patients a healthier way to handle negative emotions and situations
Equips patients with tools to improve their moods and handle stress
Helps patients resolve the negative or false beliefs that led to addiction
Provides patients with ways to deal with triggers and cravings
Helps patients recognize and identify what led to their addiction

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers cognitive-behavioral therapy services that are tailored to each individual’s needs. To learn more about how cognitive-behavioral therapy can aid your recovery journey, please get in touch with us at 833.448.0127. We would be more than happy to discuss the effectiveness of CBT for addiction with you.

Various CBT Techniques

Each therapist will have a different approach, but many of the techniques used are similar. A therapist who uses a cognitive-behavioral therapy approach might ask a client to keep a thought journal to disprove their negative thoughts. They may work on behavioral experiments with the client where negative and positive thought patterns are compared to determine which is more effective.

This reframing of thoughts helps the client take a more positive approach. Another approach is to create a self-care list. This is a list of healthy, enjoyable activities meant to encourage positive emotions and break up the day’s routine. Imagery-based exposure is another technique that involves recalling painful memories in detail to eventually reduce the pain they cause. These are just a few techniques therapists can draw from to help with addiction treatment.

Benefits of CBT in Combination with an Addiction Treatment Program

Is CBT effective for addiction?—the truth is that cognitive-behavioral therapy has been proven to be effective for addiction recovery. Research shows that people have higher success rates when CBT is combined with other therapies and treatments, such as 12-step programs or medications.

CBT helps those dealing with addiction by providing them with the tools needed to identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier actions. When combined with other treatments, it can provide an even greater benefit to those recovering from addiction. Some other significant benefits of CBT in combination with an addiction treatment program can include :

Reduction of cravings and relapse risk
Improvement in self-control and decision making
Increase in social skills
Enhancement of stress management techniques
Increase in motivation for recovery and long-term abstinence from substance use

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is devoted to helping those struggling with addiction. We understand how difficult it can be to break free from addiction, and we offer cognitive-behavioral therapy as one of the tools that can help you.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Uses CBT in Addiction Treatment

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery can help patients looking to use therapy in their addiction treatment. Whether dealing with alcohol dependence, opioid withdrawal symptoms, or another type of addiction, we work toward a complete recovery for patients using CBT and other therapy methods. Options include telehealth and outpatient programs to meet a variety of needs. Visit our website or contact us at 833.448.0127 for more information.