Different Approaches to Addiction Treatment
You may have heard about the 12-Step program for treating addiction through therapy or recommendations. The Twelve Steps serve as guiding principles, offering a specific set of actions for people to follow in their battle against addiction. This program has successfully helped many individuals achieve sobriety from alcohol and other drugs. However, it’s important to understand that addiction recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey. There are various paths available for those seeking to overcome addiction.
Many effective alternatives to the 12-Step program exist for individuals dealing with substance use disorder (SUD). These methods include the Stages of Change, evidence-based treatments, experiential therapy, and holistic therapy. Understanding these different approaches can empower you to choose the treatment plan that is most suitable for your needs.
The Stages of Change for Addiction Treatment
Developed by researchers Prochaska and DiClemente at the University of Rhode Island, the Stages of Change model explains the different steps individuals go through on their path to recovery from addiction. This model, also known as the transtheoretical model (TTM), highlights that changing behavior is a gradual process that occurs in five distinct stages. These stages outline the journey toward achieving and maintaining sobriety.
- Pre-contemplation
- Contemplation
- Preparation
- Action
- Maintenance
Often, treatment facilities include a sixth step in this process: either stability or relapse.
This model effectively shows that changing behavior takes time. Change is not a straight line and differs for each person. It also allows individuals to start from their current state in recovery and encourages them to be open to change, instead of pushing them into it.
Throughout their recovery, people can revisit these stages multiple times. They often start in the pre-contemplation stage, where they may be unaware or in denial about their substance use issues. From there, they progress through the stages, not always in order, ultimately reaching a point where the problem is no longer a factor in their lives.
Evidence-Based Addiction Treatments and Therapies
There are different evidence-based therapeutic treatments that do not follow the outline of traditional 12-Step programs. Some examples include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a popular and extensively studied method of treatment. It integrates aspects of cognitive and behavioral therapy to assist people in recognizing the links between their thoughts, feelings, and actions. For those recovering from substance use disorders, CBT supports them in facing and changing harmful thoughts and behaviors related to their substance use.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy – Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a proven treatment that comes from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). The key distinction between the two is that DBT incorporates mindfulness techniques. Instead of just focusing on challenging negative thoughts and behaviors, DBT encourages individuals to accept and manage their emotions and actions. This approach is particularly effective for those dealing with substance use disorders and related mental health issues.
Motivational Interviewing -Motivational interviewing (MI) is a person-centered treatment approach that helps strengthen an individual’s motivation to change.
The five key principles of this approach include:
- Communicating empathy toward the patient
- Fostering trust and collaboration
- Developing discrepancy
- Adapting to resistance
- Increasing the patient’s self-efficacy
Experiential and Holistic Therapies
Experiential and holistic therapy methods focus on individualized care. While each approach may offer unique advantages for addiction recovery, they all aim to support the person as a whole. Instead of simply treating the symptoms of substance use disorder, holistic therapy considers all aspects of an individual’s well-being that may have been impacted by substance use. These aspects include:
- Physical well-being
- Mental well-being
- Spiritual well-being
- Emotional well-being
- Social well-being
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of holistic therapy that has been practiced for centuries. It is based on the belief that all living beings possess qi, or vital energy. When the energy channels in our bodies are out of balance, we become more susceptible to illness. On the other hand, a balanced qi promotes good health.
The process of acupuncture involves inserting small needles into specific points along the body’s energy pathways. Studies indicate that acupuncture enhances blood flow, triggers the release of important endorphins, and positively affects neurotransmitters. These effects can significantly aid brain and body function, particularly for those recovering from substance use disorders.
Mindsight & Interpersonal Neurobiology
Mindsight and interpersonal neurobiology are forms of holistic therapy that help people identify and manage their emotions while building strong relationships with others. This method incorporates mindfulness meditation to assist with emotional control. It also emphasizes the importance of social support in enhancing recovery and promoting brain development.
More Examples
Other examples of experiential and holistic, non-12-Step approaches that can aid in one’s recovery process include, but are not limited to:
- Family systems therapy
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Relapse prevention therapy
- Yoga therapy
- Roleplaying
Addiction can have a stronghold on your life. The right rehab program can be your saving grace. At Transformations by the Gulf, we aim to make treatment as easy, comfortable and effective as possible. Through a holistic approach, we help you regain your life. Our facilities are situated near St. Pete Beach, which means your recovery takes place in a serene location that fosters a natural sense of well-being. To learn more about cannabis treatment for yourself or a loved one, reach out today.
Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?
If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.
Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.
If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498
