Soulful Sobriety: Non-Religious Spiritual Paths to Addiction Recovery

For decades, addiction recovery has been tied to religion, particularly through programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), which emphasizes surrendering to a higher power. But what if belief in God doesn’t resonate with you? What if you’re spiritual but not religious, agnostic, or recovering from religious trauma?

A growing body of research shows that spirituality in addiction recovery doesn’t have to be religious to be powerful. Studies have found that non-religious spiritual practices, like mindfulness meditation, service to others, and connection to nature, can reduce cravings, increase emotional resilience, and boost feelings of purpose during substance abuse recovery. These benefits are measurable on a neurobiological level, affecting brain regions tied to stress, decision-making, and self-control.

Let’s explore non-religious treatment options for drug and alcohol addiction, spotlighting alternative spiritual paths that honor your beliefs, values, and lived experience, with no religious doctrine required.

Redefining Spirituality: What It Means Without Religion

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Spirituality often gets confused with religion, but they aren’t the same.

Spirituality in addiction recovery is about connection, finding purpose, inner peace, and self-discovery. It’s the quiet realization that you are part of something bigger, whether that’s the natural world, a loving community, or your inner growth. You don’t need a church, pastor, or sacred text to tap into that.

In fact, many atheists, agnostics, and trauma survivors say that non-religious spirituality gave them back the freedom to heal on their terms. For some, that means practicing mindfulness meditation. For others, it’s engaging in creative expression, spending time in nature, or simply learning to sit with themselves in silence.

And while traditional faith-based treatment programs like AA have helped millions, their spiritual language, especially the emphasis on a “higher power”, can feel alienating to those who don’t believe in God or organized religion.

That’s why alternatives to AA are gaining ground.

Why People Seek Non-Religious Treatment Options

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 48.5 million people in the United States struggled with drug and alcohol addiction in the past year. And while Alcoholics Anonymous remains one of the most widely known support groups, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

AA’s religious undertones—such as turning one’s life over to a higher power—can present barriers for people who:

Identify as non-religious or spiritual-but-not-religious
Have experienced harm or exclusion from religious communities
Want a recovery model grounded in science, personal responsibility, and autonomy

As cultural norms shift and fewer Americans identify with organized religion, non-religious treatment options are becoming more visible and accessible, especially in regions like Central Texas, where community-driven recovery is gaining traction.

Alternatives to AA: Programs That Respect Your Beliefs

Thankfully, several alternatives to AA offer structured support without religious affiliation. These programs are rooted in science, empowerment, and flexibility:

Program	What It Offers
SMART Recovery	A self-empowering program that uses behavioral therapies and cognitive tools to manage cravings and promote long-term sobriety. Available through online meetings and in-person groups.
The Sinclair Method	Combines FDA-approved medication (like naltrexone) with intentional drinking to retrain the brain’s reward system—often reducing alcohol cravings over time.
Oar Health Program	A modern approach that offers telehealth, medication support, and digital coaching for those who want to moderate or quit alcohol.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)	A core component of many health services, CBT helps individuals identify and shift harmful thinking patterns that contribute to substance use.
Moderation Management	Offers tools for those who aren’t ready for full abstinence but want to reduce harm through mindful drinking and behavioral change.

These non-religious treatment options provide structure and support without relying on faith-based models. And the best part is that most of these programs are accessible through online meetings. So you can join from wherever you are.

How Non-Religious Spiritual Practices Promote Sobriety

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Just because you're not religious doesn't mean you can’t have a spiritual life. In fact, non-religious spiritual practices often help people rebuild their identity, increase resilience, and find calm during the ups and downs of recovery.

Here are several practices that support substance abuse recovery without invoking a higher power:

1. Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness trains your brain to pause, observe, and respond rather than react. It’s been shown to reduce cravings, lower anxiety, and improve emotional regulation. A 2014 study in JAMA Psychiatry found that mindfulness-based relapse prevention was as effective—if not more so—than traditional programs in preventing relapse.

2. Nature-Based Rituals

Spending time in nature, gardening, or practicing “forest bathing” can ground you in the present and foster connection without religious overtones. These experiences activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting calm and clarity.

3. Creative Expression

Art, music, writing, and dance help process complex emotions. They're not just hobbies—they're tools for spiritual exploration and emotional healing.

4. Service to Others

Volunteering or mentoring others in recovery fosters a sense of purpose. Helping someone else can shift your mindset from craving to connection.

5. Journaling & Reflection

Writing down your thoughts, goals, or reflections can uncover inner truths, track progress, and clarify what matters to you.

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Science Behind Spirituality and Recovery

Spirituality, religious or not, activates the brain’s default mode network, which is linked to introspection, empathy, and self-awareness. A study from Columbia University found that people who engage in spiritual practices (even secular ones) show greater gray matter volume in regions associated with emotional regulation and reduced stress.

These neurobiological changes help explain why people who find purpose, community, and inner calm are more likely to stay sober. In other words: spirituality works, even without religion.

How to Build a Personalized Spiritual Practice in Recovery

Creating your own spiritual path is empowering and deeply personal. Here are a few steps to get started:

Define what spirituality means to you: It could be connection, peace, meaning, or growth. Your definition matters more than anyone else’s.
Experiment with different practices: Try mindfulness meditation, journaling, nature walks, or online meetings with support groups like SMART Recovery.
Find your community: Whether online or in-person, connecting with people who share your values can reinforce your healing.
Set small, meaningful rituals: Light a candle before journaling. Take a tech-free walk each morning. These moments help build consistency and intention in your daily routine.
Revisit and revise: Your spiritual path will evolve. What worked at the beginning of your recovery might shift as you grow. And that’s okay.

Health Services Are Catching Up

In recent years, more health care providers in the United States have recognized the need for non-religious treatment options. Many now offer:

Behavioral therapies rooted in science
Secular counseling and peer-led groups
Access to online meetings for flexibility and privacy
Personalized plans that honor your beliefs and background

If you’re looking for a treatment program that respects your values and empowers your recovery journey, More Than Rehab is leading the way. With offices in Central Texas, More Than Rehab recognizes that sobriety isn’t one-size-fits-all—and that includes offering evidence-based care for those who prefer a non-religious path to healing.

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Adderall Addiction Among College Students: A Growing Concern

College life isn’t easy—late nights, endless deadlines, and the constant pressure to keep up with classes, work, and everything else. For some students, it can feel like there’s just not enough time or energy to handle it all. So, they turn to Adderall to stay focused, get more done, and keep up with the demands of college life.

This explains why Adderall is one of the most abused prescription drugs on college campuses. Recent studies show that about 20% of college students in the US abuse the drug for nonmedical reasons. They call it a study drug, treating it like an academic booster to survive the grind of college life.

The problem is that many students believe that because it’s a prescription medication, it must be safe to use. But the truth is, using Adderall without a prescription can lead to serious consequences. Misuse can quickly escalate into dependency, bring on harmful side effects, and cause long-term damage to both physical and mental health.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into why Adderall misuse is so common among college students, the dangers it poses, and how you can recognize the signs of substance use disorder. We’ll also explore steps to address the issue and where to find support for students struggling with study drug addiction.

Understanding Adderall Abuse in College

College students are under immense pressure, juggling coursework, extracurriculars, jobs, and internships, all while trying to maintain a social life. In this environment, Adderall becomes appealing because it’s known to help people concentrate for longer periods. It’s no surprise that some students use it without a prescription, believing that it’s just another academic tool.

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However, stimulants like Adderall aren’t harmless study aids. These medications are potent and can alter brain chemistry, especially if used by someone who doesn’t medically require them. Over time, misuse can lead to tolerance—meaning the student needs higher doses to achieve the same effect—and this creates a cycle of dependence that’s increasingly hard to break.

The Link Between ADHD and Misuse

Adderall is composed of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, designed to help those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) manage symptoms like inattention and impulsivity. Because there’s often a misunderstanding about the link between ADHD and “smart performance,” some students assume they can self-diagnose or that everyone can benefit from these drugs. This misconception fuels the nonmedical use of Adderall on campuses across the country, where the pressure to excel can overshadow the very real health concerns.

Why It Feels So Accessible

Adderall’s availability can also play a role. It’s not uncommon for students with legitimate prescriptions to share or sell their medication, making it easy for others to obtain. Plus, with the ongoing cultural narrative that “everyone’s doing it,” it can seem less risky than street drugs—even though the dangers are very real.

Red Flags for Parents

If you’re worried your child might be misusing Adderall, there are some key indicators to watch out for:

Erratic Sleep Patterns

What to look for: If your child is frequently staying awake for extended periods and then crashing for long hours, it may signal stimulant misuse. Complaints of difficulty sleeping or needing less sleep than usual can also be a red flag.
Why it matters: Adderall misuse disrupts natural sleep cycles, leading to severe exhaustion and long-term health consequences.

Extreme Focus Followed by Fatigue

What to look for: Periods of hyper-productivity—such as knocking out multiple assignments in record time—followed by noticeable crashes or periods of lethargy.
Why it matters: This cycle of intense focus and burnout is common in those misusing stimulants, as the body cannot sustain the artificial energy levels Adderall provides.

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Mood Swings and Anxiety

What to look for: Sudden irritability, heightened restlessness, or unexplained mood swings. Increased signs of anxiety, nervousness, or even social withdrawal may also be present.
Why it matters: Adderall can alter brain chemistry, leading to emotional instability and worsening mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

Physical Changes

What to look for: Rapid weight loss, reduced appetite, or complaints of headaches, nausea, or chest pain. You might also notice physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or increased blood pressure.
Why it matters: These physical signs indicate the toll stimulant misuse takes on the body, including cardiovascular strain and reduced overall health.

Financial or Academic Red Flags

What to look for: Unexplained expenses, frequent requests for money, or difficulty managing finances. On the academic side, you might see sudden improvements in grades paired with erratic or unsustainable work habits.
Why it matters: Buying Adderall without a prescription often involves additional costs. Academic over-performance followed by burnout can also indicate reliance on the drug.

High-Risk Behavior

What to look for: If you discover your child has tried to snort Adderall or if they are mixing it with alcohol or other substances, this is a serious red flag. Reports of risky social behavior or increased partying may also hint at misuse.
Why it matters: Combining Adderall with alcohol raises the risk of severe outcomes, including alcohol poisoning, while snorting the drug increases its potency and dangers, leading to faster dependency.

The Risks of Long-Term Use

Using Adderall long-term without a prescription harms your child’s health. Physically, it increases blood pressure, disrupts heart rhythms, and raises the risk of cardiac arrest. Mixing it with alcohol worsens the effects and can lead to dangerous outcomes like alcohol poisoning. Many students lose weight rapidly and develop nutritional deficiencies, weakening their bodies.

Mentally, the risks are equally serious. Long-term misuse leads to dependency, with students struggling to quit due to severe withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, depression, and trouble focusing. It worsens anxiety, triggers mood swings, and pushes some toward other drugs. These effects damage emotional and physical health, often lasting far beyond college years.

How You Can Help

As a parent, your support plays a crucial role in helping your child overcome Adderall misuse. Start by opening the conversation calmly and without judgment. Let your child know you care about their health and well-being, not just academic performance. Ask them how they’re feeling and listen without interrupting. This creates a safe space for them to share their struggles.

Educate your child about the risks of Adderall misuse. Many students don’t fully understand the dangers of using stimulant medication without a prescription. Explain how it affects their body and mind over time and why it’s not the solution they think it is.

If you notice signs of misuse or dependency, encourage professional help. Reach out to a behavioral health specialist who can guide your child toward treatment. Therapy options like cognitive behavioral therapy can help them manage stress and develop healthier coping strategies. For those needing more support, programs like outpatient rehab offer structured treatment while allowing them to continue their studies.

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Lastly, support your child in creating a healthier routine. Help them explore better time management, access tutoring, or find campus resources that reduce academic pressure. Remind them that their mental and physical well-being matters far more than grades, and you’re here to guide them every step of the way.

Resources and Support

If your child struggles with Adderall addiction, it’s essential to act quickly and connect them with the proper support. Professional treatment programs, like those offered by More Than Rehab, specialize in addressing stimulant addiction. These programs provide personalized care, including therapy, medical supervision, and strategies to rebuild healthy habits. Options like outpatient rehab allow your child to get the help they need while continuing their education.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Resources are available to help both you and your child overcome the challenges of Adderall addiction. Take the first step by contacting a behavioral health professional or a trusted treatment center. Together, you can help your child break free from Adderall addiction and build a healthier, more balanced future. Contact More Than Rehab today to learn how we can support you and your family. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year.

888-249-2191

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Drug Rehab: Which Path is More Successful?

If you’re considering addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the options. Inpatient and outpatient drug rehab are the two main paths, but which one is the right fit? Deciding between these can feel like a big decision, especially when you want the best chance for recovery. So, in this article, we will compare inpatient vs. outpatient drug rehab and highlight their differences, benefits and challenges to help you decide which is best suited for your recovery journey.

What is Inpatient Rehab?

Inpatient rehab, also known as residential treatment, is where you or your loved one stays at a treatment facility full-time. This means you live, sleep, and receive care all in one place. It’s a highly structured environment designed to help you focus solely on addiction recovery without the distractions of daily life. The days are filled with therapy sessions, group activities, and other treatments aimed at helping you build new, healthy habits.

Benefits of Inpatient Rehab

One of the biggest advantages of inpatient rehab is that it provides a safe, substance-free environment with constant support. You’re surrounded by medical professionals and peers who understand what you’re going through. This 24/7 support can be a game-changer, especially if you’re dealing with a severe substance use disorder.

The structure of inpatient rehab helps remove temptations and gives you a chance to reset your life. Plus, being part of a community that’s all working toward the same goal can be incredibly motivating and reassuring.

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Challenges of Inpatient Rehab

However, inpatient rehab isn’t without its challenges. It often costs more than outpatient programs because of the full-time care and accommodation. There’s also the need to step away from your regular responsibilities—work, family, or school—which isn’t always easy. But if you’re able to take this time for yourself, the focus and intensity of inpatient rehab can offer a solid foundation for long-term recovery.

What is Outpatient Rehab?

Outpatient rehab offers a different approach. Instead of staying at a facility, you attend scheduled therapy sessions while continuing to live at home. This option allows you to keep up with work, school, or other responsibilities. Outpatient programs vary in intensity, ranging from a few hours a week to more extensive commitments, like Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) or Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP).

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): In a PHP, you’ll spend several hours a day at the treatment center, usually 5-7 days a week. It’s a lot like being in an inpatient program, but you get to go home at night. This setup gives you the structure and support you need during the day while still allowing you to sleep in your own bed and be with your loved ones in the evenings.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): IOP is more flexible. You’ll attend therapy sessions a few times a week, usually for a few hours at a time. This way, you can still keep up with work, school, or other responsibilities. IOP helps you build the skills you need to stay on track while fitting more easily into your daily routine.

Benefits of Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab is often more flexible and affordable. You can maintain your daily routines, stay connected with your family members and practice the skills you learn in real-time, right in your environment. This can make the transition back into everyday life smoother compared to an inpatient setting. Plus, being surrounded by your family and friends can help reinforce your progress.

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Challenges of Outpatient Rehab

However, outpatient rehab also comes with its own set of challenges. Since you’re still exposed to daily triggers, temptations, and stressors, it requires a lot of self-discipline and a strong support network. The lack of constant supervision can be a downside if you’re struggling with severe addiction or have had trouble staying sober in the past. That’s why outpatient rehab works best when you have a safe and supportive home environment.

Comparing Success Rates: Which One Works Best?

When it comes to comparing inpatient vs. outpatient drug rehab, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The success of either option often depends on personal factors like:

The severity of your drug or alcohol addiction
Your support system
Your readiness to commit to the program.

Both inpatient and outpatient rehabs can be highly effective when they align with your specific needs. That’s why reputable drug rehab centers often understand your personal information and history upfront before treatment. This allows them to customize your care for the best results.

Research shows that both types of programs can achieve similar success rates, especially when one’s matched with the right level of care. Inpatient rehab tends to be more successful for those with severe addictions or co-occurring mental health conditions due to the structured environment and intensive support. Outpatient rehab, on the other hand, can be just as effective for those with milder addictions or strong external support systems.

Treatment Options in Inpatient Vs. Outpatient Drug Rehab

Inpatient and outpatient programs offer a lot of the same core treatments. Both typically start with detox, where you’ll receive medical care to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Once detox is complete, you’ll move into behavioral health sessions with a mental health counselor. These sessions are designed to help you uncover the root causes of your addiction, address underlying issues, and help you build healthier coping strategies.

The goal of these treatments is to help you get sober as well as arm you with relapse prevention tools to navigate recovery. You’ll learn practical ways to handle triggers, manage stress, and build a strong support system—skills that are essential for long-term success, no matter which rehab path you choose.

Treatment Options at More Than Rehab

At More Than Rehab, we offer flexible and personalized care to support your recovery journey.

MTR Houston, Texas Facility

Our Bryan location (just outside of Houston) provides detox, PHP, IOP and inpatient and outpatient options. Inpatient care offers 24/7 support in a structured setting, while our outpatient program allows you to attend therapy sessions and maintain your daily responsibilities.

MTR Dallas, Texas Facility

Our Tyler, TX facility (just outside of Dallas) offers outpatient services that include individual and group therapy, group support, and relapse prevention, all designed to fit around your schedule. You also get to enjoy a range of activities, like yoga, spiritual formation, etc., during your therapy journey.

The Watershed

Our new residential retreat is safe, secure, and serene. It is on 50 acres and offers PHP/IOP treatments as well. The Watershed is a place where you can fully focus on your recovery with comprehensive care.

MTR works closely with local organizations to ensure ongoing support, helping you stay connected and on track long after treatment. Our goal is simple: to help you or your loved one overcome addiction and build a healthy, productive life. Give us a call today. We are available24/7, all 365 days a year.

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The Importance of Counseling & Therapy in Addiction Treatment

Addiction is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes physical and psychological harm to the individual and affects their relationships and ability to function in society. While various treatment options are available, counseling and therapy are often considered essential components of an effective addiction treatment plan. These therapies can help individuals understand the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and rebuild their lives in a healthy and sustainable way.

This article will explore the importance of counseling and therapy in addiction treatment and discuss some of the key benefits and methods involved.

What is Addiction Therapy, and How Does it Help?

Addiction therapy is a multifaceted approach to treatment that helps individuals address the psychological, physical, and social factors that contribute to their addiction. It includes various techniques such as behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), and family therapy. All these aim to help the individual:

Acknowledge and accept their addiction
Identify and address any mental health issues or emotional trauma that may have contributed to their substance use
Develop new coping strategies and skills to manage their cravings and prevent relapse
Rebuild broken or strained relationships with family and friends in a healthy way
Help individuals recognize and avoid triggers to stay on track with their addiction recovery goals
Rebuild their self-esteem and increase their sense of self-worth
Identify and build a robust support system with family, friends, counselors, and other members of the recovery community
Develop an effective relapse prevention plan that combines strategies for managing cravings, avoiding high-risk situations, and developing healthy coping skills

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Alcohol or drug use can interfere with how a person functions. It can change how they think, act, learn, remember, or even pay attention. Addiction counseling and therapy can help restore cognitive functioning and provide the individual with essential tools for managing their addiction.

In cases where one struggles with mental illness and addiction, therapy and counseling can help them manage both conditions. It can also educate them on the relationship between their mental health and substance use and strategies for managing both.

How Addiction Counseling and Therapy Works

Counseling is an integral part of the addiction treatment process. It's always used in conjunction with other treatments, such as detox and medication, and typically happens in a professional rehab center. Different types of rehab options exist, including:

Inpatient rehab: Where an individual stays at the facility for a while, usually between 30 days to 6 months.

Outpatient rehab: Where an individual receives treatment at the center regularly, such as daily or weekly, but does not stay overnight.

During therapy, you'll work with your counselor to understand the root causes of your addiction and develop strategies for managing it in day-to-day life. Therapy sessions may include individual, group, or family counseling, depending on the treatment plan.

But since addiction is a relapsing disease, likely, you will still have cravings that draw you back to abusing substances. Long after you rid your body of the drugs, the brain will still remember the pleasure it felt when you used drugs and will continue to send signals of wanting more. That's why ongoing therapy is so important in addiction recovery.

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Behavioral therapies

These therapies focus on helping individuals change the behaviors and thought patterns that lead to addiction. Examples of these types of treatment include:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)is an effective treatment for addiction and mental illness. It helps individuals to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to addiction. CBT is based on the idea that an individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected and that changing one aspect can lead to changes in others.

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) was developed specifically for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, but it is effective in the treatment of addiction as well. DBT focuses on both acceptance and change, helping individuals to accept their current situation while also working towards positive change. It helps one understand the cycles between intense emotions and impulsive behavior, as well as how these can be effectively managed.

Motivational interviewing (MI)

Motivational interviewing helps individuals overcome ambivalence and develop strategies to cope with existing problems. It focuses on the individual's capacity for self-change, inviting them to consider the consequences of addiction, explore values, and negotiate goals leading to meaningful change. MI practitioners use active listening techniques and specific questions to support clients as they engage in an interactive conversation about their intrinsic motivation and potential roadblocks.

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Contingency Management

Contingency management uses positive reinforcement to encourage individuals to abstain from substance use. It rewards individuals who remain abstinent with tangible rewards, such as vouchers or other incentives, whenever they engage in desired behaviors, such as attending support groups or social activities. This can help individuals stay motivated while developing healthier habits and behaviors.

Family and Individual Therapy

Family therapy helps to repair and strengthen relationships between family members. It also often focuses on understanding how addiction has impacted the entire family, identifying needs, and developing strategies for communication and problem-solving. Individual therapy can help individuals process past traumas, build relationships and activities outside of substance use, and foster healthy coping skills for managing their addiction.

12-Step Programs

12-step programs provide a support system for peers in recovery and can help individuals recognize their powerlessness over the substance. These programs emphasize accountability, acceptance, and responsibility to foster self-improvement. The 12-step fellowship helps individuals to identify their addiction as a disease and provides them with a structure and support system to help them cope with the complex emotions that often accompany addiction. Depending on the substance of use, one can join Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Marijuana Anonymous, etc.

Get Help Today

It's never too late to seek help for addiction. With the right combination of therapy and support, recovery is possible. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use disorder, contact us today.

You don't have to go through this alone – help is available now. Reach out today and take the first step on the road to recovery. We're here for you.

888-249-2191

What Is the Best Therapy for Drug Addiction Treatment?

Your addiction treatment will vary based on a range of factors, including the level of care you need, the substance you are addicted to, your mental health, and what you can afford.

There are several treatment options available for addiction recovery. If you are unfamiliar with them, this article is for you. We will discuss the various therapies for addiction treatment to help you decide which one suits you or your loved one best.

Detoxification

Detoxification can either be part of a more extensive treatment program or a stand-alone service that various treatment facilities offer. It is an essential step for people who actively use drugs and alcohol.

Medical detox helps you get rid of addictive substances from your body. During detoxification, you will not use the drugs you are addicted to until the chemical substances leave your body.

Detox must occur in a professionally monitored environment because you are likely to experience painful or severe withdrawal symptoms. In addition, in some circumstances, withdrawal may have psychological effects.

Most drug abusers tend to revert to drug use when they experience withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, there is a need to have professional help to ensure you stay on course.

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In addition to ensuring you are safe during the withdrawal period, professionals will help ease discomfort during the withdrawal period. For example, specific medications can reduce the physical symptoms of withdrawal.

Note that detoxification does not address the underlying behavioral causes of addiction. For this reason, it is best to combine it with other therapies.

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a therapy that helps you realistically manage your behavior, emotions, and thoughts. The main goal is to help you recognize and change negative thinking patterns. This helps to overcome the mental distress and psychological patterns that can result in addiction.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proved efficient in treating alcohol and drug addiction. CBT focuses on behavioral health. It helps you recognize your unhealthy behavioral patterns and how to deal with them better. Additionally, CBT enables you to identify your triggers and develop coping skills for them.

Often, CBT is combined with other therapies to treat drug addiction.

Twelve-step facilitation therapy

Twelve-step facilitation therapy, also called 12-step programs, can effectively treat alcohol and substance abuse. This group therapy recognizes that addiction has negative physical, emotional, social, and spiritual consequences.

These 12 step programs begin with acceptance, surrender to a higher power, and finally involvement in regularly scheduled group meetings. Most support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous use the twelve-step facilitation therapy.

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Contingency Management

Contingency management treats various addictions, including tobacco, narcotics, and alcohol addiction. Its primary focus is reinforcing positive behavior, e.g., staying sober by giving you tangible rewards.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, research has demonstrated that contingency management successfully prevents relapse in recovering addicts.

Treatment with Medication

Medication plays a vital role in addiction recovery. However, it is combined with behavioral therapies for it to be effective.

Some medications suppress cravings, reduce addictive behaviors, and improve your mood. A good example is lofexidine, an FDA-approved medication for addiction treatment. Lofexidine eases withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings in patients recovering from opioid addiction.

Treatment Programs

Most addiction treatment facilities offer three treatment programs:

Residential Addiction Treatment Programs
Outpatient Addiction Treatment Programs
Peer Support and Self-Help Programs

The treatment program ideal for you significantly depends on your level of addiction and personal preference.

Residential Addiction Treatment Programs

Residential treatment programs offer intensive and comprehensive inpatient treatment. They can be for a short time (30 days), but some may extend for one year.

The advantage of this treatment program is that it incorporates a holistic approach to changing your relationship with drugs or alcohol. Often, you will undergo counseling, extensive education, and behavioral therapy to ensure you don’t revert to drug use.

Generally, residential addiction treatment programs have a multi-angled treatment approach. Most programs require you to start with detox before proceeding to other aspects of the program, including peer support and self-help programs.

Residential programs are beneficial to those who have abused drugs for an extended time and people with substance use disorders. If you got a dual diagnosis on your initial consultation, you should consider opting for residential programs.

Outpatient Addiction Treatment Programs

Outpatient treatment programs offer two services; one-time appointments and repeated appointments. Unlike residential treatment programs, you don’t have to stay at the treatment facility.

Most outpatient treatment programs focus on opioid or heroin addiction. That is because medical providers use medications like buprenorphine and methadone to control cravings and minimize the effects of opioids. You will have to visit the clinic regularly to get the medicine. Treatment facilities often require you to pass a drug test to remain in the program.

Not only does addiction affect the individual, but also family members, friends, and other people they interact with. For this reason, there is a need for counseling. Most outpatient addiction treatment programs also offer individual and family therapy in the form of counseling.

Counseling addresses underlying causes of addiction, including past trauma, depression, anger, and many others. It also mends relationships by helping family members understand the reasons for compulsive behavior.

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Peer Support and Self-Help Programs

Several support groups connect people struggling with addiction, the most common ones being Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. The main aim of support groups is to help you remain accountable for your recovery.

By sharing your experience with other people who have undergone similar experiences, you remain more encouraged on your recovery journey. Support groups have proved to be an essential tool for long-term recovery.

Choose The Type of Addiction Treatment That Suits You Best

Since you are now more familiar with the various types of addiction treatment programs, you can decide which one suits you best. We highly recommend going for a professional addiction assessment before deciding on treatment.

More Than Rehab offers high-quality, individualized addiction treatment services throughout the recovery process. Our treatment models are founded on successful national models. Contact us today to start your recovery journey.