To support individuals with substance use or mental health issues, it’s essential to address negative thought patterns and promote healthy coping mechanisms. This is where cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can provide valuable support. It can pave the way to eliminate this behavior by removing negative thoughts and feelings.
Including CBT as part of your loved one’s teen therapy services will make a tremendous difference in their treatment. Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® offers adolescent therapy programs in North Carolina that effectively treat substance use and mental health conditions. Our mental health professionals know the value of CBT and strive to help each teenage boy they work with realize its benefits. Get started today by calling us at 828.519.5047.
Understanding the Basics of CBT for Teens
The basics of cognitive-behavioral therapy for teens and adults are the same. The main idea is that our thoughts significantly impact our behaviors. For example, let’s say that people obsessively think about car crashes. They might avoid going anywhere in a car because they don’t want to get into an accident.
This fundamental idea is the basis for all cognitive-behavioral therapy. The idea that a specific way of thinking can change people’s behaviors is a powerful concept. During CBT, the goal is to teach people that they can’t always control the world around them. Despite that, they can learn how to deal with or interpret their experiences in healthier ways.
Are There Any Risks Associated with CBT for Teenagers?
The great thing about cognitive-behavioral therapy is that there’s minimal risk. Although, some people tend to feel uncomfortable when they first start the process. This discomfort stems from the therapy diving deep into and exploring experiences and emotions they might find painful. However, exploring these experiences is important so the brain can reprocess them.
In some cases, cognitive-behavioral therapy might involve activities that cause stress and anxiety. For instance, let’s go back to people who fear car crashes. To help them overcome this concern, they might go for car rides. Therapists always put their client’s needs first and keep all risks to a minimum.
How Can CBT Help Teens with Substance Use?
CBT also helps people find the root cause of their substance use. Then, it can help them overcome those issues. Many times, the root cause of substance use is an underlying mental health condition. Some examples of these mental health conditions can include:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Sleeping disorders
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
In some cases, though, CBT isn’t enough to overcome a mental health condition alone. For that reason, Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® might combine CBT with other clinical modalities. Only doctors can decide when people need to take medications to manage their mental health conditions. A rehab center will conduct psychological evaluations to determine the needs of its clients.
What to Expect During Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Your Teen
When people do cognitive-behavioral therapy, they try to change their thoughts. This is accomplished by talking to a therapist and exploring bad thoughts and feelings—which can help them eliminate harmful behaviors like substance use.
As they explore their negative thoughts and feelings, a therapist may guide them with exercises like:
- Journaling: This is where somebody writes about their emotions and thoughts
- Role-playing: This is where people act out different scenarios with their therapist
- Breathing exercises: These exercises help people relax when they feel anxious
- Group therapy: This is where people talk about their experiences with other people who have similar issues
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is usually a short-term treatment. That’s because the goal is to help people deal with their thoughts and feelings so that they can overcome their disorders. CBT lasts for around 12 weeks. Although, some people might need more or less time depending on their situation.
Advantages of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Adolescents
One of the primary advantages of cognitive-behavioral therapy for teens is its ability to offer targeted interventions that cater to the adolescent age group. This form of therapy provides a structured environment where teens can learn to identify and reframe negative thought patterns, fostering a greater sense of personal agency and resilience. CBT equips teens with practical coping mechanisms that can be applied across various scenarios, promoting better emotional regulation and decision-making skills.
Here are some significant benefits of CBT for your teen:
- Promotes self-awareness: Encourages teens to recognize and understand their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
- Builds coping strategies: Provides tools for managing stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms effectively.
- Improves communication: Enhances interpersonal skills, aiding in expressing feelings and establishing healthier relationships.
- Encourages problem-solving: Teaches practical techniques for tackling challenges, boosting confidence and independence.
- Prevents relapse: In cases of substance use, cognitive-behavioral therapy for teens helps in identifying triggers and developing strategies to maintain sobriety.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy for teens presents a comprehensive approach to mental health care, addressing the unique challenges faced during adolescence and laying a solid foundation for future well-being.
Call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® to Enroll Your Teen in Our Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Program
Does your teen struggle with substance use? Are you looking for an adolescent treatment center in the North Carolina area? If so, Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® has just what you need. We specialize in providing mental health and substance use treatment for adolescents. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping your teen overcome their challenges and thrive in life.
Get the help your teen boy needs at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery. Reach out to our friendly team by calling us at 828.519.5047 or using our online contact form.
