Training Description:

This training outlines how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy principles can be applied to identify and restructure unhealthy thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and enhance problem-solving skills in clients with substance use disorders. This training includes a brief introduction to relapse-prevention techniques designed to anticipate high-risk situations. Counselors who complete this training gain practical tools for helping clients modify thought and behavior patterns that contribute to continued substance use.

Course Learning Objectives

  1. Explain Core CBT Concepts Relevant To Treating Substance Use Disorders

  2. Identify and Restructure Cognitive Distortions In Substance Use

  3. Develop Practical Coping Strategies to Strengthen Clients’ Ability to Cope With Triggers and Cravings

  4. Enhance Problem-Solving Abilities For Life Stressors and Challenges Which Contribute to Continued Substance Use

  5. Integrate CBT Into Individualized Treatment Plans

Receiving Credit: In order to receive credit for the training you must complete the interactive question within the training. If you do not complete the embedded quizes, when you get to end of the training you will not receive credit until you complete the embedded quiz questions. In Addition, you must complete the 50 item quiz at the end of the training and receive at least an 85% before receiving your certificate. You do have the option of retaking the quiz until you reach the approved score. Once you submit your quiz, you will receive your certificate within 24 hours.

Training illustration

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Training Agenda
  1. Course Introduction (10 minutes)

  2. Core CBT Principles & Theoretical Model (20 minutes)

  3. Automatic Thoughts & Cognitive Distortions (20 minutes)

  4. Cognitive Restructuring Skills (20 minutes)

  5. Functional Analysis: Triggers, Cues & Cravings (15 minutes)

  6. Coping Skills Training (mindfulness, relaxation, urge surfing) (20 minutes)

  7. Behavioral Activation, Problem-Solving & Relapse-Prevention Planning (20 minutes)

  8. Course Wrap-Up & Final Assessment (10 minutes)

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Additional Resources Related To This Training

Concepts of CBT and Strengths-Based Approaches to Addiction



Articles Related To This Training

  1. The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques for the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders

  2. An Evaluation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic Review and Application of the Society of Clinical Psychology Criteria for Empirically Supported Treatments

  3. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders

  4. Understanding eHealth Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Targeting Substance Use: Realist Review

  5. Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders Among Psychiatric Inpatients: An Intervention for Opioid Misuse