Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT is a recommended treatment for Veterans struggling with stimulant use disorder. This therapy focuses on relationships between thoughts, feelings, behaviors and situations and helps Veterans build skills to change their unwanted behaviors and achieve their goals.

CBT is considered a short-term therapy and typically involves six to 14 sessions. Through this therapy, you learn to:

  • Cope with triggers for using stimulants, such as cravings and social pressures.

  • Manage high-risk situations.

  • Reinforce behaviors that align with your recovery goals.

  • Challenge thoughts that lead to and follow stimulant use.

If you choose CBT, you will be asked to:

  • Commit to attending regular sessions.

  • Work with your provider to set treatment goals.

  • Identify triggers for using stimulants.

  • Practice—outside therapy sessions—the skills you learn in therapy.

To learn more about CBT, speak with your mental health provider or ask your primary care provider for a referral to a therapist.