Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was developed as a method to prevent relapse when treating problem drinking, and was later adapted for cocaine-addicted individuals. Individuals in CBT learn to identify and correct problematic behaviors by applying a range of different skills that can be used to stop drug use and to address other problems that often co-occur with it. CBT usually involves 12 to 24 weekly individual sessions. These sessions typically explore the positive and negative consequences of substance use, and they use self-monitoring as a mechanism to recognize cravings and other situations that may lead the individual to relapse. They also help the individual develop coping strategies.
Addiction Policy Forum released a video explainer on CBT, an important therapy in the treatment of substance use disorders.