Cognitive Behavior Therapy or CBT is a widely studied approach that has been found to be effective in treating a variety of problems, including managing alcoholic abuse and other addictive substances(marijuana, cocaine, heroin etc). It is a relatively straightforward approach to therapy that involves the development of skills that can help individuals cope more effectively and improve relationships. There are many different individual techniques with CBT system, some of which are particularly useful in treating substance abuse. These include Cognitive Restructuring or Disputing irrational Beliefs, Emotion regulation, Mindfulness practice, and Moderate drinking Training for problems Drinkers. Other helpful skills for substance abuse problems include Relaxation, Communication skills Training and Relapse Prevention.

We believe that it is vital to distinguish between the spirit of motivational interviewing and techniques that we have recommended manifesting that spirit. Clinicians and Trainers who become too focused on matters of technique can lose sight of the spirit and style that are central to the approach. there are as many key variations in technique as there are clinical encounters. The spirit of the method, however, is more enduring and can be characterized in a few key points

Motivation to change is elicited from the client and not imposed

It is the client’s task, not the counselor’s, to articulate and resolve his or her ambivalence

Direct Persuasion is not an effective method for resolving ambivalence

The Counseling style is generally quiet and eliciting one

The Counselor is directive in helping the client to examine and resolve ambivalence

Readiness to change is not a client trait, but a fluctuating product of interpersonal interaction

The Therapeutic relationship is more like a partnership or companionship than expert/recipient roles. The therapist respects the client’s autonomy and freedom of choice (and consequences) regarding hos or her own behavior