If you’ve been struggling with addiction, anxiety, or depression, you may have heard of CBT, but what is cognitive behavioral therapy?
At its core, CBT helps you understand how your thoughts shape your emotions and behaviors. With the right support, it gives you the power to interrupt negative cycles and build healthier patterns—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
At The Raleigh House, we use CBT as part of our integrated approach to addiction and mental health treatment at both our Denver-area locations. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, depression, or substance use, CBT offers practical tools that lead to lasting change.
Continue reading to learn more.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented form of talk therapy designed to help individuals recognize and shift unhelpful thinking patterns.
It’s based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are deeply connected, and that by changing our thoughts, we can change our actions and outcomes.
CBT is widely used to treat a range of mental health conditions, including substance use disorders (SUD), depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more.
What Makes CBT Evidence-Based?
CBT is one of the most researched forms of psychotherapy. It’s been clinically proven to improve symptoms for many mental health conditions and is considered a gold-standard treatment for substance use disorder and dual diagnosis.
Because it’s structured and measurable, it allows both clients and therapists to track progress in real time.
At The Raleigh House, CBT is used alongside other therapies to create personalized, whole-person recovery plans.
The Benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT helps:
- Identify and challenge distorted thought patterns.
- Build healthy coping strategies for stress and cravings.
- Improve emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships.
- Gain insight into how early experiences affect current behavior.
- Develop confidence and problem-solving skills.
Ultimately, CBT empowers people to take an active role in their healing journey.
CBT for Anxiety, Depression, and Addiction
CBT is especially effective for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. At The Raleigh House, we often use CBT to help clients manage:
- Generalized anxiety disorder and panic attacks.
- Depression and low motivation.
- Obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
- Triggers for alcohol or drug use.
By addressing both the addiction and the underlying emotional patterns, CBT supports more sustainable recovery outcomes.
Types of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Denver, CO
CBT is flexible and can be adapted based on your individual needs and goals. Our team of licensed therapists at The Raleigh House will work with you to determine the most effective CBT format for your recovery.
Individual and Group CBT Sessions
Some clients benefit most from one-on-one CBT sessions where they can explore personal triggers and behaviors. Others find strength and shared insight in group CBT settings. We offer both options, and they may be combined throughout your care.
In either format, our master’s-level clinicians create a safe, compassionate space for growth.
CBT for Dual Diagnosis & Trauma Recovery
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a foundational tool in our dual diagnosis treatment programs. It helps clients explore how trauma, anxiety, or depression contribute to substance use and equips them with healthier ways to cope.
Whether you’re navigating past trauma or current emotional distress, CBT provides structure and support for healing.
CBT Techniques Used at The Raleigh House
Our clinicians use a range of CBT techniques to help clients understand and transform their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Thought Monitoring and Cognitive Restructuring
This technique teaches clients to recognize automatic negative thoughts and challenge them with evidence. Over time, this helps reduce anxiety, self-criticism, and irrational fears.
Behavioral Activation Techniques
These strategies encourage engagement in meaningful, mood-boosting activities, even when motivation is low. Behavioral activation is beneficial for those battling depression or post-acute withdrawal.
Exposure Therapy and Problem-Solving Skills
CBT can include exposure-based methods to help clients face fears in a controlled, supportive setting. Problem-solving exercises help individuals navigate real-life stressors without falling back into harmful habits.
Where Do I Find Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Near Me?
The Raleigh House offers CBT as a core component of our holistic addiction and mental health treatment programs at two Colorado locations:
- The Ranch at The Raleigh House: Located on a scenic 40-acre property outside Denver, The Ranch provides a peaceful environment for residential treatment and outdoor therapy.
- The Center for Integrative Behavioral Health: Situated in the Denver Tech Center, this modern outpatient facility offers flexible scheduling and advanced clinical care for those balancing recovery with daily life.
Both locations use CBT and other evidence-based modalities to create customized treatment plans that support lasting transformation.
Experience CBT in Denver with The Raleigh House
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you take back control from the thoughts and patterns that no longer serve you. At The Raleigh House, we believe in whole-person healing.
Whether you need residential care at The Ranch or outpatient support at our Center for Integrative Behavioral Health, our compassionate team is here to guide you.
Contact us today to learn how CBT can support your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About CBT
If you’re considering CBT for yourself or a loved one, here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from clients.
What is cognitive behavioral therapy?
CBT is a type of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It’s commonly used to treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Is CBT effective for addiction?
Yes. CBT is one of the most effective treatments for substance use disorder, especially when combined with other therapies in a dual diagnosis program.
What conditions does CBT treat?
CBT is a type of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It’s commonly used to treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
How long does CBT take to work?
Many clients start seeing improvements within a few weeks, but long-term success depends on individual goals and consistency in treatment.
Is CBT available in group therapy at The Raleigh House?
Yes. We offer both individual and group CBT sessions, depending on your treatment plan and preferences.