The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques for the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders: A Narrative Review of Evidence

J Nerv Ment Dis. 2021 Nov 1;209(11):835-845. doi: 10.1097/NMD.0000000000001381.

Abstract

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are characterized by a recurrent and maladaptive use of drugs and/or alcohol. Cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) comprise different types of interventions: traditional CBT and the more recent "third wave" behavior therapies, such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and schema therapy (ST). We searched English-language articles published between 2014 and present. This review includes randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-RCTs, pilot studies, and reviews of CBTs for SUDs available on PubMed. Results seem to indicate that CBT and MBCT are effective interventions for SUDs; however, the studies showed a high degree of heterogeneity, so no exhaustive conclusions could be outlined at this time. ACT and DBT in SUD management are limited to few studies and results are therefore inconclusive.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / therapy*