Behavior Modification in Recovery

Changing any behaviors will vary depending on the specific behaviors and or addiction, the behaviors needing to be modified and the individual seeking treatment, but generally behavior modification in recovery includes the following steps:

1. Acknowledging the problem: The first step in behavior modification recovery is admitting that there is a problem, and that help is needed. This can be a difficult step. An addicted person may contemplate seeking help but must reach the stage where they are ready to begin the journey to recovery.  The patient’s motivation and commitment are essential to achieving behavioral and lifestyle changes to build long-term success. Dr. Pazak will help you to explore these very personal issues.
2. Detoxification: If the problem is substance abuse, detoxification may be necessary to remove the drugs or alcohol from the body. This can be a challenging and sometimes dangerous process, so it may require medical supervision during this step.
3. Comprehensive assessment: Comprehensive assessment requires psychological and social assessments to determine the patient’s needs in order to create a personalized behavior modification recovery plan.
4. Developing a recovery plan: A recovery plan can help individuals set goals and establish strategies for changing behaviors. This can include identifying triggers and developing new coping mechanisms, creating a support system to help handle triggers to avoid relapses, and building skills that support lasting recovery including developing healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety.
5. Treatment: Treatment can take many forms, including inpatient or outpatient programs, individual or group therapy, support groups, and medication-assisted treatment. The specific type of treatment will depend on the individual’s needs and the severity of the addiction.
6. Continuing care and support: Recovery is an ongoing process, and it’s important to continue to prioritize self-care and sobriety after treatment has ended. This may involve ongoing therapy, coaching or support group meetings, regular check-ins with a Dr. Pazak, and avoiding triggers and risky situations.

Recovery may include an array of professionals. Seeking help and support from trained professionals such as Clinical Psychologist Dr. Susan Pazak, and support from loved ones can be key factors in successfully overcoming addiction.

Common principles that many behavior modification recovery programs, and Dr. Pazak follow, include:

• Evidence-based practices: Many behavior modification and recovery programs use evidence-based practices that have been shown to be effective in treating addiction. These may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and medication-assisted treatment. For instance, when treating addictions to opioids the first line treatment is medication combined with behavioral therapy or counseling. Medication may also be used to detoxify the individual.
• Individualized treatment plans: Behavior modification recovery programs are individualized treatment plans that consider a person’s unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. Treatment plans should be flexible and able to be adjusted as needed throughout the recovery process.
• Comprehensive care: Behavior modification recovery programs should provide comprehensive care that addresses a person’s physical, emotional, and social needs. This may include medical care, therapy, social support, and help with finding employment and housing. It may also include helping the family affected by their loved one’s addiction with family counseling and support groups.
• Aftercare and ongoing support: Behavior change, and recovery is an ongoing process, and addiction recovery programs should provide aftercare and ongoing support to help people maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. This may include ongoing therapy, support group meetings, and regular check-ins with a healthcare provider.