Addiction and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

Break Free from Addiction: Discover the Power of REBT

Addiction can feel like an endless cycle of pain, shame, and loss of control. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a powerful, evidence-based approach designed to help individuals overcome addictive behaviors by addressing the root cause of emotional and behavioral disturbances: irrational beliefs.

Whether you’re struggling with substance use, gambling, overeating, or any other compulsive behavior*, REBT provides the tools to regain control, reshape your mindset, and build a life of meaning and freedom

*Restartt therapist do not subscribe to the disease model of addiction and take a harm reduction approach.

How Does REBT Help with Addiction

REBT works by identifying and challenging the thoughts and beliefs that drive addictive behaviors. Many people turn to addiction as a way to cope with uncomfortable emotions or situations. REBT helps break this cycle by showing you that:

  • Your thoughts, not external events, fuel your emotional responses.
    Addiction often thrives on feelings of helplessness, shame, or anger. REBT helps you uncover the irrational beliefs that lead to these emotions and replace them with healthier, empowering thoughts.

  • You don’t have to avoid discomfort.
    Addiction can arise from discomfort anxiety—be it boredom, stress, or withdrawal symptoms. REBT teaches that discomfort is temporary and bearable, allowing you to face it without resorting to harmful behaviors.

  • You are not defined by your addiction.
    REBT promotes unconditional self-acceptance, helping you separate your self-worth from your behavior. You are not your addiction, and you have the power to change.

    1. Breaking the Cycle of Negative Thinking
      REBT helps you identify and dispute the irrational thoughts that keep you stuck in addictive patterns.

    2. Building Emotional Resilience
      By learning to tolerate discomfort and challenge self-defeating beliefs, you develop the resilience needed to navigate triggers and setbacks.

    3. Focusing on the Present
      While REBT acknowledges past influences, the focus is on what you can change now—your thoughts, feelings, and actions.

    4. Empowering Self-Responsibility
      REBT emphasizes that while you cannot always control external events, you can control how you think and respond to them.

    5. Creating Long-Term Change
      Unlike quick fixes, REBT fosters a sustainable mindset shift, equipping you with tools to prevent relapse and build healthier habits.

    • Identify Activating Events (A): Understand the situations or events that influence to cravings or addictive behaviors.

    • Uncover Irrational Beliefs (B): Pinpoint the thoughts fueling your emotional responses and addictive tendencies.

    • Dispute Irrational Beliefs (D): Challenge those beliefs through logic, evidence, and new perspectives.

    • Develop Effective Coping Strategies (E): Replace irrational beliefs with healthier ones and practice new behaviors that align with your recovery goals.

  • REBT is especially effective for individuals who want to take an active role in their recovery. It’s a great fit if you’re ready to:

    • Understand the "why" behind your addiction.

    • Challenge self-defeating thought patterns.

    • Build emotional resilience to overcome cravings.

    • Develop tools for lasting change.

Take the First Step Toward Freedom

Recovery from addiction is not just about stopping a behavior; it’s about transforming how you think, feel, and live. With Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, you can break free from the grip of addiction, build healthier habits, and regain control over your life.

Are you ready to take the first step? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward lasting change.

Why Choose Us?

  • Expert therapists trained in REBT and addiction treatment.

  • A compassionate, non-judgmental approach to your unique journey.

  • Evidence-based methods that empower you to take control of your recovery.