Community Reinforcement Approach
A behavioral treatment for substance use disorders that rearranges lifestyle reinforcers, such as work, family, and social relationships, to support sobriety over substance use.
What Is Community Reinforcement Approach?
The community reinforcement approach is a comprehensive behavioral treatment for substance use disorders that works to rearrange a person’s lifestyle so that positive reinforcement from work, family, social relationships, and recreational activities supports sobriety more strongly than substance use does.
How It Works
This approach is based on the understanding that substance use is maintained in part by the reinforcement it provides, and that building a rewarding, substance-free lifestyle across multiple life domains can outcompete these reinforcers. This description uses original explanatory language.
What Happens During Therapy?
Treatment typically addresses multiple life areas, including relationship counseling, employment counseling, social and recreational counseling, and skills training, often alongside strategies for managing cravings and preventing relapse.
Evidence and Effectiveness
Research supports the community reinforcement approach for alcohol and other substance use disorders, with evidence from multiple randomized controlled trials, particularly when combined with contingency management.
Who May Benefit?
The community reinforcement approach may be considered for people with substance use disorders seeking a comprehensive, lifestyle-focused approach to recovery.
Limitations and Considerations
This approach can be resource-intensive, addressing multiple life domains, and requires active engagement across several areas of functioning.
Finding a Qualified Therapist
The community reinforcement approach is delivered by addiction counselors, psychologists, and other professionals trained in this comprehensive model.
How Long Does Therapy Take?
Community reinforcement approach programs often extend over several months, given their comprehensive, multi-domain focus.
Therapy vs. Medication
The community reinforcement approach is a behavioral treatment and may be combined with medication-assisted treatment, in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
What Conditions Is It Used For?
Related Therapy Types
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Evidence-Based Practices Resource Center.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment.
- American Psychological Association. Clinical Practice Guidelines.