Community Reinforcement Approach Summary

The community reinforcement approach is useful for those who have been diagnosed with a co-occurring disorder in that it gives them a sense of purpose. It allows them to find something that they enjoy and are good at and takes their mind off of their disorder and their addiction. It shows them that they do have a place where they belong and will not be judged. This approach teaches individuals with co-occurring disorders essential life skills that will help them live productive substance-free lives. As part of this treatment approach, counselors teach behavioral skills, job counseling, social and recreational counseling, marital and family therapy, and relapse prevention techniques (Dijkstra & Roozen, 2012). Addicts in recovery learn effective communication skills, problem-solving skills, job counseling and interviewing tips and suggestions, and new coping mechanisms to use when they feel stressed or overwhelmed. …show more content…
Even individuals with a co-occurring disorder can succeed when this approach is used because they can recognize positive changes in their lives, but there are certain co-occurring disorders that may require further consideration. People suffering from social anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and individuals with a schizophrenic disorder require further consideration for this approach to treating their addiction. Individuals diagnosed with these co-occurring disorders could experience difficulty when trying to relate to others in social settings (McNeece & DiNitto, 2012). This means that they could feel less comfortable in the group setting where the life skills are being taught and may require individual sessions to learn these