The Power of Cognitive-behavior Therapy in America's Drug Courts

Abstract

For over a century our nation has struggled with various forms and degrees of substance abuse. Its far-reaching impact has threatened Americans regardless of their demographic profiles. It can be a debilitating force threatening the health, well being and very livelihood of our existence. As hard as we have tried to lock it up behind penal bars and throw away the key ... it looms over our heads like a dark cloud. When finally, arrives a better way ... the inception of the Drug Treatment Court. Utilizing the Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Drug Courts are targeted at addressing the root cause of the substance abuse battle ... not merely treating the symptom or building more jails to lock it away. This examination highlights the strengths of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and its direct application to today's drug problems in America.