Cognitive restructuring and the 12-step program of alcoholics anonymous.

Alcohol addiction affects many clients that enter the offices of traditional mental health professionals. Their recovery is impacted by what goes on inside the office, in treatment, as well as by involvement outside the office, in 12-step programs as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). This article examines alcoholism as a thought disorder and cognitive restructuring as an effective model of treatment. Cognitive restructuring occurs in therapy and in AA. It can, therefore, be the bridge that encourages understanding and cooperation between the two factors influencing recovery.