Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA)

With the Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA), therapists aim to move people toward recovery by eliminating positive reinforcements for drinking and drug use. Therapists also focus on enhancing positive reinforcement for non-drinking and non-drug use behaviors and activities. This approach integrates several treatment components: building motivation to quit, analyzing drinking/drug use patterns, increasing pleasurable activities, learning new coping behaviors, and involving significant others in the recovery process.

Therapists may encourage patients to include another individual who shares time with them in treatment such as a spouse or significant other. This person is often helpful in recognizing triggers that may be more difficult for the patient to notice (e.g., irritability). During treatment, the patient learns practical skills to meet individually established goals. These tend to focus on communication, problem-solving, and effective ways to manage invitations to drink or use drugs. The overall goal of CRA is to help individuals find healthier ways to meet social and emotional needs.