Restructure the thought patterns that fuel addiction and mental health disorders. PAT is the foundation of every treatment program at Valley Spring.
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy that examines the connection between thinking, behavior, and outcomes. Developed over 50 years of clinical research, PAT helps individuals identify distorted thought patterns — the automatic assumptions and beliefs that drive self-destructive behavior — and replace them with healthier, more accurate ways of thinking.
In the context of addiction treatment, PAT is particularly effective because substance use often begins as a coping mechanism for emotional pain, stress, or untreated mental health conditions. By addressing the cognitive roots of addictive behavior, clients develop practical skills to manage triggers, regulate emotions, and make decisions that support long-term recovery.
At Valley Spring Recovery Center, every therapist on our clinical team uses PAT in both individual and group sessions. It is woven into every level of care — from Partial Care through outpatient — making it the therapeutic backbone of our entire treatment model.
Your therapist helps you recognize automatic negative thoughts — the cognitive distortions that fuel anxiety, depression, and addictive behavior. These might include catastrophizing, black-and-white thinking, or personalization. Awareness is the first step toward change.
Once identified, distorted thoughts are examined through evidence-based questioning. Is the thought factually accurate? What evidence supports or contradicts it? This process weakens the grip of irrational beliefs and creates space for healthier interpretations.
You build a practical toolkit of behavioral techniques — including thought records, behavioral experiments, exposure exercises, and relaxation training. These are rehearsed in session and applied in real life between appointments.
As thinking shifts, behavior follows. Clients learn to respond to triggers with intention rather than impulse. Relapse prevention planning, stress management, and emotional regulation become second nature — skills that last far beyond treatment.
PAT is designed to make you your own therapist. The final phase focuses on maintaining gains independently — identifying early warning signs, reinforcing new patterns, and building confidence in your ability to navigate challenges without substances.
At Valley Spring Recovery Center, PAT isn't a standalone service — it's the therapeutic foundation of every program we offer. Every clinician on our team is trained in cognitive behavioral techniques, and every client receives PAT in both individual and group settings. Our Mental Health Program dedicates Week 1 to PAT fundamentals and Week 3 to cognitive flexibility, ensuring clients build skills progressively. With an 8:1 client-to-therapist ratio and CARF accreditation, we deliver PAT with the clinical rigor and personal attention that lasting recovery demands.
Same-day assessments available. Most major insurance accepted. CARF accredited outpatient care in Bergen County, NJ.
In Partial Care (PHP), PAT is delivered daily through intensive individual and group sessions. Clients build foundational cognitive awareness during the most critical early phase of recovery.
IOP 5-Day programming uses PAT to transition skills from the clinical setting to daily life. Structured thought records and behavioral experiments are practiced between sessions.
IOP 3-Day and Virtual IOP refine PAT skills for independent application. Clients practice real-world problem solving while maintaining therapeutic support and accountability.
Outpatient and Alumni programming maintains PAT gains long-term. Clients become their own cognitive therapists — identifying distortions and reframing autonomously.
PAT is an evidence-based psychotherapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By identifying and restructuring distorted thinking patterns, clients learn to change the behaviors and emotional responses that contribute to addiction and mental health disorders.
Every therapist at Valley Spring uses PAT in both individual and group sessions across all program levels. PAT is integrated into Partial Care, IOP 5-Day, IOP 3-Day, Virtual IOP, and Outpatient programming. Our Mental Health Program dedicates specific weeks to PAT fundamentals and cognitive flexibility.
Many clients report noticeable improvements within the first few weeks of consistent PAT practice. Meaningful cognitive restructuring typically develops over 8 to 16 sessions, though the skills learned in PAT continue to strengthen with ongoing practice even after formal treatment ends.
PAT is highly effective for anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and dual diagnosis conditions. At Valley Spring, PAT addresses both substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders simultaneously, which is critical for lasting recovery.
Sessions typically begin with a review of the previous week's experiences and homework. Your therapist will help you identify specific thoughts or situations that triggered distress, examine the evidence for and against those thoughts, and develop alternative interpretations. Sessions end with practical assignments to practice new skills in daily life.
Yes. PAT is one of the most researched and effective approaches for relapse prevention. It teaches clients to identify high-risk situations, recognize early warning signs, challenge craving-related thoughts, and deploy coping strategies before a lapse occurs. These skills remain effective long after treatment concludes.
Most major insurance plans cover PAT as part of our outpatient treatment programs. Valley Spring accepts a wide range of insurance providers and offers complimentary insurance verification. Call (201) 781-8812 or visit our insurance verification page to confirm your coverage.
Absolutely. Valley Spring's Virtual IOP program delivers the same evidence-based PAT curriculum via secure telehealth. Clients participate in individual and group PAT sessions from home, maintaining continuity of care while managing work, family, and other responsibilities.