Many people believe that simply signing up for therapy will put them on the perfect path to healing. And while that’s an important step, there’s another piece to consider: choosing the right treatment modalities.
A “treatment modality” is the approach or tool a therapist or treatment team uses…and there is a wide variety to choose from. For example, at Charter Oak Hospital, we use trusted methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Medically Assisted Detox (MAD). We’ve selected these therapeutic modalities based on clinical expertise, proven effectiveness, and our commitment to helping patients heal safely and sustainably.
The purpose of this page is to explain in more detail why our team of experts has chosen these approaches and how each one is designed to meet specific conditions and needs. Our hope is that this information allows you to make better-informed choices as you seek care that aligns with your individual situation and treatment goals.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used and researched modalities when it comes to mental health care. It was developed in the 1960s by psychiatrist Dr. Aaron Beck, who discovered that many emotional struggles stem from unhelpful or distorted thinking patterns. Since then, years and years of research have supported CBT as one of the top treatments for a wide range of conditions.
CBT focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. When negative or automatic thoughts go unchecked, they can increase anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, and other challenges. Using CBT, patients learn how to identify their patterns, challenge them, and replace them with more accurate and well-rounded ways of thinking.
CBT can be helpful for people experiencing:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma and PTSD symptoms
- Substance use disorders
- Mood swings
- Low self-esteem
- Stress from life transitions
At Charter Oak Hospital, CBT is integrated into our inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient programs. With constant practice and instruction, CBT helps people feel more grounded, more confident, and more in control of their emotions and behaviors.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, was developed in the late 1980s by a psychologist, Dr. Marsha Linehan, to support individuals who experience intense emotions, impulsivity, or chronic suicidal thoughts. Over the years, DBT has grown into one of the most respected modalities for improving emotional stability and creating long-term behavioral change.
DBT combines cognitive-behavioral skills with mindfulness practices. Its core philosophy is that two ideas can be true at once; you can accept yourself as you are while also working toward positive change. This balance is what makes DBT so effective.
DBT teaches four primary skill areas:
- Mindfulness: staying present and aware
- Distress tolerance: handling crises without making things worse
- Emotion regulation: managing overwhelming emotions
- Interpersonal effectiveness: building strong, healthy relationships
DBT is often recommended for individuals who struggle with:
- Intense mood swings
- Impulsive behaviors
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
- Trauma symptoms
- Borderline personality traits
- Relationship instability
- Substance use combined with emotional dysregulation
DBT is offered at Charter Oak Hospital through individual therapy and group skills training. Over time, DBT can help people build emotional resilience, improve their communication, and create more meaningful connections.
Medically Assisted Detox (MAT)
Medically Assisted Detox, often called MAT, is a safer and supervised way to withdraw from drugs or alcohol. Detoxing alone can be overwhelming and, in some cases, even physically dangerous. MAT ensures the process is managed carefully and comfortably.
MAT became widely supported in the early 2000s as research explored the effect of medications in easing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings. With the proper medical support, research suggests that detox becomes safer and more manageable for individuals beginning their recovery.
MAT is often recommended for people who use:
- Alcohol
- Opioids (such as heroin, fentanyl, or prescription pain medications)
- Benzodiazepines
- Substances that cause strong physical withdrawal
At Charter Oak Hospital, our MAT program includes:
- 24-hour nursing care
- Medical supervision from experienced physicians
- Medications to ease withdrawal and reduce cravings
- Careful monitoring of physical and emotional well-being
- A clear plan to transition into therapeutic treatment
Detox is only the first step in recovery. The goal of Aurora Charter Oak’s MAT program is not just to stabilize physically but to prepare patients for the deeper emotional and behavioral work that inevitably comes next. When detox is complete, our team helps patients move into ongoing care—such as CBT or DBT—so healing can continue without interruption.
Finding the Right Path for You
Choosing the right treatment approach can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure where to begin. You don’t have to navigate that alone.
At Charter Oak Hospital, our team offers free and confidential assessments around the clock. We are happy to chat with you about all our therapeutic options and programs so you can choose the most appropriate solution for your needs.
Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time, continuing treatment after detox, or seeking a higher level of care, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Call (800) 654-2673 or visit 1161 E. Covina Blvd, Covina, CA 91724 to begin your confidential assessment.
