A Holistic Approach to Treating Behavioral Addictions

Behavioral addictions — such as gambling, gaming, compulsive shopping, or excessive internet use — can be just as disruptive to a person’s life as substance use disorder (SUD). They affect mental health, relationships, finances, and overall well-being. At West Coast Recovery Centers, we recognize that recovery from these addictions requires more than simply addressing the surface behavior; rather, it requires a comprehensive approach that treats the mind, body, and spirit.

Our holistic treatment model combines evidence-based therapies with personalized care through our partial hospitalization program (PHP) and intensive outpatient program (IOP). This integrated approach ensures clients receive the clinical support they need while also developing practical tools for lasting change. 

Understanding Behavioral Addictions

Unlike SUD, behavioral addictions do not involve an external chemical. Instead, the addictive cycle is driven by the brain’s reward system. Engaging in certain activities releases dopamine, creating feelings of pleasure and reinforcement. Over time, individuals may find themselves unable to control the urge to engage in the behavior, despite negative consequences.

Common behavioral addictions include:

• Gambling disorder: Persistent and problematic gambling behavior that facilitates distress and impairment.
• Gaming disorder: Excessive video game use that interferes with daily life.
• Compulsive shopping: Repeated, impulsive spending despite financial harm.
• Hypersexuality: Uncontrollable sexual behaviors or thoughts that cause emotional and relational difficulties.

Although the addiction might not involve substances, the emotional, neurological, and behavioral challenges are similar. Effective treatment must address both the underlying triggers and the learned patterns that keep the cycle going.

Evidence-Based Therapies: The Foundation of Recovery

At West Coast Recovery Centers, evidence-based therapies provide the backbone of our treatment for behavioral addictions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of our primary tools. CBT helps clients identify and change distorted thinking patterns that drive addictive behaviors.

For example, someone struggling with gambling might believe, “I’m due for a win,” or “If I play just one more round, I’ll get my money back.” CBT works to challenge these cognitive distortions and replace them with healthier, reality-based thinking.

Another evidence-based modality that we offer is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). This is used to help build skills, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. By blending these scientifically supported approaches, we lay a strong clinical foundation for each client’s recovery journey.

Personalized PHP & IOP Care

Recovery is not one-size-fits-all, and neither are our programs. West Coast Recovery Centers offers two levels of structured outpatient care:

• Partial hospitalization program (PHP): This is our most intensive level of outpatient treatment, designed for individuals who require daily therapeutic support without 24-hour residential care. PHP includes multiple therapy sessions per day, educational groups, and holistic wellness activities.
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP): This program offers a step-down level of care for those who are ready for more flexibility. IOP typically involves several sessions a week, allowing clients to apply the skills they learn in real-world settings while still receiving consistent support.

Both programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Treatment plans are built collaboratively, taking into account each person’s specific behavioral addiction, co-occurring conditions, and personal recovery goals.

Incorporating Peer Support

Recovery is often most successful when people feel understood and supported by others who have faced similar struggles. That’s why peer support is a core part of our approach.

Group therapy sessions allow clients to share their experiences, challenges, and successes in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. This sense of community helps reduce feelings of isolation and builds accountability.

We also encourage participation in external peer support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, SMART Recovery, or other specialized programs, depending on the addiction. The shared wisdom of a recovery community can be a powerful motivator for long-term success.

Mindfulness and Self-Awareness

Mindfulness is more than just a buzzword — it’s a practical skill that helps clients manage urges, reduce stress, and stay present. For many people with behavioral addictions, compulsive behaviors are often used to escape uncomfortable emotions or situations. Mindfulness teaches individuals to pause, acknowledge their feelings, and respond intentionally rather than react impulsively.

At West Coast Recovery Centers, mindfulness practices may include:

• Guided meditation sessions
• Breathwork techniques for stress reduction
• Mindful movement, such as trauma-informed yoga 
• Journaling for self-reflection

These techniques help clients cultivate awareness of their thoughts and behaviors, giving them the ability to choose healthier coping mechanisms in moments of temptation.

Relapse Prevention: Building Skills for the Future

Relapse prevention is a critical component of our behavioral addiction treatment. We work closely with clients to identify personal triggers, such as certain environments, emotions, or social situations. Together, we create a comprehensive plan to manage these triggers without returning to harmful behaviors.

Relapse prevention strategies may include:

• Coping skill development: Practicing healthier ways to manage stress, boredom, or emotional pain.
• Lifestyle restructuring: Building daily routines that support overall well-being.
• Accountability measures: Setting up regular check-ins with peers, sponsors, or therapists.

Our goal is to empower clients to leave treatment with a clear, actionable plan for maintaining their recovery in the long term.

What sets West Coast Recovery Centers apart is our commitment to treating the whole person – not just the addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with a behavioral addiction, you are not alone. At West Coast Recovery Centers, we provide compassionate, comprehensive care designed to address every aspect of recovery. Whether you’re facing challenges with gambling, gaming, shopping, or another compulsive behavior, our team will meet you where you are and guide you toward lasting change. Call us today at (760) 492-6509 to learn more about our programs and start your journey to a balanced, fulfilling life —because true healing is about more than stopping the behavior; it’s about reclaiming your whole self.