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CT-R SERVICES

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

Recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R) forms the heart of our care model.

psychologist conducts an appointment with a woman patient in a mental health facility.

By boosting confidence and resilience, recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R) allows us to offer effective care for everyone- even those who have tried everything else.

What is CT-R?

At the heart of AMFM’s recovery model is Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R), which is built on the gold standard in mental health treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, unlike the more traditional paths of CBT and its cousin for psychosis (CBTp), CT-R turns the spotlight on a different emphasis: empowerment and resilience. CT-R is designed for those who feel like they’ve tried it all but still haven’t found their way forward. CT-R isn’t focused on tackling symptoms– it’s more interested in unlocking each person’s potential, helping them connect with their aspirations, and guiding them toward a life brimming with purpose and joy.

The Beck Institute and CT-R

The leap from CBT to CT-R comes courtesy of the Beck Institute, the originator of Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Drawing on the visionary work of Dr. Aaron T. Beck, the institute set out to create a therapy that builds on what works and pushes it further in order to empower and uplift individuals facing long-standing mental health challenges. With CT-R, they’ve provided new hope for many and reimagined what effective mental health treatment looks like.

The Core Principles of CT-R

Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R) brings a fresh perspective to helping people who haven’t found what they need in standard therapy. Key principles include:

The Adaptive Mode

Central to CT-R is the idea of the “adaptive mode,” which is about reaching an individual’s peak state where positive thoughts, emotions, and actions are easily accessed. Practically, this means getting involved in activities or conversations that generate happiness, enthusiasm, or curiosity, letting go of any troublesome symptoms for a clearer and more optimistic mindset.

The “adaptive mode” serves as more than an escape from challenges; it’s a deliberate approach to fostering resilience and chasing significant personal objectives. CT-R therapists work to identify exactly what shifts a person into this hopeful state. Armed with this insight, they design personalized strategies that truly speak to the individual’s core values and dreams, inspiring ongoing progress in pursuit of those values and goals.

Developing Strategies for Overcoming Obstacles

Those who are struggling often face multiple obstacles, like uncomfortable symptoms, trouble getting and staying motivated, and communication barriers. Through CT-R, these obstacles are addressed directly, and participants are equipped to move beyond them.

The strength of the CBT model proves that treating pessimism and antisocial behavior can improve motivation, community participation, and overall well-being. With CT-R, even individuals who have struggled for a long time can experience dramatic changes in their sense of self and their potential.

Engagement and Personal Ambitions

Participation is the cornerstone of CT-R. Engagement in the process sets the stage for trust between therapist and client. One of the steps is to visualize and articulate hopes, turning faraway dreams into actionable plans. Working together, clinicians and clients anchor therapy in the individual’s personal values and desires, and actively involve the client in the treatment process.

CT-R in Action

Who Benefits from
CT-R?

CT-R can be a lifeline for those who’ve hit roadblocks with traditional mental health approaches. It’s especially impactful for individuals grappling with severe challenges such as motivation issues, hallucinations, or the aftermath of trauma. CT-R offers hope to those who may be labeled by other providers as “hard to treat”, providing a path to rekindle motivation, pursue personal goals, and enhance connection with their community.

psychologist and young man in a therapy appointment.

Flexible Implementation

CT-R can be used across many treatment settings, from individual sessions in outpatient clinics to group therapy in inpatient care. It’s adaptable enough that it can meet individuals wherever they are, and its practitioners have a toolkit for change that goes beyond traditional treatment boundaries.

ARE YOU OR A LOVED ONE STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH?

AMFM is here to help you or your loved one take the next steps towards an improved mental well-being.

The CT-R Treatment Process

According to CT-R, people have different “modes”- they can thrive (in the adaptive mode) or struggle (in the disconnected mode). Recognizing that individuals can swiftly shift – and figuring out how to trigger the shift– between these modes is the focus of treatment.

Identifying the Adaptive Mode:

In CT-R, finding your adaptive mode is key to unlocking your healing potential. Therapists will explore moments you’re at your best—when you feel brighter, communicate more effectively, and are more energetic. Questions like, “When do you feel most like yourself?” help figure out what exactly activates this mode. When you’re in the adaptive mode, you’re present with your positive beliefs about yourself, others, and the future.

On the other hand, there’s the “disconnected mode”, where you may view yourself negatively, doubt your capabilities, or lack a sense of purpose. You might respond to the challenges of the “disconnected mode” by withdrawing, isolating, or behaving badly.

Transitioning from Disconnected to Adaptive Mode:

Early in treatment, it’s normal if you find yourself more frequently in the disconnected mode. CT-R’s strategies are developed to shift the balance so that your best self can take the lead. Through guided discovery—asking questions and making space for deep personal reflection—therapists will help connect your actions to your deeper values.

Along the way, you’ll spend a lot of time in activities that trigger your adaptive mode, whatever those might be. Trust between you and your therapist is another tool for further building the adaptive mode, where you can articulate and pursue your long-term dreams, filling your daily life with hope and purpose.

Evidence in Support of CT-R

Studies show that Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R) really works, especially for people who haven’t had much luck with other treatments. Research found that CT-R helps people do better in their daily lives, feel less stuck, and experience fewer symptoms compared to usual care methods. CT-R can really change lives, giving people a strong, science-backed path to feeling better and living the life they want.

How CT-R Informs Our Practice at AMFM Health

At AMFM Health, we’ve woven Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R) deeply into the fabric of our treatment approach, recognizing its transformative power for individuals facing mental health challenges. CT-R isn’t just a method we use; it’s a philosophy that shapes how we see recovery and support our clients. 

With CT-R, we’re able to zero in on each person’s strengths, aspirations, and the positive aspects of their lives.  We believe in using CT-R to contribute towards personalized, effective care plans that resonate with every person’s journey towards wellness. And we’re very proud of the outcomes: increased motivation among clients, more engagement in their communities, and significant strides towards their personal recovery goals.

Training and Development in CT-R

Education and training are the keys to integrating CT-R into AMFM Health. We make sure every member of our staff—from therapists to support personnel—understands and can apply CT-R principles in their work. This training is based on a custom curriculum from the Beck Institute, which gives our staff the skills and knowledge to implement CT-R. Continual learning and improvement reflect our commitment to providing the highest quality care, and it helps us empower every client we work with to reach their recovery and wellness goals.

Psychologist discussing mental health disorder with male patient.

If you or a loved one are navigating mental health challenges and seeking a supportive, empowering approach to recovery, we're here to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation with our team. Let's explore together how CT-R, integrated into our personalized care, can make a difference in your journey.