Executive Functioning
We understand that for many people in early recovery, developing strong executive functioning skills is a critical component for success in both recovery and the transition into adulthood. ADHD and other cognitive challenges paired with substance use often impair executive functioning, making it difficult for young people to move forward and take responsibility in their personal, academic, and professional lives. Our Executive Functioning program is designed to specifically address these challenges, helping young adults build the skills they need to succeed both in recovery and beyond.
What Is Executive Functioning?
Executive functioning refers to a set of cognitive skills that enable individuals to plan, make decisions, control impulses, solve problems, and regulate emotions. These skills are essential for managing daily responsibilities, achieving goals, and adapting to life’s challenges. For young adults, executive functioning difficulties often manifest as:
- Poor time management
- Trouble setting and achieving goals
- Difficulty controlling impulses or emotions
- Challenges with problem-solving and decision-making
In many cases, these difficulties are compounded by the effects of substance abuse or co-occurring mental health issues, making it harder for young adults to progress into adulthood and lead independent, sober lives. Strengthening these cognitive skills is a vital step toward overcoming the barriers and building a fulfilling, responsible life.
Executive Functioning in Recovery
For young adults in recovery, developing strong executive functioning skills is essential to overcoming the barriers to sustained sobriety and independent living. Addiction often impairs cognitive functions, especially decision-making, emotion regulation, and impulse control. These impairments can make it difficult for individuals to maintain their recovery and navigate life outside of treatment. Some common challenges include:
Time Management: Difficulty organizing daily activities and responsibilities. We teach clients how to plan their day, prioritize tasks, and stay on track with their recovery goals.
Impulse Control: Struggling with managing emotions and urges, particularly when under stress or facing cravings. Our program helps clients recognize emotional triggers and manage impulses, reducing the risk of relapse.
Problem-Solving: Difficulty thinking through challenges and making sound decisions. We help clients build strong decision-making skills, empowering them to handle difficult situations effectively.
Goal-Setting: Lacking the ability to set and follow through on goals. We support clients in setting realistic, achievable goals for both their short- and long-term recovery.
Emotional-Regulation: Struggling to manage stress and emotions constructively. Our program provides clients with healthy coping strategies to manage their emotions and stress, improving their ability to handle life’s ups and downs.
Executive Functioning at Ascend Recovery
Ascend Recovery’s program incorporates a dedicated focus on improving executive functioning throughout all stages of treatment, particularly for young adults who may struggle with issues like ADHD, ODD, and the cognitive effects of substance use. Our approach combines individualized care, group therapy, and experiential therapies to help young adults develop these critical skills. Our program includes:
- Relational-Based Therapy: Clients work one-on-one with their primary therapist to address specific challenges related to executive functioning, such as time management, decision-making, and emotional regulation. We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients develop better self-awareness and problem-solving skills.
- Executive Functioning Skills Building: In our extended care phase, we focus on building practical skills that young adults can apply to their daily lives. Clients learn how to organize their time, set goals, and make informed decisions, which are key for independent living and maintaining sobriety.
- Experiential Therapy: Activities like equine therapy, psychodrama, and group challenges give clients the opportunity to practice executive functioning skills in real-world settings. These activities are designed to help clients apply what they’ve learned in therapy to real-life situations, allowing them to rehearse new behaviors and test their skills in managing emotions and stress.
- Wellness Integration: Daily exercise and a nutrition program are incorporated to promote brain health and improve cognitive function. Healthy living habits support the development of executive functioning skills by enhancing mood, memory, and emotional regulation.
Through our program, young adults rebuild their cognitive skills while also developing the tools they need to thrive in their new lives in recovery.
Contact Us Today!
We are committed to helping our clients strengthen the executive functioning skills they need for success in recovery and beyond. We offer the support necessary for you or your loved one to build a strong foundation for long-term success. Contact us today to learn more about how our program can help you build the skills necessary for a fulfilling, independent life.
