For the study with my MAP client who has AUD and GAD, I could measure the amount of anxiety (dependent variable) after implementing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (independent variable) during sessions. Baseline anxiety levels would be assessed upon entry into the program using the GAD-7 questionnaire. The GAD-7 scale has been shown to highly correlate with specific anxiety and excessive alcohol use. This tool would then be administered again at six weeks and at week 12 to track changes over time. Operational definition: CBT is a form of therapy that focuses on teaching specific skills to improve anxiety symptoms. It includes exposure therapy, where the individual gradually encounters the object or situation that triggers their anxiety, thereby building confidence in managing both the problem and their anxiety symptoms (Mayo Clinic, 2025). Refine and expand their operational definitions