UB’s QUIT smoking cessation program, which boasts of a success rate of nearly 80 percent among those finishing treatment, returns for another run this summer and fall, giving smokers — especially the heaviest ones — what could be their best chance to stop the habit.

The QUIT group program, affiliated with the Department of Psychology, is offering a $10 discount for those enrolling in the July or August sessions. Enrollment in one of these groups costs $55, which amounts to less than $5.50 per hour.

Nearly 80 percent of those completing the program remain smoke-free one month after treatment, according to QUIT program organizers.

“People often have very different personal reasons for quitting,” says QUIT clinician Courtney Motschman. “We assist group members in turning these motives into action.”

The program is led by trained psychology PhD students who use techniques supported by research. Treatments include a combination of group therapy and nicotine replacement, which, QUIT clinicians say, gives clients the best chance of staying quit.

The program is open to anyone 18 years or older. While it is geared toward heavier smokers  — those who smoke 10 or more cigarettes a day — it also has been successful in helping lighter smokers quit.

Sessions are held at the Psychological Services Center in Park Hall on the North Campus. The seven sessions are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and one Friday. Smokers looking to end their habit can enroll in the July, August, September or October sessions. The cost for the September and October sessions is $65.

Those interested should call (716) 645-3697.