Art therapy can also be used to help individuals to explore their interests and passions, as well as to develop new skills and abilities. Through art therapy, individuals can find an outlet to express themselves and explore their creativity. Conventional treatment approaches have often been criticized for failing to address women’s unique needs, and research suggests that CAM could be a useful https://ecosoberhouse.com/ way to account for such needs (Brady & Ashley, 2005; Feen-Calligan et al., 2008). Indeed, past research has suggested the need for treatment models that are tailored to adolescents’ unique needs (Vourakis, 2005). Music therapy is also asserted to be particularly helpful for adolescents and women (American Music Therapy Association, 2014; Cevasco et al., 2005; Feen-Calligan et al., 2008).

Many individuals might even discover a fulfilling hobby they can devote their time to and return to whenever they need assistance expressing and understanding themselves. For addicts in recovery, it can also be an excellent coping technique that results in fewer relapses and a better quality of life. As previously mentioned, art therapy can be used in a variety of ways for people dealing with all sorts of issues. However, where this therapy form seems to be helping the most is addiction recovery. Professional art therapy sessions consist of various techniques and exercises that are utilized to best help recovering addicts. Through art therapy, those in recovery can explore, understand and resolve issues they may feel uncomfortable talking about in traditional talk sessions.

Provides a Healthy Outlet for Self-Expression

Through art therapy, those in addiction recovery from substance abuse can explore, understand, and address issues they may feel uncomfortable talking about during traditional talk sessions. They can safely feel and process the emotions surrounding their addiction experience. The practice of using art as a form of therapy was formalized in the 1940s when doctors noticed that patients experiencing a variety of mental challenges were expressing themselves through drawings and various other forms of art. When both doctors and patients began noting the potential healing properties of art as a therapy, the practice was extended to people experiencing a substance use disorder.

This part of the session provides you with an opportunity to express anything that is on your mind that you may wish to discuss. This could take the form of a simple check-in on the progress you feel you are making, or you could address a specific concern you have had since your last session. Your art art therapy for addiction ideas therapist should help you set your expectations for the session at this time. In organized art therapy sessions at Alternative to Meds Center, you are encouraged to express what you look, feel, or sound like on the inside. Art therapy can help individuals to explore their identity and find purpose.

Benefits of Art Therapy for Addiction Treatment

While substance abuse disorders themselves are a physical dependence on drugs or alcohol, these problems often stem from underlying mental health problems and can bleed into several areas of a person’s life. For a person to find lasting recovery from addiction, their treatment plan should consider all these factors. Art therapy is one effective tool used in some treatment programs that can promote comprehensive healing for those in recovery from a drug or alcohol addiction. Banyan’s Chicago addiction treatment center is sharing more about the benefits of art therapy for addiction and some art therapy activities that can make recovery more positive. An art therapy session is much more nuanced than what many people may have experienced in an arts and crafts class.

Furthermore, music therapy also provides a way to motivate patients to receive treatment. In these treatments, patients go beyond simply listening to music to engage emotions, motivations, and barriers to recovery through lyrics and melody (American Music Therapy Association, 2014). Art therapists use psychotherapy skills in their sessions, allowing patients to learn about themselves and understand areas of growth. Feelings of denial, depression, compulsion, and obsession are lessened, allowing someone to be more present and feel better without the belief that substances are the only means to peace or joy.