At Royal Life Centers, we are always exploring innovative and effective ways to support the journey of recovery. Among our comprehensive treatment modalities, expressive arts therapy stands out as a powerful tool in healing from drug and alcohol addiction. This unique form of therapy goes beyond traditional talk therapies by engaging the creative side of the brain, offering a transformative experience that taps into the deepest parts of one’s emotions and experiences.
Our dedicated team at Royal Life Centers believes in nurturing every aspect of recovery, recognizing that the path to sobriety is not only about physical detoxification but also about healing the mind and spirit. During detox and inpatient treatment, guests are introduced to the benefits of expressive arts therapy for addiction recovery.
What is Expressive Arts Therapy?
Expressive arts therapy is a form of therapy that utilizes various creative modalities, such as art, music, dance/movement, writing, and drama to help individuals explore their emotions and express themselves in a safe and non-judgmental space. This type of therapy recognizes the power of artistic expression and its ability to tap into our innermost thoughts and feelings.
The basis of expressive arts therapy lies in the belief that everyone has an innate ability to create and communicate through different forms of art. It does not require any prior artistic skill or training, making it accessible to anyone willing to try. The focus is not on the finished product but rather on the process of creating and what it reveals about one’s inner self.
Types of Expressive Arts Therapy
Types of expressive therapy include:
- Art therapy
- Music therapy
- Dance/movement therapy
- Journal therapy
Through painting, drawing, music, writing, and other artistic expressions, individuals find a voice for their innermost feelings, often too complex or painful to articulate through words alone. In doing so, expressive arts therapy can unlock new pathways to understanding oneself and overcoming addiction compassionately and holistically.
Art Therapy
Painting, sculpting and other forms of art boost self-expression and can often be very relaxing. Additionally, research shows that art can be important in easing the symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and ADHD, which often co-occur with substance use disorder.
Music Therapy
Music therapy offers a wide variety of benefits, for those in early recovery. According to The American Music Therapy Association, some of the benefits are stress relief, easing pain, self-expression, improved memory, and physical improvement. Music and emotion often go hand-in-hand, so it makes sense that musical therapy proves to be incredibly healing for so many. We also offer music groups on a wide array of topics.
Dance/Movement Therapy
Dance/Movement therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses movement and dance to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being. It is based on the belief that the mind and body are interconnected and that through movement, one can explore and address underlying issues or emotions.
Journal Therapy
Journaling allows individuals to put their thoughts on to paper. This helps them to better understand and process emotions or experiences they may be having. In particular journaling is a great way to put frustrations into perspective. What originally seemed like a major problem, can sometimes be nothing more than a minor annoyance. Journaling can be a very useful tool in early recovery for reducing stress.
Equine Therapy
Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) is an activity therapy that has become increasingly popular in the field of substance abuse treatment. It is a form of group treatment, where guests can pet, groom, feed, halter and lead horses. It has been found that working with horses can improve brain function, reduce stress, as well as help manage symptoms of PTSD, depression and anxiety. Horses are sensitive animals, which make them especially in-tune to human cues. Equine therapy is considered a form of biofeedback therapy that focuses on better controlling involuntary bodily responses. It helps guests better moderate thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Not to mention, simply interacting with horses can boost dopamine and endorphin levels.
Benefits of Expressive Arts Therapy
Incorporating expressive arts therapy into addiction treatment can be incredibly beneficial for individuals struggling with substance abuse. It allows them to express themselves in a non-verbal way, which can be especially helpful for those who may have difficulty verbalizing their feelings or experiences. Through art, individuals can tap into their inner thoughts and emotions that they may not even realize were there. This self-discovery process can lead to increased self-awareness and insight, helping clients better understand the root causes of their addiction.
What Can Expressive Arts Therapy Help Treat?
Art has been used as a form of therapy since ancient times, but expressive arts therapy as a distinct approach was developed in the 1960s by American psychologist Natalie Rogers. Today, this person-centered therapy is recognized as an effective method of treatment for a wide range of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.
By engaging in expressive arts therapy, individuals can gain insight into their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. In doing so, these therapy techniques can help people process difficult experiences and traumas, providing a safe outlet for expression and healing.
Expressive Therapies at Royal Life Detox
At Royal Life Detox, we believe in the power of art therapy as an integral part of our holistic approach to healing. Our experienced therapists incorporate various forms of creative expression into individualized treatment plans to help each client find their unique path to recovery. Through art therapy, our clients are empowered to explore their emotions, improve self-awareness, and build meaningful connections with others on their journey toward wellness.
Expressive Arts Therapy in Arizona Detox
At Royal Life Detox, our expressive arts therapy groups encourage guests to take an active role in their healing process. By engaging in various forms of art such as painting, drawing, music, or writing, you can express yourself in a non-verbal way that may feel less daunting than traditional talk therapy. This can be especially beneficial in moments where it’s hard to communicate how you feel in treatment and recovery.
If you have any questions about our expressive therapy or detox services, please feel free to contact us 24/7 to answer any of your questions.
