There are no two clients in detox who have the same history, health or passions. That means that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery, programs are designed to be comprehensive and flexible. Art therapy is just one of many detox therapies that offer benefits to clients ready for a new lease on life.
What is Art Therapy?
Art comes in many forms, and so does art therapy. Combining therapy and art isn’t new, and there are many ways that this form of treatment can help people overcome addiction. In detox, art can be a distraction for those who struggle with withdrawal symptoms. It can also be a way to open up and be vulnerable in a less intimidating setting.
There is no right way to create art. For some clients, sketching with a pencil is the perfect way to be creative. For others, making jewelry or painting is the best form of therapy. Virtually any means of creating art from sculpting to dance can be beneficial to people ready to improve their health and their lives during detox.
Creating Art as a Backdrop for Talk Therapy
One of the best ways to combine therapy and art is to use the technique as the backdrop for talk therapy. Imagine that you’re sitting in a room with a therapist. Even if you’re ready to make a change and you’re excited about sobriety, opening up can be tough. In a one-on-one environment, being honest can make you feel very vulnerable.
Now imagine that instead of facing a therapist, you’re looking down at a coloring book. You might be using crayons or colored pencils to add your personal touch to the page–that’s art therapy. While your hands are occupied with this creative pursuit, you may be able to speak more freely and without the worry of judgment. This concept is widely used for children in therapy sessions, but it can be just as useful in a detox environment for adults.
Using Art to Express Emotions
Art can also be a way for clients to express how they are feeling in a nonverbal fashion. During detox, there are so many emotions that people go through. In the course of a few days, people may feel exhausted, excited, depressed and anxious. It is critical to develop ways to let those feelings out safely.
Talk therapy or addiction counseling can be tools that help clients express themselves. As most people realize, however, it isn’t always easy to find the right words to express how you feel. That just becomes more challenging when you’re also struggling with withdrawal symptoms at the same time. Art can be a way to reveal hidden emotions and prevent them from becoming an obstacle in the process of recovery.
Art as a Coping Mechanism
Even if clients receive the best possible care and have a complete commitment to their sobriety, cravings can appear. Triggers and stressful situations may cause people to consider abusing drugs or alcohol again. Experiencing this pullback toward addiction is normal, but it is important not to give in. Having coping mechanisms in place can help people deal with these struggles and come out stronger on the other side. Art therapy can be one of those coping mechanisms.
Many different coping mechanisms can be useful for clients. Just one is art therapy. When things become overwhelming, art can be a way to detach and calm down. It can be a distraction as well as a soothing activity.
Holistic and Evidence-Based Treatment at Serenity House Detox & Recovery
Art therapy can be part of the treatment plan for those fighting back against addiction. It is never too early to start making the most of art, which is why this form of therapy can be found in detox programs. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery, clients can participate in a wide range of therapies and treatments designed to work toward recovery. Just a few examples include:
Whether you want to recover in Jupiter or Fort Lauderdale, Serenity House Detox & Recovery has a Florida location that’s right for your recovery. Art therapy is just part of a comprehensive detox plan that can pave the way to lifelong sobriety. When you’re ready to take back your life, call us at 866-294-5306.