Art therapy programs are used to treat psychological disorders and help people improve their mental health. You don’t need to be an artist to enjoy the benefits of art therapy in recovery, of course. The healing benefits of art therapy are accessible to everyone.
The arts are forms of communication that can help people express their emotions in non-verbal ways. Art therapy is an outlet for such communication provided by trained mental health professionals. If you’d like to know more about the healing benefits of art therapy, call Promises at 844.875.5609 today.
What Is Art Therapy?
Many people think of painting or drawing when they wonder how art therapy can help with substance use disorder and other mental health concerns. While visual art is an important part of an art therapy program, art therapy is a type of psychotherapy that encompasses almost every form of artistic expression and appreciation.
Techniques used in art therapy include the following:
- Painting
- Drawing
- Dancing
- Acting
- Sculpting
- Pottery
- Poetry
- Music
Art therapy sessions may include writing or playing music, but they may also focus on music appreciation. Watching a live performance or screening a movie and then discussing the event in a therapeutic environment can also be part of art therapy. Extending one’s therapeutic options beyond “making” extends the healing benefits of art and art therapy to more people.
The Benefits of Art Therapy in Recovery
Many people enter the recovery process after spending years keeping their emotions down with drugs and alcohol. Learning how to express your feelings in a positive way takes time. Art therapy offers an opportunity for anyone to connect with their emotions, even those who may otherwise not feel confident about their communication skills.
Other key benefits of art therapy in recovery include the following:
It Reduces Stress
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of art therapy in recovery is that it can help clients reduce stress. Research has shown that as little as one hour of creative activity can lower one’s feelings of worry regardless of their artistic experience.
It’s Effective
Art therapy is scientifically recognized and evidence-based. Studies on how art therapy can help adults recovering from trauma have found it to significantly reduce feelings of depression and other common symptoms of trauma. Additionally, art therapists are specially trained mental health professionals who may also be experienced in different forms of therapy, such as couples counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy.
It’s Accessible
Anyone interested can participate in art therapy. Adults who believe they’re not creative may be skeptical of art therapy, but with so many options to explore, there is a place for everyone. The healing benefits of art as an entire medium are open to everyone regardless of experience, natural talent, or physical ability.
It’s a Welcome Complement to Traditional Therapy
In a traditional sense, there’s plenty of talking that needs to take place in recovery. Opening up and sharing is a necessary part of the healing process. But between group therapy, individual therapy, and 12-step programs, some clients feel overwhelmed by all the verbal communication. Participating in art therapy allows clients to engage in a therapeutic process that doesn’t require them to sit still and tell their personal stories or talk about their challenges.
Start Your Healing With the Benefits of Art Therapy in Recovery at Promises
At Promises, we understand that recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. Offering holistic and experiential programs like art therapy adds a dimension to recovery that goes beyond basic treatment. The tools you acquire in art therapy are those that will help you maintain your health (both mentally and physically) for the rest of your life.
We’re proud that our comprehensive substance use disorder and mental health programs offer a variety of life-affirming treatment options. For more about how art therapy can help in your healing journey, call Promises at 844.875.5609 or use our online contact form.