Art Therapy for Addiction

Art therapy can be a valuable part of the recovery process for those struggling with substance abuse or mental illness. When used as a complementary technique alongside traditional counseling methods, the creative process in an art therapy session can increase your self-esteem while you release stress and tension. There is a distinct difference between using art in therapy and art therapy itself. Utilizing art in therapy generally refers to using art as a means to an end. On the other hand, art therapy centers around the creative process as a therapeutic tool.

Art therapy uses expressive arts to create an outlet for patients to express their emotions, improve their self-esteem, manage their addictions, reduce stress, and improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. Through a variety of art forms such as ceramics, painting, sketching, and more, clients can convey ideas, emotions, feel empowered and explore problems in a non-verbal way of communication. This is highly beneficial for topics clients feel hesitant about addressing in traditional talk therapy sessions such as individual or group therapy.

When participating in art therapy sessions, your art therapist will guide you on creating art with a specific message, or you will have free rein to paint, draw, and create a visual guide for your emotions. Art therapy is often integrated into support groups, talk therapies such as group therapy or individual therapy, and other recovery services to encourage healing from drug abuse and alcohol abuse. 

The art therapists at our facility aren’t aiming to shape clients into award-winning artists or prepare them for a career in visual arts. You don’t need any artistic talent to flourish in art therapy – the only prerequisite you need is an open mind and willingness to participate in the program.