How Experiential Therapies Help Those Recovering from Addiction

Successful recovery requires a multifaceted approach that tackles the different physical, behavioral, and cognitive components of addiction. An increasingly popular method that works in conjunction with traditional talking treatments is experiential therapy. It uses a “healing through doing” approach, using different activities as a vehicle for the individual with an addiction to release their negative emotions, process traumas, and approach scenarios with a different mindset. In using other forms of expression to evoke past experiences, people get the space they need to react to things differently, changing their beliefs about themselves and the world around them.

When treating those struggling with addiction, the primary objective of experiential therapies is to teach them how to manage everyday stress and triggers without relapsing. This can involve subject matter or topics that elicit feelings or remind them of their addiction, past actions, or present cravings. By drawing the focus to the activity at hand, many therapists find their clients less guarded than in traditional talking therapy, and more willing to discuss the feelings that led them to irresponsible acts, or to hurt the ones they love.

Examples of popular experiential therapies: 

• Art therapy - The strength of art therapy lies in its flexibility and diversity. An individual with an addiction have many options - between drawing, sculpting, painting, sewing, collaging, carving, etc., they are likely to find a particular medium that “speaks” to them more loudly than others. This gives massive scope for non-traditional creative expression. Starting with the belief that everyone can create, the individual with addiction  can provide a physical form to their individual experiences, helping others understand them and understand themselves. Self-acceptance, creative problem-solving, and increased mindfulness are among the main benefits of this type of therapy. 

• Drama therapy - here people struggling with addiction have the opportunity to polish their acting skills in the different “characters” they adopt during role-playing and various theatrical-based activities, like improvisation, story-telling, and group scenes. They may feel more comfortable expressing themselves through the safety of imagination and find healing in re-enacting challenging scenarios. It can give them practical experience in handling stressful life situations gracefully and instill confidence in their ability to speak in public or in front of peers or colleagues.

• ROPES Course™ - here at The Walker Center, we have a special ropes course integrated into our recovery programs. The course challenges people of all abilities and backgrounds through a sequence of static and dynamic physical activities that require a mix of individual and group effort to complete. Participants' emotional and physical safety is a top priority at all times, and the objectives of the activities  are to provide practical experience of healthy communication and trust-building within a team, as well as promote autonomous decision making and boost the self-confidence of the individuals taking part.  

An overall benefit seen through all experiential therapies is increased feelings of wellbeing, positive coping skills, and longer-lasting sobriety. Healthy habits of emotional regulation, growing self-esteem, and an empowered perspective on their past await those who dive head-first into these types of therapy. 

If you feel that you have lost control over your drinking habits, are using substances frequently, or have a loved one who you believe needs professional help, please don’t hesitate to contact our experts. We will provide a confidential consultation where you can talk freely, verify your insurance, or help you find funding options.

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