Art Therapy for Addiction Recovery at Summit Malibu offers a creative outlet for our residents to explore and process issues they are not comfortable verbalizing.
Without the use of words, art therapy becomes a communication method that brings our innermost feelings to life.
Research studies have shown that art therapy can have a positive impact on engaging brain networks and strengthening the reward system to improve attention, motivation, emotional regulation, a sense of connection, and overall well-being.
The process of creating art requires an artist’s full attention to the present, making art therapy a practice in mindfulness and an alternative means of meditation.
Moreover, art therapy for addiction recovery allows our residents to reconnect with their most authentic selves.
When used in conjunction with traditional therapy, art therapy serves as an enjoyable way for our residents to make sense of complicated emotions.
Conditions Art Therapy Helps Treat
Art Therapy is valuable for exploring the underlying negative emotions and trauma associated with substance use addiction and mental health conditions.
It has shown to be helpful for treating the following conditions:
- Drug and alcohol addiction and substance use disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Mood disorders
- Personality disorders
- PTSD and trauma disorders
- Grief and loss
- Eating disorders
- Schizophrenia and psychosis
The Benefits of Art Therapy in Recovery
Art therapy offers many benefits for people in addiction and mental health recovery.
- Provides a nonverbal way to express emotions
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Helps process traumatic memories
- Increases awareness
- Improves self-esteem
- Enhances communication skills
- Builds confidence
- Teaches coping skills to prevent relapse
- Offers a healthy way to connect with others
How Art Therapy for Addiction Recovery Works
Instead of being concerned with artistic skill, art therapy is focused on reflection, self-expression, and exploring emotions.
It can be conveyed through drawings, paintings, sculpture, photography, and even journaling.
The creative process takes place in a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where our residents can explore their feelings.
It is a therapeutic process that helps individuals be grounded and present in the moment, much like mindfulness training.
Art Therapy is also an excellent way to boost dopamine, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters to improve mood and motivation.
In our experience, creative exploration is powerful way to heal the mind, body, and soul.
After completing the recovery treatment program at Summit Malibu, our residents can continue to integrate activities like painting and drawing into their life to better express their feelings, explore creativity, and reduce stress.
To learn more about Art Therapy for Addiction Recovery at Summit Malibu, contact us at (310) 742-1882.
