Whether you are struggling with substance abuse, a mental disorder or both, our team of experts can help you get your life back on track. For over 50 years, the Gateway Foundation has been serving patients at all stages of recovery by offering evidence-based and individualized treatment programs. Negative, judgmental thoughts can cloud the mind, creating a harsh environment in an individual’s head art therapy ideas for adults in recovery and hindering recovery. Creating a collage of “words to live by” helps these individuals identify who they are and understand the core values they want to live by. A “words to live by” collage can be created individually or in a group setting. Art therapy is known to be an effective technique in improving mental and emotional well-being, especially for those in addiction recovery treatment.

Working with Art Therapists

Art can not only help you deal with the bad stuff, but also help you appreciate and focus on the good. Check out these activities all about reflecting on your personal happiness. Once they are finished, explore what they have created. Ask them how their meaning has shifted and how their new frame will serve them. She found respite in her heroin use, and fully escaped the only way she knew how. This method of escape pulled in much-needed supports for her and her family.

Why is there such an interest in stem cells?

The opinions and views expressed in this guest blog do not necessarily reflect those of or its sponsor, Laurel House, Inc. The author and have no affiliations with any products or services mentioned in this article or linked to herein. Add elements that inspire creativity – perhaps soft background music, mood lighting, or inspiring artwork. Plants, scented candles, or even a comfortable chair can also elevate the ambiance. Select a space where you feel at ease – it could be a quiet corner in your home, an outdoor setting, or even a dedicated art room if you have the luxury. The goal is to find a place free from distractions and interruptions.

Guided Journals to Use in Therapy

Incorporating these complementary therapies into your treatment programs can foster healing and personal growth. Try our Self-Love Journal worksheet, which provides 10 journal prompts for those clients needing to cultivate self-compassion. The courses listed below and other programs at EGS are the only expressive arts therapies training options currently available in Europe.

Guided Imagery Drawing for Relaxation

For instance, painting over a photograph can be symbolic of altering or coming to terms with past memories. It’s not just about creating aesthetically pleasing works but rather diving deep into the cathartic process of creation itself. Learn more about our effective research based methods as well as all alternative treatments that speak to the individual. As part of our commitment to your well-being, the Sabino Recovery team will assist you with a detailed continuing care plan. We also offer a free, lifelong alumni program to ensure ongoing support and success. Join 550,000+ helping professionals who get free, science-based tools sent directly to their inbox.

• For me, Sabino Recovery delivered what was professed.
• In many cases, it might be used in conjunction with other psychotherapy techniques such as group therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
• A profound realization many of us have when utilizing art as therapy is that you can express yourself in many different ways.
• I give the clients various drawing tools (these sharpies work really well on the boxes), cardstock in various colors, and I also like to offer these brightly colored index cards.

The Unique Value of Art Therapy in addiction recovery

• Doodling with felt markers or the ubiquitous Sharpie® pens is not only fun, but also has been shown to actually improve memory in some cases.
• When you assess that a client’s view of their situation is self-defeating, it can be really helpful to walk them toward a reframe.
• These ongoing health problems are sometimes called post-COVID-19 syndrome, post-COVID conditions, long COVID-19, long-haul COVID-19, and post acute sequelae of SARS COV-2 infection (PASC).
• If you are struggling with addiction, it may seem like there is no end to it.
• It can be enjoyable and can become a regular part of life in recovery.

• Remember childhood and draw a lacking person, thanks to whom your life could change for the better.
• This symbolism can help in distilling and understanding complex emotions.
• Hayley has worked in the mental health field for 20+ years, helping both clients and clinicians.
• Any skill level of artistry easily allows the participant to accomplish Zentangle—to achieve something in a thoughtful and healing format.