Creative Art Expressions
For many people who struggle with addiction and substance abuse, the ability to express inner thoughts and feelings can be difficult. Art therapy can be extremely useful to give them a judgment-free method by which to express themselves with no constraints. Alternative methods of self-expression, such as art therapy, are a wonderful outlet for those who might not feel comfortable with talk therapy. Art therapy does wonders for revealing experiences or traumas that you might associate with guilt or shame. Clients use mediums such as paint, ink, and clay instead of words as a means of expressing themselves.
Expressing the Self
with Art
Therapeutic art expressions incorporates elements found in the psychology of both Freud and Jung, relying on the idea that we can find meaning in symbols and images portrayed in artwork. At Serenity Light Recovery, we will observe your artwork and help you discover your innermost thoughts and feelings based on what your art conveys, which can provide an important gateway to understanding your personal struggles and past traumas associated with addiction. It can also go hand-in-hand with recognizing and identifying personal triggers that crop up in your everyday life.
Several benefits of art therapy, according to the American Art Therapy Association, include:
- Allowing individuals to push past denial about their particular issues
- Helping clients communicate better with their therapists and others around them
- Giving clients an opportunity to work through guilt related to their addiction and mental health struggles
- Providing motivation for them to complete their treatment program
- Resolving emotional conflicts
- Building self-esteem
- Improving self-awareness
- Relieving anxiety
- Building social skills
- Developing healthy interests
We know that treatment can be difficult and requires energy, time, and commitment. Art therapy is a way for our clients to utilize non-verbal communication while releasing fear, tension, anxiety, shame, and guilt. The best part — your talent has no bearing on your success!
