Residential treatment is a great option for individuals suffering from addiction. Unlike outpatient treatment where clients return home in between treatment sessions, residential rehab requires clients to stay at the facility. Clients generally reside at the treatment center for about one month and have access to around-the-clock care and supervision.

There are many benefits to choosing a residential treatment center in Newport Beach. The setting provided is safe and supportive, and it removes common triggers that can set people in recovery back. Clients are able to focus all of their attention on getting sober while working through some of their issues in therapy.

Even though there are many advantages to choosing a residential rehab, it is a commitment in terms of time and cost. One of the first questions that clients ask is if their family can come and visit, and if so, how often. This is a great question to ask, as family participation is a key part of the recovery process.

Are Family and Friends Allowed to Visit Me?

Each Newport Beach drug rehab program is run differently, so it’s important to check with their rules first. But in general, most residential treatment centers allow visitors during certain times. Typically, it’s only immediate family members that are allowed to visit, but some rehabs welcome friends as well, providing they are approved by the client and therapist.

While treatment facilities are generally welcoming to visitors, there are some restrictions to be aware of. First, family members will only be allowed during visiting hours. Many treatment centers offer these hours on a set day each week. They don’t typically offer them on a daily basis because this would interfere with therapy.

Second, treatment centers reserve the right to accept only those who are a good influence on your recovery. If your therapist feels that one of your family members is upsetting you, they may no longer be able to visit. Again, this depends on the treatment center, but do keep in mind that only people who support your recovery should be coming to visit.

Lastly, your loved ones will have to follow the drug rehab’s rules. Usually this includes:

• Getting the visit approved (this is typically done by your therapist)
• Staying in the designated visitor areas
• Smoking only in the designated areas (if allowed)
• No drugs or alcohol allowed

Also check with the latest coronavirus policies, as these can change at any time. If visitors are restricted due to coronavirus, the treatment center should offer an alternative so that you can see your loved ones face to face, such as telephone calls and videoconferencing.

How Soon Can My Family Visit Me?

Most treatment centers do not allow family members to visit right away. If you are going to need drug or alcohol detox, you won’t be able to have visitors during this time due to the nature of the withdrawal process. This process is physically and emotionally exhausting.

Also, some detox centers in Newport Beach also have a ‘blackout period’ where family and friends are not allowed to visit. This period usually refers to the first few days at the treatment center when you are getting acclimated to your new environment. Again, the purpose of restricting visitors is to allow you to adjust to treatment without any distraction.

Newport Beach Drug Rehab and Family Therapy

Family plays a significant role in the addiction recovery process. However, in order for family members to be a positive influence on their loved one’s recovery, they must be able to maintain a healthy role within the family unit. This is where family therapy can be very helpful.

Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual – it affects the entire family. For this reason, families need therapy, too. They need to assume healthy roles and behaviors that encourage and support recovery. Most treatment facilities offer family therapy, which is another opportunity for families and loved ones to come together and work through their challenges.

Be sure to ask your drug rehab about family therapy and how often it’s offered. Generally speaking, family therapy is provided once a week.

When Visits are a Bad Idea

There are some instances where getting visits from a friend or family member is not a good idea. Avoid visits from anyone who is currently abusing drugs or alcohol. Staying clean around you is essential.

Also, your therapist may not approve a visit depending on how you’re progressing through the program. This is not to ‘punish’ you but rather to allow you to focus solely on your recovery. Sometimes, therapists find that having visitors does more harm than good.

Getting Help for a Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Family support leads to improved outcomes for people in recovery. Therefore, most treatment centers are welcoming to immediate family members (and sometimes close friends and extended family members). However, it’s important to follow the rules and be respectful of changing policies due to coronavirus.

Newport Beach Recovery Center is an inpatient drug rehab in Orange County. We know how important family is, and we welcome them during our visitation hours. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment program and how we can help you overcome your addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Rehabilitation facilities have strict policies about what you can bring with you to treatment. To help you pack accordingly, many treatment centers provide a checklist that you can refer to. As you prepare for drug or alcohol rehab in Newport Beach, you can check off the recommended items on the checklist. This will help you feel more confident about going to rehab.

When you arrive at the treatment center, they will look inside your bags to make sure that no prohibited items are brought in. This protects you and the other residents. Typically, prohibited items are those that can distract you during recovery, as well as things that aren’t allowed on the premises.

Newport Beach Recovery Center believes in providing as much information as possible to our clients and their families so that they can prepare for treatment. Below is a thorough checklist of what you can expect to bring with you to inpatient drug treatment. For more specific information regarding our residential treatment center in Newport Beach, contact our admissions department.

What Most Rehab Centers Recommend You Pack

Each rehab facility has its own recommended list of things to bring. Some are stricter than others. However, you can expect that almost any inpatient rehab you stay at will have you bring the following:

• Contact information. Write down the names, addresses and phone numbers of those you wish to include on your care team. This may include family members, healthcare providers or a 12-step sponsor.
• Prescription medications. Bring along your current prescription medications in their original bottles. Liquid medications must be sealed and new. Also pack a list of medications and their dosages.
• Photos of loved ones. Most inpatient drug rehabs in Orange County will allow you to have pictures of your loved ones in your room or wallet. Seeing their faces each day will provide comfort and motivation.
• Personal hygiene products. Many inpatient treatment programs provide basic toiletries, but not all do. And even if the center does offer toiletries, you may feel more at home by bringing along your favorite shampoos, conditioners and deodorant.
• Important documents. When arriving at the facility, you’ll need important documents such as a form of identification, a health insurance card and a pharmacy or prescription card. Also bring along a small amount of cash for vending machines.
• Leisure items. Most rehabs let you bring leisure items such as a deck of cards, reading material or crossword puzzles. The facility may also provide reading materials that are spiritual in nature. Some centers even allow laptops or tablets.

Clothing to Bring to Drug Rehab in Newport Beach

Pack comfortable clothing that follows the center’s policies. Most treatment facilities have strict dress codes, so it’s important to be aware of any restrictions. Also be mindful of the weather. If you’re unsure, pack in layers, with t-shirts, sweaters and jackets.

Avoid overpacking, however. You only need about a week’s worth of clothes, as there’s limited closet space available in most rooms. To give you an idea of what to pack, here’s a sample list:

• Shoes. Bring comfortable shoes for everyday wear and flip flops for the shower. If the treatment center offers an outdoor therapy program, be sure to pack athletic shoes as well.
• Shirts. Pay attention to the center’s dress code. Usually, it’s best to pack tank tops/undershirts, t-shirts and sweaters.
• Pants/shorts.
• Socks and undergarments.
• Bathing suit. If the center has a swimming pool or hot tub, you’ll want to bring along one appropriate bathing suit.
• Pajamas/bathrobe/slippers. Pack the bedtime items that will keep you comfortable and help you sleep soundly.
• Sweater/jacket. For a chilly day or air conditioned building, bring along a jacket, sweater or cardigan.

Are There Items You Shouldn’t Bring to Rehab?

Just as there are things you should bring to rehab, there are some items you should NOT bring. Usually, there is a valid reason why a Newport Beach drug rehab won’t allow certain items, such as that they want to create a safe, supportive and positive environment for all residents.

Here are the types of items most treatment centers prohibit:

• Drugs and alcohol
• Weapons
• Pornography
• Food and drinks
• Items containing alcohol (i.e., mouthwash)
• Unapproved or previously opened medications
• Revealing clothing
• Large amounts of cash
• Valuables (i.e., jewelry)

A New Life Awaits. Start Treatment Today.

Newport Beach Recovery Center is a drug and alcohol rehab program in Newport Beach California. We provide detoxification services, residential treatment and outpatient treatment. This allows you to complete all of your care under one roof. Contact our admissions department to learn more about our treatment services, what to pack and how to begin your journey.

There is a stereotype that people with addiction often live on the streets, homeless from not having a job or income. However, in reality, over 10 million people with substance use disorders work full-time jobs, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association.

While it’s nice to know that you’re not alone, it can still feel isolating when you want to start rehab but you’re not sure how it will affect your job. The good news is that it’s possible to keep your job and even continue working while receiving addiction treatment in Newport Beach.

Please be aware that working while attending rehab is not the right decision for everyone. Some people need to focus entirely on their recovery and do best with taking a leave of absence. Be sure to make this decision carefully with your treatment team and loved ones.

Outpatient Rehab in Newport Beach Lets You Keep Your Job – But Know that You Do Have Rights

Most outpatient treatment centers require their clients to visit for at least three hours most days of the week. These hours are typically flexible and can be done in the mornings, afternoons or evenings, allowing you to continue working. You may have to adjust your hours, but you can certainly keep your job and earn a living.

It’s also important to know that you do have rights in the workplace whether you choose to work part-time, full-time or take a leave of absence. Talk to your HR department so that you know your rights and limitations. In general, here is what to expect:

• The Family Leave and Medical Act (FMLA) provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for serious health conditions, including addiction.
• The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability, including addiction, to federal employees and federal contractors’ employees.
• The Fair Housing Act requires housing facilities to offer equal opportunities for those with disabilities, as well as prohibits housing discrimination.
• The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects patient confidentiality, which means you have control over who sees your information.

Your employer still has the right to maintain a drug-free workplace, so you may be required to take routine drug tests. Also, you can still be fired if you arrive at work drunk or high. Your job is only protected if you are receiving treatment for an addiction or are in addiction recovery in Newport Beach.

Creating a Balanced Schedule

Work is important to many people, especially if they are the sole provider. But you must still balance your schedule so that you can make the most of treatment. Outpatient rehab is flexible and designed to let people maintain some of their normal routine, but it cannot be an afterthought.

In other words, it may be okay to work while seeking outpatient drug treatment in Orange County, but you may need to take a leave of absence in the beginning. Outpatient treatment is often a “step down” from an inpatient program, which offers 24-hour care and monitoring.

Ultimately, what’s best for you is a personal decision that you will need to discuss with your treatment team and loved ones.

Informing Employers About Treatment

Regardless of whether or not your treatment plan leaves you time to work, you should still inform your employer about your situation. Your drug rehab program in Newport Beach will expect you to put time and effort into your recovery, as well as attend as many therapy sessions as possible.

Your employer likely has a policy about this situation, so check the employee handbook or talk to your HR department. Some companies also have an employee assistance program (EAP) that can provide you with information. In some cases, you can keep these matters private. In others, you’ll have to share some information with your employer.

How Flexible is Outpatient Treatment When it Comes to Working?

Outpatient drug rehab in Newport Beach is actually very flexible when it comes to maintaining your normal routine. Most outpatient rehab facilities require three hours of therapy, three days a week. This can easily fit into most schedules.

You may have to drop down to part-time hours, change your working hours or switch shifts, but working while attending therapy is something that is done every day. In fact, some people continue in outpatient programs long-term while resuming most of their normal activities.

But as we’ve mentioned, your recovery must be a priority. You can’t just dart out of work and over to therapy. You must arrive at treatment ready to work, learn and grow. This is why we often recommend starting with detox and inpatient treatment, and then “stepping down” to an outpatient program where you can start working part-time hours.

Luxury Drug Rehab in Newport Beach: Treatment that Fits Your Schedule

Newport Beach Recovery Center offers both inpatient and outpatient treatment for those struggling with drug or alcohol issues. We have flexible hours that allow our clients to work and maintain their normal schedules. Whether you are just starting your journey or are looking to step down to a lower level of care, we can help you make this transition. Contact Newport Beach Recovery Center to speak to our admissions team.

In the United States alone, three million people have had or currently suffer from an opioid use disorder. While it’s difficult to recover from an opioid addiction, it is possible with the right drug rehab in Newport Beach. Opiate withdrawal is a necessary part of the process, however, so it’s important to be aware of this process and what to expect.

Let’s learn more about what opiate detox entails, how long the process takes and where you can find the best treatment for this type of addiction.

Why Does Opiate Withdrawal Happen in the First Place?

Many opioid users assume they can just stop when they want to. It’s not until they actually try to quit that they realize how addictive these substances are. But in order to get sober, you must go through this process and give your body a chance to recover.

Opiate withdrawal happens when you stop or decrease opioid use. The body has become dependent on this substance, so when you take it away, it goes through a period of adjustment. This adjustment phase brings about unwanted symptoms like nausea, headaches, insomnia and anxiety.

Even though opiate withdrawal is uncomfortable, the body and brain are working hard to get rid of all the chemicals. The severity of these symptoms do depend on how much of the drug you’re taking and how often. Once you complete Newport Beach drug detox, you can start the therapy portion of your treatment.

What are the Most Common Opiate Withdrawal Symptoms?

Your body has come to rely on opioids, so it must re-regulate itself. As this happens, you will experience a wide range of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can start within 12 hours from the last dose you took and can last up to two weeks.

The severity of the withdrawal symptoms vary among individuals and is based on how long you’ve been using opioids, how healthy you are and how you’re quitting. Some people quit cold turkey while others use medications to help them taper off.

Some of the most common opiate withdrawal symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Restlessness
• Insomnia
• Runny nose
• Body aches
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Shaking
• Fast heartbeat

How Long Does it Take to Fully Detox from Opioids?

To help you prepare for opiate withdrawal, here is a general timeline to follow. Keep in mind that withdrawal is different for everyone. When you choose a professional opioid detox center in Newport Beach, you will receive a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

A medical detox center will also make sure that your detox is safe and manageable. Detoxing from opiates at home is dangerous and potentially fatal, so it’s imperative that you choose a medically supervised detox facility that provides around-the-clock care.

As you experience symptoms of withdrawal, support staff will be there to help. You do not have to sit in agony. For example, you may be given medications to settle your stomach, fluids to replace the water you’re losing and drugs to control your blood pressure. Your doctor may also recommend a medication like buprenorphine to help manage cravings.

Here is what you can expect from opiate detox:

Day 1

The first day is usually when withdrawal symptoms start. Most people start experiencing these symptoms within 8-24 hours from their last dose. Common symptoms include headaches, muscle aches, anxiety and trouble sleeping. Cravings are also common.

Day 2

Most people detoxing from opioids find that day 2 is when things really kick up. The opiates are leaving the body, so it’s common to experience sweating, panic attacks, stomach pain and insomnia.

Day 3

Withdrawal symptoms often start to peak around this time, particularly if you were abusing a short-acting opioid. Your doctor will keep you comfortable, especially as you may notice additional symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and nausea.

Day 4-6

For long-acting opioids, days 4-6 are usually when symptoms peak. Again, being in a medically supervised drug detox program in Newport Beach will make these symptoms more tolerable. Additional symptoms you may experience are cramps, stomach pain, shivering and fatigue.

Day 7

Once you have made it through the first week of opioid withdrawal, your symptoms should start to fade. This doesn’t mean you will feel perfect, but you should be feeling better. Some symptoms that may linger include fatigue, depression, irritability and trouble sleeping.

What Happens When Opioid Detox Ends?

When you have completed an opiate detox program, you will need to continue your journey with inpatient drug rehab in Newport Beach. Detox is not enough to stop the problem. Without behavioral changes, you will go right back to using.

When you seek treatment from Newport Beach Recovery Center, you can go straight from detox to therapy without a lapse in care. This allows you to keep working on your recovery in a comfortable setting. We offer a variety of evidence-based and holistic therapies such as:

• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Trauma therapy
• Grief counseling
• Relapse prevention training
• Holistic therapies

Start Opiate Detox Today

Opioid addiction can be treated successfully with the right treatment and support. One phone call is all it takes to get things moving in this direction. We know it can be scary, but we are here for you.

Newport Beach Recovery Center has all the tools you need to achieve and maintain sobriety. Contact our admissions department to verify your insurance and discuss your needs for opioid addiction treatment.

If you or a loved one is thinking about starting a drug detox program in Newport Beach, you’ve probably come to find that there are many different options available. One of them is luxury drug rehab, which is an upscale facility that delivers high-quality treatment and desirable amenities in a comfortable setting.

At first glance, a luxury treatment center might seem like it has it all. But is it really right for you? And if so, how do you know that you can afford it?

In this post, we’re going to cover what a luxury drug and alcohol treatment program is, the benefits to expect and where to find this type of treatment.

What is Luxury Drug Rehab in Newport Beach?

Luxury drug treatment didn’t exist until the 1980s. Wealthy people and celebrities always had more options than the general population, but even they were left with few options for upscale treatment accommodations.

That is, until one treatment center decided to offer high-quality treatment services in a luxurious setting with top-notch amenities. The goal was to make clients feel comfortable while getting the attention they needed to treat their substance use disorder.

Today, resort-style rehabilitation centers are available to the general public and offer a number of services for people battling substance use disorders. Upscale facilities are willing to go above and beyond to ensure their clients receive the personal attention they deserve.

Are There Unique Benefits to Choosing a Luxury Treatment Center?

Luxury drug detox in Newport Beach is often thought to have fancy rooms, exciting menus and resort-style amenities, but they are much more than this. While they do try to make their facilities as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, luxury rehabs are also committed to expanded treatment options, lower staff-to-client ratios and personalized attention.

Let’s look closer at what benefits you can expect from choosing luxury addiction treatment.

• Highly experienced staff. To give clients the best treatment possible, luxury rehabs have highly trained and experienced staff. For example, Newport Beach Recovery Center has over 30+ years of combined experience treating addiction. Our addiction specialists, doctors and support staff provide the best care possible.
• Safe and serene environment. Luxury rehabs are usually located in beautiful settings, often with views of the ocean or mountains. This helps clients focus on their recoveries without distraction, as well as work on strengthening their connection to a higher power.
• Gourmet meals. Because many people in recovery are deficient in nutrients, it’s important that they nourish their bodies with vitamins and minerals. Luxury drug rehabs in Newport Beach serve gourmet food and are willing to accommodate various dietary preferences.
• Expanded treatment approaches. One of the best features about private treatment centers is that they have expanded treatment options, such as modern, traditional and holistic. Some centers even offer innovative experiences like music therapy, art therapy, adventure therapy and alternative treatments.
• Confidentiality enforced. It’s not uncommon for high profile individuals to seek treatment at a luxury facility, which is why confidentiality is strictly enforced. Even if you’re not of celebrity status, you’ll probably still appreciate the strict screening process.

Where Can I Find a Luxury Detox Center in Newport Beach?

Orange County is a beautiful part of southern California with views of both the ocean and the mountains. It’s a popular tourist destination and home to many celebrities and high-profile individuals. It also makes a great place for a luxury rehabilitation facility.

Newport Beach Recovery Center is located in Orange County. Clients can enjoy an elevated experience with scenic views while participating in our treatment program. We offer a full continuum of care that includes detox, inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment.

Our treatment facility provides six beds for inpatient residents, as well as comfortable, high-end amenities like leather reclining chairs, a fireplace, a flat-screen television and fully upgraded bathrooms. We offer evidence-based treatment, holistic therapies and gender-specific groups.

Can I Afford Luxury Rehab?

Luxury inpatient drug rehab in Orange County is generally more expensive than a non-luxury facility because of the amenities offered. But this does mean that this type of care is unaffordable for the average person. There are ways to make luxury treatment affordable, and that starts with the type of insurance you have.

Newport Beach Recovery Center works with most major insurance carriers. You can reach out to our admissions department and we’ll be happy to verify your benefits, what they will cover and your anticipated out-of-pocket costs.

Treatment is an investment in your health, your life and your future. While you can’t put a price on that, we also recognize that treatment needs to be within reason for our clients.

Get in Touch and Start Your Recovery Today

Your recovery begins with one simple phone call. If you decide that you are ready to commit to our Newport Beach drug rehab, you can expect personalized attention, extended treatment options and highly trained staff who will make long-term recovery a reality. Contact Newport Beach Recovery Center today to learn more.

As you begin your journey to recovery, the first step is to select the appropriate level of care for your addiction. Inpatient and outpatient rehab in Newport Beach are the two most common types of care. Together, with a qualified admissions team, you can choose which level of treatment to pursue.

It’s important to know that one type of rehab is not better than the other. The key is to choose a treatment program that will meet your needs and start you on the path to healing. Newport Beach Recovery Center offers inpatient, intensive outpatient and outpatient care. We can help you find the best solution for your personal situation.

Let’s dig deeper into the differences between an inpatient and outpatient program, as well as what to expect during your time in treatment.

A Closer Look at Inpatient Drug Rehab in Orange County

An inpatient program, also known as residential rehab, requires you to live at the facility. It’s a good option for individuals who have severe drug or alcohol problems, and especially for people who have a co-occurring mental health condition. If any issues arise, medical professionals and support staff are available 24/7.

The benefit to living at an inpatient facility is that it removes you from your everyday environment. People who battle addictions often live in environments that trigger their substance abuse. The only way to remove these temptations and influences is to stay at a residential facility.

The key benefits to choosing a residential treatment center in Newport Beach are:

• Around-the-clock support
• Improved structure and routine
• Comfortable, homelike setting
• Simultaneous treatment for mental health disorders
• Alcohol- and drug-free environment
• Access to a wider range of therapies
• Ongoing community and peer support

What Happens During Residential Treatment?

Agreeing to seek treatment from a residential program is a big step – and it’s a step in the RIGHT direction. Here is what you can expect a typical day to look like:

• Wake up early
• Eat breakfast and shower
• Participate in group therapy
• Do a physical activity/exercise
• Break for lunch
• Daily reflections/journaling/therapeutic art work
• Process and education groups
• Dinner
• Personal time
• Relaxation/bed

Outpatient Drug Treatment in Orange County

Outpatient treatment differs from inpatient treatment in the sense that clients do not reside at the facility. Depending on the program you’re in, you will meet three to five days a week for several hours a day. When you’re done with treatment for the day, you’ll return home to be with your family.

Because you’re not spending all of your time in treatment, you will have unstructured time. It’s important that you can manage your triggers and maintain a healthy routine. Also, you will not have 24-hour support, which means you’ll be relying on your friends and family to get you through your ups and downs.

With the flexibility that outpatient treatment offers, we recommend this program for those who have completed some treatment and are mentally stable. Clients can gradually transition back to their everyday lives while receiving ongoing support and therapy.

The benefits to choosing outpatient addiction treatment in Newport Beach are:

• Flexible and can adapt to your schedule
• Options to work a part-time job or be active in your community
• More time to build on the skills learned in therapy
• Less expensive compared to inpatient treatment
• Ongoing peer support

What Happens During Outpatient Treatment?

Newport Beach Recovery Center offers intensive outpatient and outpatient treatment. You’ll come to our facility three to five days a week for several hours a day. When you’re not in treatment, you will be out living your everyday life. It’s important that you have plenty of support at home. Some people choose to work part-time, though we recommend remaining fully committed to your recovery at first.

During outpatient treatment, your time will be split between:

• Group therapy
• Individual therapy
• Family therapy
• Relaxation strategies

Outpatient vs Residential: Is One Better than the Other?

No one type of addiction treatment in Newport Beach is better than the other. Both inpatient and outpatient treatment have their benefits, so you should consider them both in your search. However, it’s not about what sounds better or more convenient. Your treatment should match the severity of your addiction.

If you are not mentally stable and struggling with a severe, active addiction, you will likely need the support and structure of a residential program. On the other hand, if you are mentally and physically stable but transitioning to everyday life, you can get the extra support you need from an outpatient program.

Start Your Journey to Improved Health and Healing

Newport Beach Recovery Center is a luxury drug rehab in Newport Beach. We offer three levels of care – inpatient, intensive outpatient and outpatient – as well as medical detox services. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your unique needs and challenges.

Our treatment center is conveniently located in Orange County where we maintain a safe, supportive and sober environment. Contact our admissions department to learn more about starting your journey with us.

Treating addiction isn’t as straightforward and uncomplicated as simply kicking a dependency to a substance. The body being weaned off drugs or alcohol through detox is only the start. Working on the mind is where the real, lasting change happens and where the ability to stick to sobriety is developed.

Therefore, it’s integral in recovery to dig deep and work out the root causes of addiction through things like counseling and group therapy. To cultivate new ways of thinking and relating to situations.

But talking has its limitations as a means of expression, people sometimes aren’t necessarily comfortable verbalizing everything and that’s understandable. Given that, alternative therapies have not only grown in popularity over the years but have become integral aspects of rehab centers as a way to allow people to get their full range of emotions and thoughts out.

Art therapy is one of those alternatives and it can work wonders for people.

What Is Art Therapy?

The American Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as something which “engages the mind, body, and spirit in ways that are distinct from verbal articulation alone. Kinesthetic, sensory, perceptual, and symbolic opportunities invite alternative modes of receptive and expressive communication, which can circumvent the limitations of language. Visual and symbolic expression gives voice to experience and empowers individual, communal, and societal transformation.”

In other words, when it’s hard to use your words, art becomes an incredibly valuable and accessible conduit for expression.

It’s worth noting that having some high level of artistic skill isn’t a prerequisite here, you don’t need to be Picasso or DaVinci to get the benefits. The point is self-expression, not creating masterpieces to display at the Louvre.

Heck, art therapy isn’t even confined to just painting. Many types of art are used: sculpting, drawing, music, doodling, carving, finger painting, etc. you name it. 

How Is Art Therapy Used in Addiction Therapy?

Art therapy is of course just one piece of a larger treatment program so its use is in conjunction with other more traditional treatment methods like the aforementioned group therapy or one on one counseling.

In addition to being able to express things that are hard to say, participating in the creative process or experiencing existing art is used therapeutically to help people explore their emotions and develop a more fine-tuned sense of self-awareness.

Effects of Art Therapy on an Addict

The positive effects can be profound and wide-ranging for those recovering from addiction:

 

Self-Esteem

Creating something from nothing is a powerful motivator. The feelings of accomplishment are incredibly useful building blocks for enhancing self-esteem and regaining confidence in yourself.

Emotional Relief

Holding in thoughts and emotions for a lack of a way of getting them out is a painful burden to carry. Finding a means of expression through art therapy can relieve you of that weight.

Self-Discovery 

Like the emotional relief, the process of creation is inherently one of self-discovery. While looking within yourself, you very well may stumble on buried thoughts and feelings that the art allows you to work through.

Stress and Anxiety Relief 

Immersing yourself in the creative process naturally reduces stress and anxiety. Painting while stressed actually lowers feelings of stress and it’s been shown that music therapy, like movement to music, is associated with a decrease in anxiety, depression, anger, and stress.

Reach Out to Us Today at Newport Beach Recovery Center

The world of art therapy is in many ways a magical one. Tapping into the natural creativity we all possess to learn more about ourselves and strive towards getting better in the process is a profound complementary tool to traditional treatment programs. At Newport Beach Recovery Center, we’ve seen the transformative power ourselves and are huge advocates of it, get in touch with us and we’d be happy to give you more information on the benefits of art therapy.