Addiction Treatment Centers that use Experiential Therapy

Exclusive Hawaii Rehab Addiction Treatment December 22, 2021

Addiction Treatment Centers that use Experiential Therapy

What is Experiential Therapy?

Experiential therapy in addiction treatment is an umbrella term for any therapeutic treatment that involves different types of experiences, including interactions with others, creativity, emotional processing, and reflections on the past that go beyond the traditional talk therapy modality.

It is a difficult term to define, as over time many different people have included their own definitions, from dynamic or cognitive behavioral therapies to alternative forms of therapy. Overall, if the therapy involves the patient becoming involved in a process of interaction or creation that allows them to develop insight into their own inner thoughts and experiences, it can be considered experiential therapy.

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Lecture-Free Addiction Treatment

Addiction treatment comes in many forms, and for a lot of people out there, sitting in a classroom and being lectured to is not a positive experience. Being outdoors, or engaging in hands-on learning and doing is a better way for many to process emotions, thoughts, and trauma. Experiential therapy can assist in the development of insight and realization, helping patients better understand their inner selves, their nature and find proactive ways to address issues.

Experiential Therapies Used in Addiction Treatment

Some of the different types of experiential therapies that are used in addiction treatment may include experiences like:

  • Nature immersion therapy: from taking a walk in the forest to spending time at the beach, patients can benefit from grounding themselves in nature
  • Adventure therapy: this can include activities like zip-lining, outdoor expeditions, and other challenging games and activities
  • Animal-assisted therapy: animal visits, interactions, and care are proven methods in helping patients reduce stress
  • Surf therapy: patients can take the time to listen to the rhythms of the surf as they contemplate life and gain a new perspective on things
  • Journaling, literary, and poetry therapy: the written word can help patients achieve personal growth
  • Music therapy: music can be used in a multitude of ways to create positive experiences
  • Drama therapy: acting out a personal story or interacting with others through drama
  • Art therapy: creating through sculpture, painting, and other processes can engage the brain, helping develop awareness and reduce negative feelings
  • Massage therapy: the body holds tension and stress in many ways, and therapies such as massage can help patients release more than just physical pain

Why Go to an Addiction Treatment Center That Uses Experiential Therapy

Addiction treatment centers that use experiential therapy can make a world of difference to a patient’s individual treatment outcome. Adventure therapies can encourage patients to develop trust and learn problem-solving skills, which are useful in fostering a long-lasting recovery.

Many people who are experiencing addiction or have substance use issues may have difficulty expressing themselves and interacting with others in traditional one-on-one or group talk therapy scenarios. Using creativity, animals, and outdoor experiences can take the pressure off, while encouraging interactions.

Experiential therapy in addiction treatments is an excellent addition to any traditional treatment plan for substance use disorders, as long as the patient is of an appropriate age for the treatment and is in good physical and mental health. Patients must also give consent and the treatment must be tailored to them, as there are people who are afraid of animals who would have a negative experience with animal-assisted therapies, and somebody with a height phobia would not have fun zip lining.

Exclusive Hawaii Rehab center is an addiction treatment center in Hawaii that uses experiential therapy in tandem with a variety of well-established and cutting-edge healing methods, from cognitive behavioral therapy to acupuncture to traditional Hawaiian treatments. To learn more about the experiential therapies available at our luxury rehab clinic, contact us today. Our experiential therapy options will get you outdoors, help you develop insight through exploration, and engage your creative side.

Experience True Healing

Our deeply-caring staff and the surrounding natural beauty offer an unparalleled healing experience.