Experiential Therapy and Recovery
Common Rehabilitation Practices •
Most traditional therapeutic approaches for drug and alcohol rehabilitation are based on intensive “talk therapy.”
•
However, acquiring the level of trust and candidness needed to build a solid rapport takes time and may not be possible within a brief recovery program.
•
Experiential therapy takes a whole other approach, bypassing this process entirely, and instead focusing on observing the patient in the way they behave and react in various circumstances.
The Experiential Therapy Difference •
The basis of experiential therapy is to utilize more action, movement, and activity-based therapy sessions to gain insight into everyday behaviors, reactions, and responses.
•
This type of therapy expedites personal growth and recovery by: – Examining personal relationships – Identifying negative emotional triggers – Instigating catharsis – Initiating self-discovery – Promoting self-awareness
Evolution of Experiential Therapy
•
Developed in the 1970s, the purpose of experiential therapy is to identify and address veiled or suppressed issues with guided imagery, physical activities, and role playing.
•
The most vital component of experiential therapy is to find activities that can contribute to a healthy and productive lifestyle.
The Benefits •
The experiences and activities provide therapists observational insight into the way patients handle situations, in an environment where the patients are not focused on the therapy itself.
•
Patients receive invaluable support under realistic circumstances, which they can easily translate to their daily lives.
•
Experiential therapy offers sober extracurricular activities to reinforce clean living.
Experiential Therapy Activities •
Experiential therapy is a general term which refers to multiple types of therapeutic activities. Specific activities can include: – Music – Art – Yoga – Camping – Wildness exploration and adventure – Sports – Animal interaction
Why Choose Yellowstone Recovery Center •
Surrounding yourself with the beautiful landscape of Orange County provides a safe and serene atmosphere that fosters recovery.
•
Affordable care to eliminate financial barriers: – Competitive Pricing – Financing – PPO Insurance Acceptance – Complete Continuum of Care
•
Specific experiential therapies offered: – Sober Softball, Puppy Therapy, Sober Camping Trips, Skydiving, Art Therapy
Program Services •
Comprehensive services include: – Counseling • Group • Individual – Recreational Support: • Sober Softball Team • Sober Fellowship • Puppy Therapy – Support Meetings: • 12-Step • Weekly Family Group – Affordable Court Liaison – Job Placement Assistance
Treatment Program •
Detoxification: initiate and maintain physical recovery from drug and alcohol use.
•
Residential Treatment - Primary Care: introduction to addiction counseling and the 12-step program.
•
Residential Treatment - Extended Care: guided support for patients to exhibit self-reliance, including an effort to find a program-conducive job.
•
Outpatient Treatment: attending treatment groups and continuing individual therapy sessions.
•
Sober Living: effective integration of a sober lifestyle and real life situations, including practical support resources.
Contact Yellowstone Recovery
•
For over 17 years, Yellowstone Recovery has provided hope for those wanting to embrace sober living, by offering a multitude of programs, enhanced by experiential therapies.
•
For more information, visit www.yellowstonerecovery.com or call 1-888-897-1455.
Sources • http://www.yellowstonerecovery.com/progra m-curriculum/experiential-therapy.aspx • http://www.counsellingdirectory.org.uk/counsellor-articles/what-isexperiential-therapy-and-how-does-it-helpchange-to-occur