Experiential Therapy

Modern therapy for addiction typically takes an active approach that engages you directly in the recovery process. This approach is often carried out in a format that resembles traditional psychotherapy. But increasingly, addiction specialists make use of something known as experiential therapy. This therapy uses immersive activity to engage you on a physical level. In so doing, it can provide you with benefits not available through talk-based means. Today’s holistic treatment programs may offer a range of experiential options.

At Tree House Recovery, we specialize in experiential therapy. Every day, we use this therapy as part of a larger approach to effective addiction care. We’re committed to providing you with the best in holistic recovery support.

Purpose of an Experiential Therapy Program

People affected by addiction tend to experience an increase in negative emotions. Emotions of this type get their name because they can potentially degrade your mental and physical health. They include such things as:

• Sadness
• Hatred
• Guilt
• Shame
• Fear

A daily outlook rooted in these kinds of feelings can reinforce the effects of addiction. Unfortunately, addiction can make it harder for you to recognize or understand your emotional state. Even traditional talk therapy might not help you gain a clearer perspective.

That’s where experiential therapy comes in. Therapies of this type use nonverbal methods to help you access your emotions. They also help you communicate those emotions to yourself and others. As a result, they may help eliminate some of your underlying motivations for substance abuse.

Wilderness Therapy Programs and Adventure Therapy Programs

Adventure therapy and wilderness therapy are two of the most widely used experiential options. In an adventure therapy program, you take part in challenging outdoor activities, such as:

• Hiking
• Kayaking
• Rafting
• Backpacking
• Camping

Under the guidance of a trained therapist, these activities can help promote emotional healing. They can also help you increase your self-esteem and feelings of positivity.

Wilderness therapy programs are examples of one form of adventure therapy. These programs typically take place over multiple days in remote settings. They also tend to feature small group sizes.

Other Types of Experiential Therapy Programs

There are also a variety of other kinds of experiential therapy programs. Common examples include art therapy, music therapy, and dance therapy. They also include play therapy, psychodrama, and equine therapy. Each of these options relies on its own specific methods. However, they all share the ultimate goal of promoting greater emotional awareness and wellness.

Additional Benefits of Experiential Therapy

Experiential therapy is holistic. As a result, it can do more than help you recover from the direct effects of addiction. In addition, it can help you deal with some underlying issues common to people with substance problems. Such issues include a history of serious trauma exposure. They also include chronic exposure to pain or stress.

In addition, the therapy can be used to help you develop healthy coping skills for mental health conditions. This is important for people in addiction treatment. Why? About half of all people with substance problems also have a separate mental health condition. You need additional help to overcome these combined issues. Experiential therapy can provide some of that help.

Turn to Tree House Recovery for an Experiential Therapy Program in North Carolina

Experiential therapy takes a holistic approach to addiction recovery. Not only can it help you regain your sobriety. It can also address certain additional problems common to people affected by addiction.

Need an experiential therapy program in North Carolina? Tree House Recovery is here for you. We rely on multiple forms of this therapy to create a customized, holistic path to recovery. To find out more, just call us today at 910.812.1728. We’re also available through our online message form.