Art & Music Therapy in Addiction Treatment
While evidence-based addiction treatment remains an effective way to help individuals achieve recovery, many of these programs will incorporate alternative therapies like art therapy and music therapy. Incorporating alternative therapies has become increasingly popular in SUD treatment, with many addiction specialists recognizing its beneficial holistic approach to treatment.1 Expressing yourself through art and music therapy for addiction can help you find healing when combined with a comprehensive treatment program. Read on to learn more about art and music therapy, its benefits, ways to pay for treatment, and how to find a program near you.
What is Art & Music Therapy?
Art and music therapy is a form of treatment that allows patients to find healing and recovery through artistic expression.1 This can encompass several forms of creative arts, such as dancing, songwriting, painting, drawing, or playing an instrument.1
Since the 1950s, mental health professionals have implemented art and music therapy to treat multiple behavioral disorders, including SUD.2 Therapists use creative arts in treatment to help you channel your inner feelings in a way you may not be able to with words.1
Art and music therapy in drug and alcohol rehab can offer a recovery-focused, individual approach that focuses on the mind, body, and soul.1 Addiction specialists use art and music therapy to give patients a way to tap into their emotions and motivate them to receive treatment. 2 Programs may integrate creating art or music into treatment or encourage art and music interpretation.2
Does Art and Music Therapy Help in Addiction Treatment?
Several treatment programs combine art and music therapy into care in different ways. Most rehabs use alternative therapies to complement traditional evidence-based approaches like behavioral and medication therapy.2 Some programs focus solely on alternative therapies.2 Since art and music therapy can be beneficial despite your background, creative expression gives patients another way to focus on recovery and gain sobriety.2
Art and music therapy can be used as a way to express yourself and relieve stress. Treatment in SUD programs can involve many activities, including creating an art journal, drawing/painting emotions, stress painting, and creating sculptures.2 Music therapy also has multiple forms in treatment, like lyric analysis, theater, songwriting, musical games, and music improvisation focused on emotions and relevant treatment topics.2
Benefits of Art and Music Therapy
Studies show multiple benefits of both art and music therapy for treating different mental illnesses and SUD. Many professionals suggest art therapy can increase self-esteem by helping you learn and master new abilities.1 Creating can also inspire patients and encourage strategic and execution skills.1 Art therapy can help you become self-sufficient and increase your ability to achieve your desired outcomes.1
Similar to art, research shows music therapy is related to positive emotional change.2 Activities like drumming can help with relaxation and movement to music is related to decreased anger, stress, anxiety, and depression.2 Both therapies have also been linked to increased motivation to participate in treatment.1
Does Insurance Cover Art & Music Therapy in Rehab?
Insurance companies may cover art and music therapy in treatment to some extent. The Affordable Care Act ensures health insurance plans provide coverage for the medically necessary treatment of mental health disorders and SUD.3 Your insurance could cover art or music therapy, depending on your specific plan. The level of coverage can vary, so it’s best to check with your insurance company about costs before choosing a program.
Find Art and Music Therapy Addiction Treatment Near You
Before exploring your options for rehabs that offer art or music therapy, it’s best to consult with your primary care physician or an addiction specialist. Since everyone is different, several levels of care are available for addiction treatment, including inpatient rehab and outpatient programs.4 Your doctor can offer an evaluation to assess your needs and create an individualized treatment plan.
Once you understand the best level of care for your situation, you can start searching for programs. A great place to start is the recovery.org directory. This tool offers a catalog of different treatment programs where you can tailor your search by type of treatment and location. The American Addiction Centers (AAC) helpline is another exceptional resource where you can get answers to your questions about addiction and art or music therapy, locate suitable rehab centers, and verify your insurance.