While some therapies, such as CBT and DBT, rely solely on talking with a therapist, experiential therapy goes the extra mile to immerse people in a range of activities that bring up difficult feelings and emotions. This type of therapy can help you become more self-aware and shift your unconscious core beliefs that lead to negative behaviors.
Experienced therapists use various techniques that allow patients to face and work through difficult situations while being supported by clinicians. These methods include role playing where the patient may act out different scenarios from their life and re-enact them in a safe space to understand how certain events have affected them negatively. The client can also do other artistic activities such as painting, music or drama to express themselves and connect with their emotions in a way that isn’t possible with just talking.
One of the most common forms of experiential therapy is psychodrama. In this technique, the therapist plays a character in a scenario that has been related to a past trauma or other underlying issue causing distress. This is done in a safe space and can be done more than once, as the goal is to work through negative emotions triggered by these past experiences.
Another experiential method is the use of guided imagery and visualization to help a client understand their emotions and body. This can be a powerful tool for those who are feeling isolated or disconnected with their emotions, as it helps them reconnect and feel safe again.
Many people who have gone through experiential therapy report increased self-acceptance, more trusting relationships with others (including a therapist), more awareness about their emotions throughout the day and better social interactions. However, it can be difficult to get through the process as you will inevitably be confronting difficult situations and memories that cause distress. This is why it’s important to be open with your therapist about how you are feeling and have trust in your therapist that they can support you.
While experiential therapy can be helpful for many people who are struggling with substance use disorders, it’s not a replacement for traditional talk therapy. It is often used in conjunction with other treatment methods such as medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, contact Harris House today to learn more about our comprehensive approach to drug and alcohol abuse treatment.
We specialize in helping people overcome the underlying issues that can impede their recovery. Our expert staff is here to guide you through the process and provide you with the best treatment options for your unique needs. Contact us today to begin your recovery journey.
