How Experiential Therapy Helps Patients Recover from Drug and Alcohol

Addiction

No two people struggling with addiction have the same experiences. Each person is

unique, with different histories, family dynamics, strengths, and weaknesses. So it stands

to reason that addiction treatment shouldn't be a cookie cutter, one-size-fits-all process.

At Yellowstone Recovery, each person's treatment is individualized. Experiential therapy

is at the forefront of addiction treatment, offering affordable drug treatment and alcohol

recovery programs that are entirely different in their approach to these issues.

Treating the Physical Aspects of Addiction

The first few days of recovery are the most physically difficult. This one week to ten day

process involves the body adjusting to life without drugs or alcohol. During this detox

period, patients at Yellowstone Recovery aren't expected to delve into their "deeper

issues" or "face their past," but are allowed to go through the physical process of ridding

their bodies of chemicals so that they can focus on recovery with a clear mind and a

healthier body.i

Treating the Mental Aspects of Addiction

After the detox process is complete, experiential treatments can begin. This is the period

of primary care when the focus of treatment shifts from the body to the mind, where the

heart of all addictions lies. This 90-day residential treatment is completely different from

other, non-experiential programs. The key to successful recovery is learning to engage

the mind and body in positive activities to replace the time that addicts used to spend

finding and using drugs.ii

Experiential treatment isn't grueling or punishing, but fun! Using fresh therapies like

recreational therapy, artistic therapy, wilderness and adventure therapy, and role-playing

games, patients learn new skills and hobbies while delving deeper into the issues that led

to their addiction. This process also helps patients visualize and realize a future without

drugs and alcohol. Unbelievably, this incredibly fun, innovative program is one of the

most affordable drug treatment programs available!

Treating the Social Aspects of Addiction

Experiential therapy replaces healthy, supportive relationships with drugs and alcohol

through engaging activities. Through drawing, music, drama, camping, playing sports,

and other modes of play, patients learn how to socialize in a sober environment. These

peer groups become an important part of patients' lives, helping to build a stable social

environment to better foster a sober lifestyle.iii

The 90-day primary care period is also full of useful work, including individual therapy

sessions, group therapy sessions, and family group therapies. Unlike so many treatment

facilities, Yellowstone Recovery doesn't just dismiss patients after their 90 days and hope

for the best. Recovery is continually supported through outpatient treatments, including

experiential therapy like softball teams, camping adventures, and even animal outreach

programs. Former patients are encouraged to return, enjoy the social environment, and

offer some much-needed encouragement to addicts who are new to the recovery process.

Treating the Financial Aspects of Addiction

In addition to affordable drug treatment and alcohol recovery programs, Yellowstone

Recovery gives patients the tools to build a successful career, which is the cornerstone of

a productive, sober life. These tools include a job placement assistance program, wherein

Yellowstone partners with local businesses that are willing to better their communities by

hiring people out of the drug treatment program.

The program also includes training on resume writing, interview skills, how to use public

transportation systems, and some classes on basic work ethics knowledge. A good job

doesn't just offer financial support, it also encourages sobriety through regular drug

testing, gives the recovering addict something to occupy their time, and establishes them

within the community.

There is hope, no matter how serious the addiction seems at the moment. With the right

treatment and support -- including experiential therapies to help resolve buried issues that

lead to addiction -- patients can build active, healthy, productive lives, free of the pain

and social stigma associated with addiction.