Expressive therapies (also called creative art therapies) are forms of mental health and substance abuse treatment that help patients express themselves through nonverbal, imaginative, and creative exercises. These activities may include drawing, painting, poetry, dance, or music [1].
These are considered “complementary and alternative medical practices,” which refers to non-mainstream mental health or substance abuse treatments. They are especially beneficial when paired with conventional, evidence-based treatments such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or Trauma Therapies such as EMDR.
Creative writing workshops can help patients in recovery organize their thoughts and express themselves in a creative, yet structured way. These may include poetry, journaling, and creative storytelling.
I was nervous coming here, but the staff made me feel welcome right away. The groups and support really helped me see I’m not alone in this. I’m leaving with hope and a plan for my life.
Emily O’Connor, Boston, MA
This place gave me my life back. I didn’t think anything could help, but the team here really cared. They taught me how to deal with tough days and not give up.
Michael Russo, Worcester, MA
When I came in, I was lost. Now I feel stronger, and I know what steps to take. The people here treated me like a person, not just a patient.
Patrick Donnelly, Cambridge, MA
