Alternative Therapies for Drug Rehab

The standard 12-step program for drug rehabilitation works for some people, but for others it is ineffective. Different people have different needs, but the traditional form of rehab is highly standardized. There is still hope for those who have found traditional drug rehab programs unhelpful in ending their addiction, however: alternative therapy. Alternative therapies vary widely, being based on the philosophy that an individual's needs may often be very different from those of another. Even so, such therapy can be categorized into a few main types.

Expressive Therapy

• Expressive therapies encompass all forms of treatment that involve the arts and the addict's expression of his or herself through them. Therapies utilizing drawing, painting, expressive writing, drama and music all fit under this category. Canine or equine-assisted therapy also is sometimes grouped together with other forms of expressive therapy, due to the similarities in their application. Expressive therapy works by allowing the addict to express their emotions in a creative and positive way, bringing them closer to overcoming their addiction.

Body Therapy

• The use of acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga, martial arts and nutritional means to overcome substance abuse can be categorized as body therapy. Such therapies counteract biophysical and biochemical imbalances in the body, eliminating cravings for substances and toxins from the body. An increasing number of residential treatment centers are making use of body therapy, due to its effectiveness in detoxification and recovery from addiction.

Recreational Therapy

• This type of therapy includes the use of rock climbing, surfing lessons, horseback riding, wilderness expeditions, trips to the beach and drug- and alcohol-free parties in recovery from substance addiction. Recreational therapy is particularly effective with teenage addicts, demonstrating to them that it is possible to have an exciting and fulfilling life outside of drugs. Such therapy also often includes support group meetings and the use of peer pressure to turn away from drug use, encouraging a sober social life and healthy interaction with peers.