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Art Therapy for Addiction Recovery in Portland, Maine
At Liberty Bay Recovery Center in Portland, Maine, art therapy gives you a creative way to heal and grow in recovery. Guided by licensed therapists, you’ll use art to explore emotions, manage stress, and strengthen self-awareness as part of a supportive treatment plan.
What Is Art Therapy?
Art therapy helps you explore feelings and experiences through creative expression. You might paint, draw, or make collages while guided by a licensed therapist. You don’t need to be artistic; the goal is expression, not perfection.
This process helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and build healthy coping skills for recovery.
How Art Supports Addiction Recovery
Art therapy gives you another way to heal when talking feels hard. It can reveal emotions, ease tension, and restore motivation.
At Liberty Bay, art therapy is part of our holistic care model that includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and trauma-focused counseling to support full recovery.
Benefits of Art Therapy in Recovery
- Encourages emotional release in a safe, supportive space
- Improves self-awareness and strengthens communication
- Supports trauma healing through gentle expression
- Reduces stress and anxiety during early recovery
- Promotes mindfulness and emotional balance
- Builds confidence and restores self-esteem
Why Choose Liberty Bay Recovery Center
Our care meets trusted national standards for quality, safety, and clinical excellence.
You’ll work with experienced nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and addiction counselors.
Art therapy works alongside yoga, meditation, and nutrition to support balanced recovery.
Enjoy chef-prepared meals, private baths, and gym access in a calm, supportive environment.
What to Expect
Art therapy sessions may involve painting, collage, or guided imagery. You’ll explore topics such as identity, stress, and emotional growth. Sessions take place individually or in small groups, allowing time for reflection and optional sharing.
Your therapist helps you connect insights from art sessions to daily recovery goals, improving emotional regulation, communication, and self-understanding. This integration strengthens both personal growth and relapse prevention.
Who Can Benefit From Art Therapy?
Art therapy supports anyone recovering from substance use or co-occurring mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. It may be especially helpful if:
- Talking about emotions feels difficult
- You’ve experienced loss, grief, or trauma
- You want to rebuild trust and self-expression
- You seek a calm, grounding activity during treatment
No artistic background is required. What matters is your openness to explore and reflect creatively.
Holistic Healing at Liberty Bay Recovery
At Liberty Bay, art therapy is one of several holistic options designed to support your overall well-being. Other therapies include yoga, meditation, and fitness sessions. These methods work together to promote balance across the mind, body, and spirit.
Every program is guided by compassionate professionals who understand recovery. Located in the heart of Portland, our center provides a peaceful setting with comfortable rooms and a welcoming community that encourages healing.
Our Success Stories
Brian Cahill
5.0/5.0 rating
Kathy Ruiz
5.0/5.0 rating
Aubrey Gillis
5.0/5.0 rating
Joyce Trawick
5.0/5.0 rating
Most Insurance Accepted
Give us a call on (855) 607-8758 or verify insurance and we’ll confirm for you.
Take the First Step Toward Healing Through Art
Creative expression can be a powerful bridge to recovery. If you or someone you love is ready to begin, call Liberty Bay Recovery Center in Portland today at 855.607.8758 or verify your insurance to get started. Healing begins when you allow yourself to create.
FAQs
What happens during art therapy for addiction recovery?
You’ll create art with guidance from a licensed therapist. Activities may include drawing, painting, or collage. The goal is to express feelings, reduce stress, and explore what’s behind your thoughts and behaviors.
Do I need to be good at art to join?
No. Art therapy isn’t about talent. It’s about using creative tools to express emotions that are hard to put into words.
How does art therapy help with recovery?
It provides a safe outlet for emotions that may contribute to addiction. Creating art helps calm the mind, build self-esteem, and remind you that healing is possible.
Is art therapy proven to work?
Yes. Studies and organizations like SAMHSA recognize creative therapy as a beneficial part of mental health and addiction treatment. It can reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional distress when combined with clinical care.
Can I do art therapy if I’m in outpatient care?
Yes. Liberty Bay offers art therapy within its PHP and IOP programs. You can continue healing creatively while maintaining your daily routine.
What is a typical art therapy session like?
You’ll meet with a therapist, use art materials, and reflect on what your artwork represents. Each session feels calm, private, and focused on your personal growth.
