Mentions of music being used as a tool for healing can be found throughout the history of humankind. In more recent years, music therapy has become widely regarded as an effective treatment for numerous mental health issues. It has shown to be a powerful therapy for people in recovery. A musical therapist uses clinical, evidence-based treatments to help reduce stress, manage emotions, enhance motivation, and encourage communication.
The music therapy program at Westwind Recovery® offers clients a creative outlet that enhances their overall healing. To find out more about how music therapy can help with addiction, contact us at 855.340.8832.
The Benefits of Music in Addiction Recovery
Dopamine is naturally stimulated by music, which is a large part of why music makes us feel good. Music therapy involves both listening to and actively making music. Westwind Recovery® offers clients who choose the music therapy program as part of their overall treatment plan a hands-on experience in all aspects of music, from writing lyrics to recording on studio-level recording equipment. Some of the benefits to music therapy for addiction include:
- Promotes self-expression and self-awareness
- Reduces stress and encourages relaxation
- Helps alleviate anxiety and depression
- Fosters communication
- Helps prevent boredom
- Enhances interpersonal connections
- Improves coping mechanisms
While music therapy alone cannot cure addiction, it can be highly effective as part of a comprehensive addiction treatment program. For music therapy to benefit your recovery, all you need is to enjoy music and have a willingness to be open to its therapeutic qualities. A music therapy program brings an element of fun into the recovery process, and most clients look forward to it as a time to let go and enjoy themselves.
Researchers studying the efficacy of music therapy suggest that its impact is far-reaching, including improving overall physical well-being, increasing motivation and engagement in treatment, and providing an outlet for the expression of feelings.
What to Expect in a Music Therapy Program
At Westwind Recovery®, the music therapy program is part of our holistic approach to addiction treatment to treat the mind, body, and spirit. We understand the importance of having a creative outlet for the thoughts and feelings that are brought to light in the process of recovery. Music therapy is for everyone, no matter their level of musical ability.
Music is a powerful medium that can evoke strong emotions, focus your attention, uncover memories, and enhance communication. In addition to listening to music, some of the activities in the music therapy program include:
- Learning to play an instrument
- Writing lyrics and music
- Reading music
- Dancing
- Playing various instruments
- Discussing the emotions triggered by music
- Recording your own songs
The ways to approach music therapy are as unique as each individual. As is the case with all therapy, with music therapy, you will get out of it what you put into it. Whether you are suffering from addiction, substance use disorder, or mental health issues, a music therapy program can be an effective part of your recovery. The skills you acquire in a music therapy program will benefit you in treatment and throughout your journey to lifelong sobriety.
Explore Music Therapy at Westwind Recovery®
Westwind Recovery® offers a number of holistic therapies to supplement our evidence-based addiction treatment programs. Along with a music therapy program, we offer adventure therapy, art therapy, yoga, meditation, nutrition, and life skills. At Westwind Recovery®, clients can expect private, individualized, resort-style treatment. Respect and dignity are cornerstones of all of our treatment programs.
Recovery from addiction begins with the decision to seek treatment. If you have made that decision, contact Westwind Recovery® online or by calling 855.340.8832 to learn how we can help.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
