Experiential therapy takes place outside the office. Whereas group and individual talk therapy sessions involve theory, this treatment encourages hands-on engagement. How does it work? Most importantly, how could it help your adolescent son at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®? To learn more about an experiential therapy program, call us today at 828.519.5047.
Defining Experiential Therapy
The teen therapy services NC endorses are those that incorporate a hands-on component, recognizing that adolescents don’t just learn through listening but by actively engaging in their environment. Adolescents thrive and expand their horizons in scenarios where they are encouraged to be hands-on.
This is why therapies like equine therapy, which involves working with horses, along with music and art therapy, which allow for creative expression, role-playing that enables them to walk in others’ shoes, and outdoor play that connects them with nature, are all vital examples of experiential therapy. These approaches facilitate growth, learning, and healing by making therapy a dynamic and engaging process that resonates with their youthful spirit and eagerness to explore.
What the Treatment Accomplishes
Therapists accompany participants or guide the activities. This therapy encourages the display of typical behavioral patterns. Besides that, it provides opportunities to use behaviors that adolescent boys are working on. Examples include:
- Mental flexibility
- Self-esteem
- Assertiveness
- Interpersonal skills
Experiential therapy begins after talk therapy has already started. Adolescent males will have several tools at that time. They will know how to identify emotions. Most importantly, they might recognize dysfunctional patterns.
Some may attempt to avoid certain situations, which helps the therapist to customize a care protocol. Others embrace the changes that they want to undergo, and they work on these traits. Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® specialists can then find supporting treatments to assist these program participants with reaching their goals.
Depending on the activity, there may also be a catharsis of sorts. Some adolescent males experience breakthroughs. They face negative emotions. Doing so allows therapists to work with them directly on expressing these feelings in healthy ways.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Experiential Therapy?
Program participants attend this therapy with a broad range of treatment needs. Examples include:
- Process addiction treatment that might revolve around video gaming
- Substance abuse intervention
- Disordered eating care for a variety of conditions
- Trauma treatment that might involve current or prior situations in the adolescent’s life
- Mental health care for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, or other conditions
Because hands-on care focuses on behavior modification, it’s ideal in these scenarios. Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® therapists offer it not only in group settings but also in individual therapy. Besides that, they gauge each adolescent male’s readiness to interact in a group. For some, this is a natural step.
Others need a little longer. There’s no reason to rush. In fact, it’s best that everyone proceeds at their own pace. Therefore, hands-on treatments allow for complete personalization.
What Program Participants Walk Away With
Therapeutic benefits are a significant aspect, and we have already discussed several of them. Beyond these, there exists a substantial opportunity for personal growth, an aspect often overlooked but equally important. This growth frequently occurs outside the conventional therapy setting, in the realm of personal experiences and activities.
For instance, consider a teenaged boy with a burgeoning interest in creative expression. This individual may find profound validation in engaging with creative activities, which can be a powerful form of self-therapy. This teen might then decide to explore new creative outlets at home, perhaps by writing, painting, or engaging in digital art, thereby nurturing a talent that was previously untapped.
Similarly, another person might stumble upon a new hobby that captures their interest and passion. They might decide to take up horseback riding, embrace the world of art, or even start learning a musical instrument. Such activities not only provide a sense of accomplishment but also contribute to personal growth and well-being.
Get Your Teen Son the Therapy He Needs at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®
Not everyone can administer this type of therapy. Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® ensures that clinicians have experience and licenses. Similarly, they underwent training for this treatment. Therefore, they feel comfortable with overseeing the various hands-on opportunities.
They can make program participants feel safe and comfortable. Besides that, they help those who hesitate to jump right in. Before long, this treatment option becomes fun and easily the favorite aspect of therapy for most. Learn more about experiential therapy, call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® today at 828.519.5047 or use our online contact form.
