Sober livings are group homes for individuals recovering from substance abuse and/ or addiction. They are transitional residencies for individuals exiting a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program to move into prior to returning home. Sober livings offer substance-free environments, which are slightly less structured than inpatient substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment programs, as residents are often able to come and go as they please, provided they abide by the facility’s rules. By making the choice to move into a sober living residence, people are giving themselves the opportunity to further integrate the lessons learned during formal treatment into their life. Each sober living facility has its own set of house rules, expectations of its residents, amenities, fees, and requirements.
Music Therapy
The American Music Therapy Association explains music therapy as “the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.” Music therapy relies minimally on verbal communication, and instead places great emphasis on listening to and creating music as a form of therapy. Music therapy can be used to help an individual learn to positively and accurately address negative emotions.
According to American Addiction Centers, “music therapy can be useful in addressing triggers that often spark relapse in recovering individuals. These triggers include boredom, loneliness, stress and self-doubt.” Through utilizing music involvement in a therapeutic context, an individual recovering from substance abuse and/ or addiction is able to strengthen his or her sense of self by exploring emotions through a musical context. Music therapy can help to facilitate deep resolution that is not contingent upon one’s ability to articulate verbally, which can subsequently translate to other areas of the recovering individual’s life, creating a ripple effect of healing.
Music therapy can be used in conjunction with other therapeutic treatment modalities or on its own, during any stage of one’s recovery process. Music therapy sessions can be conducted in an individual or group setting. There many different ways people can help themselves maintain sobriety throughout their entire recovery process. Depending on the person, exposure to creative outlets and specialized modes of expressive arts therapy, including music therapy, can be integral to one’s prolonged success.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to substance abuse and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one.
