Lakeview Health combines surfing with clinical therapy in the latest unexpected and innovative move to treat drug and alcohol addiction
Jacksonville, FL (PRWEB) January 27, 2015 -- Addiction treatment center Lakeview Health has announced a new and unique treatment available to patients of its rapidly expanding Jacksonville campus. Master’s-level clinicians are working with patients in this pilot program to help them better process basic recovery fundamentals in an environment that is more open and experientially focused. Experiential treatments such as equine therapy, music therapy, and yoga have increasingly become popular with addiction centers nationwide, and surf therapy may provide new and unexpected ways for clinicians to increase rates of recovery.
“Surf therapy is an alternative therapy which provides a unique way for patients to metaphorically connect themes experienced in the ocean to addiction and recovery,” explained Jamie Stevens, VP of Program Services. “Surf therapy also is an exciting way to activate various emotions that potentially could be internal relapse triggers and develop new healthy coping skills.”
Addiction can often strip individuals of self-worth and rebuilding confidence cannot always be learned within group therapy scenarios. That is why exposing individuals to new experiences, such as surfing, pushes patients outside of their comfort zone and encourages connection with something bigger then themselves. Often considered a spiritual experience, surfing opens patients to a broader sense of purpose and helps them identify with nature.
“Surfing is a disciplined activity that encourages people to clear their mind and learn how to be at one with their surroundings,” continued Stevens. “Many parallels and metaphors are drawn between surfing and recovery. For instance, when learning to balance on a board we explore the self-positioning against the elements to stay upright. Similarly when working a program of recovery, patients need to create a life in balance with their recovery, overcome the challenges that can emerge and remember to celebrate the daily achievement of living one day at a time.”
About Lakeview Health
Lakeview Health is a nationally recognized addiction treatment facility located in Jacksonville, Florida. Since its founding in 2001, Lakeview has helped countless individuals and families across the country begin their journey of recovery. Our committed staff is dedicated to helping our clients and their families find their "True North."
Gina de Peralta Thorne, MS, Lakeview Health, http://www.lakeviewhealth.com, +1 (904) 899-4536, [email protected]
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