This textbook subchapter examines how the creative arts therapies are an important modality for addiction treatment. A valid argument can be made regarding art as an essential tool for effective healing, based in part upon a comprehensive review of current research. Unfortunately, due to inadequately educated staff many addiction programs are mislabeling arts and crafts projects as “creative arts psychotherapy.” This subchapter seeks to address this misnomer as well as the remarkable healing potential of art therapy when facilitated by certified professionals. The benefits and challenges of art therapy will be addressed in a preliminary fashion by providing a definition, case study overview, examples of art, an example each of the journal writing and poetry produced, and a subjective description of the impact of the creative and expressive arts via the client’s perceptions. These will be followed by a Haiku that foreshadowed the client’s success with long-term sobriety after treatment.
