From Darkness to Light: Art Therapy for Homeless Women with Co-occurring Opioid Use Disorder

Abstract

This paper discusses the importance of art therapy for homeless women with opioid addiction. It details the importance of aspects such as mindfulness-based relapse prevention, art therapy and mindfulness, spirituality, shame reduction and anxiety reduction. The therapeutic approaches that art therapy consists of allow for women to comprehend their mental illness and better be able to understand their addictive nature. The author being an artist and one who understands family dynamics of addiction provides the reader the ability to recognize how appropriate steps are necessary for preventative measures and maintaining stability.