Holistic Therapy

Recreational Therapy for Recovery

Recovery is about more than medical care or counseling—it’s about learning how to enjoy life again. Recreational Therapy uses movement, creativity, and play to help you relax, connect, and rebuild confidence. From yoga and meditation to music, art, and even board games, these activities are designed to improve both body and mind, giving you healthy ways to cope and rediscover joy in daily life.
These major organizations support Recreational Therapy:

What Is Recreational Therapy?

Recreational therapy blends physical activity, creative expression, and social connection to support recovery. It’s not just “something extra to do”—it’s an evidence-based approach that lowers stress, improves mood, and strengthens both physical and mental health.

At The Haven Detox, recreational therapy includes:
Feel Better Physically and Mentally

Gentle movement, balanced nutrition, and creative outlets help reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost mood. Many people notice they feel lighter, clearer, and more energized after just a few sessions.

Build Healthy Coping Tools

Recreational therapy teaches practical, repeatable skills—like using meditation before bed, taking a short walk during cravings, or channeling emotions through art or music. These tools are simple to practice in everyday life.

Strengthen Connection and Confidence

Social activities and group experiences build trust, encourage laughter, and remind you that recovery doesn’t mean losing fun—it means finding new ways to enjoy it. Each success builds confidence in your ability to handle challenges outside treatment.

How Recreational Therapy Works

Start with Your Needs

You’ll share what feels most important right now—better sleep, more energy, stress relief, or reconnecting with others. Your therapist or activity leader tailors your plan based on those goals.

Choose the Right Activity

Sessions may include yoga, meditation, guided fitness, music, art, or group games. You decide what feels comfortable, and there’s no pressure to perform—every activity is about support, not perfection.

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Practice in a Safe Space

Activities take place in calm, private environments—whether that’s a yoga room, gym, art studio, or group lounge. Staff are trained to adapt each activity to your pace and comfort level.

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Learn Real-Life Tools

Every activity has a takeaway: a breathing exercise you can use before bed, a stretching routine for stressful mornings, or a short playlist to manage cravings. These tools are meant to follow you home.

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Reflect and Adjust

After each session, you check in with staff about what felt helpful. Your plan is adjusted so you continue building skills that actually fit your life.

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Get Cost / Coverage Answers Upfront

Your information will be kept private

Our Recreational Therapy Staff

Recreational Therapy at The Haven Detox is led by licensed therapists, certified trainers, and creative specialists who understand recovery. Our staff includes yoga instructors, nutrition professionals, fitness trainers, and therapists trained in music and art therapy. Their goal is simple: to give you safe, encouraging ways to move, create, and connect—while coordinating with your larger treatment team so everything works together.

Joyce Gray

Yoga Instructor and Lead Client Care Liaison

Ellaine Peck

Art Therapist, ATR

Nina Cerviatti

Reiki Master

Conditions Recreational Therapy Can Help With

Recreational therapy supports a wide range of challenges that affect both body and mind.

Anxiety and Stress

Calming activities like yoga, meditation, and music therapy help regulate your nervous system and reduce tension.

Depression and Low Motivation

Addresses cravings and high-risk thinking patterns, teaching practical strategies to manage stress and avoid triggers without using.

Substance Use and Cravings

Physical activity and structured play offer safe alternatives to substance use, helping you manage urges and stay engaged.

Trauma and Emotional Regulation

Art, music, and guided movement provide safe ways to process emotions without overwhelming you, helping you feel more in control.

Sleep and Energy Issues

Nutrition guidance, gentle evening movement, and meditation techniques support better rest and improved daytime energy.

Spaces for Connection and Recovery

Recovery thrives in spaces that feel safe, welcoming, and engaging. At The Haven Detox, recreational therapy takes place in thoughtfully designed environments that encourage both relaxation and connection.

Bond with Fellow Peers
Spaces Just for Recreation

Relieve Stress with Physical Activity

Locations Offering Recreational Therapy

Recreational Therapy is available at all Haven Detox centers. Our facilities include on-site gyms, creative spaces for art and music, group lounges for games, and peaceful rooms for yoga and meditation. When you reach out, our team can help match you with the location that best supports your needs.
The Haven Detox sign at the addiction treatment center in Blackwood, New Jersey

The Haven Detox - New Jersey​

Space Available

Insurance Accepted

Recreational Therapy Offered

Exterior view of The Haven Detox treatment center in Worcester, Massachusetts

The Haven Detox - New England

Space Available

Insurance Accepted

Recreational Therapy Offered

Aerial view of The Haven Detox addiction treatment facility in Green Valley, Arizona

The Haven Detox - Arizona

Space Available

Insurance Accepted

Exterior of The Haven Detox in Little Rock, Arkansas – inpatient detox center

The Haven Detox - Little Rock

Space Available

Insurance Accepted

Outdoor seating area at The Haven Detox facility in West Memphis, Arkansas

The Haven Detox - West Memphis

Space Available

Insurance Accepted

Entrance to The Haven Detox treatment center in West Palm Beach, Florida

The Haven Detox - Florida

Space Available

Insurance Accepted

Recreational Therapy Success Stories

Real people who find healing through Recreational Therapy at The Haven Detox.

Carly T.

I have had such an incredible experience at the Haven. They especially do fun activities with clients/patients. Unforgettable leaders that have given me the tools I need to stay strong and sober.

Nicholas G.

The extracurricular activities, the group sessions, the housing, and the staff especially. The group sessions are run by some of the most intellectual therapists I have ever come across. So to come across a detox facility like The Haven that is truly genuine about their work is hard to come across opposed to other detoxes.

Nicole R.

The yoga instructor and also client care did amazing classes, and to be honest, she taught me some amazing coping strategies in yoga classes. This facility has been the best decision I’ve made in a long time. I will definitely be recommending you to my friends and family!
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Insurance Coverage for Recreational Therapy

Most insurance plans cover Recreational Therapy when it’s part of a licensed addiction or mental health program. At The Haven Detox, we’ll verify your benefits for free before you begin, so you know exactly what’s included. If you’re paying privately, flexible options are available to make care accessible.
100% Confidential

Frequently Asked Questions About Recreational Therapy

Do I need to be fit or creative to participate?

No. All activities are tailored to your comfort level—whether that’s gentle yoga, beginner art, or light fitness.

How often do sessions happen?

Frequency varies by program and level of care, but many people participate several times per week.

Is recreational therapy just “fun activities”?

No. While activities are enjoyable, they’re also therapeutic. Each one is designed to reduce stress, improve mood, and build coping tools for daily life.

Can I choose which activities to join?

Yes. You’ll work with staff to select activities that feel safe, comfortable, and useful to you.

How soon will I notice benefits?

Many people feel more relaxed or uplifted after the first few sessions. Over time, activities build into lasting habits that support long-term recovery.

Does insurance cover recreational therapy?

Most plans cover it as part of an integrated treatment program. Our admissions team can confirm coverage and out-of-pocket costs before you start.

Is recreational therapy evidence-based?

Yes. Recreational therapy is a recognized, evidence-based approach that has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and support recovery when used alongside traditional treatment methods.

How is recreational therapy different from regular activities?

The difference is guidance and purpose. Every session is structured by trained staff to target specific needs like stress relief, emotional expression, or social connection. It’s not just “keeping busy”—it’s therapy with clear benefits.

Can recreational therapy help if I’m in detox?

Yes. Activities are adapted for people in early recovery. That might mean gentle stretching, guided meditation, or light games that don’t overwhelm your body or mind. Everything is designed to fit your energy level and medical needs.

What if I don’t like group activities?

That’s okay. You can choose individual activities like yoga, art, or meditation. Group options like games are offered, but nothing is forced. Your comfort is the priority.

Do I need special skills or experience?

Not at all. You don’t need to be athletic, artistic, or “good” at anything. The point is to try safe, enjoyable activities that support your recovery, not to perform or achieve.

How does recreational therapy help with cravings?

Activities like walking, stretching, or even quick games give your body a healthy outlet and shift your focus. Over time, your brain learns to pair urges with new, positive responses.

Will recreational therapy replace counseling or medical care?

No. It works alongside counseling, group therapy, and medical treatment. Recreational therapy adds tools for everyday life, while your core care plan addresses the medical and emotional sides of recovery.

How long do the benefits last?

The skills you learn—like meditation, simple exercises, or creative outlets—are designed to last beyond treatment. Many people continue using these practices at home, work, and in their communities.

Can recreational therapy improve sleep?

Yes. Activities like evening yoga, meditation, and balanced nutrition can help your body relax and prepare for rest. Combined with consistent routines, they support deeper and more refreshing sleep.

Have Questions? Let’s Talk!

Call the free 24/7 helpline to get answers and a plan for treatment that’s best for your specific medical and insurance situation — even if it’s not with us.

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Need someone to talk to? We’re always here—day or night.

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Ask questions, get guidance—no pressure, no obligation.

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Your story stays with us. Confidential support, always.

Checking your insurance is private and without commitment.

There’s no catch. Checking your insurance is simply a way to see what your plan covers — it doesn’t lock you into treatment, notify anyone, or cost you anything. You get answers upfront to decide what makes sense for you.

Protecting your privacy matters! No information or notifications are ever sent to your employer or family — whether you check your insurance online or call. Everything is handled through secure, encrypted systems that meet strict medical privacy laws. You stay in control of your information! 

Luckily, most insurance policies cover treatment here. Depending on the healthcare you’ve already had this year, costs could even be zero. Instead of worrying, let’s just find out what your plan covers. 

Most likely. We work with major providers like Cigna, Aetna, and United Healthcare, public insurances like Tricare and tribal plans, and even smaller plans like Surest Bind and Harvard Pilgrim. The quickest way to know for sure is to check online or call. It’s a quick, private way to understand what is covered upfront.

Verifying your insurance isn’t a commitment to start treatment — it’s simply a way to see what your options are. Knowing your coverage ahead of time helps you make more informed, confident decisions. It also helps flag a spot, so you’re able to get right in if you ever do decide you’re ready.  

You need your policy number to check your specific policy online. If you want general information, just call.  You likely have questions beyond insurance anyway. Reaching out now helps you figure out the right fit if or when you’re ready. You don’t have to put off the call until you’re in crisis. Calling is not scary, I promise!

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